2009 Honda Pilot - Review

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Enlarge PhotoAnyone familiar with the driving dynamics of a fleet-operated 15-passenger van is familiar with those of the Pilot - it drives bigger than it is, though it parks surprisingly easily. It stops well, and without requiring tremendous force on the brake pedal. During sudden maneuvers it feels safe and composed, though it certainly won’t win any performance awards. Push the Pilot hard, and you’ll expose a number of nagging handling traits like understeer and tremendous body roll - both typical of SUVs and large crossovers.

The one remaining detraction of the petrol V6 is its lack of efficiency in this application - our around-town average frequently slumped into the lower teens and rarely climbed above 20mpg (11.8L/100km) even on the open highway.

Efficiency concerns aside, the Pilot is adept at its most likely purpose - which is replacing a minivan with a somewhat less obtrusively repugnant form of transport. The low ride height combined with the tall seating position makes for a truck-like driving position with a car-like entry and exit. That combination will likely appeal to many people, since that’s precisely what a crossover is supposed to provide - the best of both SUV and sedan worlds for people that view cars more as tools or necessities than as objects of lust, adoration or extreme performance.

But if the Pilot is treated like it’s supposed to be treated - that is, as a very large car with seating for eight (in some configurations) and room for the dogs, some gear or a month’s worth of groceries - then most will find its suspension is well-tuned and that it’s perfectly outfitted with a capable but uninspiring powerplant. Even with all eight on board, the vehicle boasts a class-leading 20.8 cubic feet of rear storage space, including a 2.8-cubic-foot concealed underfloor bin. Those figures rise to 47.7/87.0 cubic feet with one or both back rows folded.