2012 Honda Pilot: Video Road Test and Review

The Honda Pilot of a four door seven passenger SUV that combines the Japanese automaker’s proven reliability normally found in their small cars with a much larger, more versatile package.  Honda offers the Pilot in four distinct trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L and Touring, each available in either two or four wheel drive configurations.  Powered by a 3.5 Liter i-VTEC V6 that makes 250 HP and 253 lb-ft of torque, 2WD Pilot’s get an estimated 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway, while the 4WD models are only one MPG behind in each category.

The $28,470/$30,070 (2WD/4WD) entry level LX rides on a set of 17 inch wheels and receives the basic passenger protection in the form of a three row side curtain airbags to protect all occupants.  The next step up it the EX, which goes for $31,320/$32,920 and includes upgrades like a set of 18 inch wheels and body color side moldings on the outside, as well as Bluetooth hands free connectivity, a power adjustable driver’s seat and a seven speaker stereo that includes a subwoofer.

With the $34,570/$36,170 Pilot EX-L, the Japanese automaker adds a touch of refinement to the sport utility with a one touch tilt and slide power moon roof as well as a power tailgate.  Inside there is an 8 inch display with rear view camera, XM Satellite radio, a USB port and leather.  The Rear Entertainment System option adds a DVD player and 115 Volt electric outlet located in the center console bringing the total up to $36,170/$37,770.  While the Satellite Linked Navigation package equipped Pilot EX-Ls will set new car shoppers back $36,570/$38,170, but brings with it voice recognition, a high resolution multi function display, a premium audio system with a hard disk drive containing 15 GB of audio storage capacity.

The top of the line $39,220/$40,820 Touring models come with side mirrors that have integrated turn signals and a chrome strip along the top of the side moldings, a more adjustable driver’s seat and every other option that went in to the other Pilots.

A list of cars similar to the Pilot includes the 2012 Chevrolet Traverse, 2012 Ford Explorer and 2012 Toyota Highlander.

See more details about the 2012 Honda Pilot.