New Car Review of the 2004 Honda Pilot Mid-Size SUV.
Description: Mid-Size SUV
Base MSRP Range: $27,100 - $32,870
Invoice Price Range: Â $24,383 -Â $29,568
Honda's mid-size SUV has a tall stance for clearing off-road obstacles and a 4WD system works constantly but automatically to maintain traction on pavement or dirt.
It delivers plenty of muscle, thanks to the aluminum V6 powerplant. With single overhead camshaft and four valves in every cylinder, the advanced engine displaces 3.5 liters and uses Honda's remarkable VTEC (variable value timing and lift electronic control) valvetrain to precisely manage engine breathing and combustion in order to maximize horsepower and disperse the torque across a broad band. It produces a hardy 240 hp.
Cabin capacity extends to eight seats in an arrangement with twin buckets on the first row, a bench for three on the second row and a third bench that holds three children. Benches on rows two and three split 60/40 to vary the layout as seatbacks fold flat. With all seats down, the broad, long and tall compartment provides up to 90 cubic feet of cargo space. Safety equipment includes both front and side air bags, shoulder belts and headrests at every seat position, and child seat anchors on the second row.
Pilot comes in two well-equipped versions of LX and EX. The LX stocks air conditioning, power for windows and door locks and mirrors, cruise control, and a stereo audio system with CD deck. EX adds automatic climate controls, eight-way driver's seat, alloy wheels, roof rails and a fold-down activity tray for kids. New features for EX-L (the L indicates leather upholstery added) are heated seats and heated side mirrors, plus new body colors like Evergreen Pearl and Midnight Blue Metallic.
