2003 Honda Pilot Review

Honda is late to the party with a mid-size sport-utility vehicle of its own design. But its new Pilot model is above-average in most respects--partly because it's based on the popular MDX sport-ute from Honda's luxury Acura division. The all-wheel-drive Pilot replaces the Honda Passport, which was just a retrimmed version of the aging Isuzu Rodeo, which is more trucklike than the Pilot. The Pilot and MDX have different styling, with the MDX looking much slicker. But they share major features such as the engine, transmission and basic chassis. A Pilot owner thus gets a far more sophisticated vehicle than the Passport--and one that could pass for a luxury sport-ute in EX form with leather upholstery.

The base Pilot LX model lists at $26,900, while the higher-line EX is $29,270 and has such features as automatic climate control, power driver seat, cassette and remote keyless entry. Add leather upholstery and such items as a navigation system and DVD player and you've got the best-equipped EX, which costs $32,520. Even the LX is well-equipped, with such items as air conditioning, cruise control, AM/FM/CD player and power windows, locks and mirrors. Safety items for all Pilot models include front side air bags, traction control and anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brake distribution for surer panic stops.

The Pilot has firm but comfortable bucket seats up front and split-folding second- and third-row seats. It's wider than some rival sport-utes and provides room for eight occupants. But the third-row seat area is rather hard to reach and is best suited to children because there isn't much leg room back there. However, even third-row occupants have four cupholders because the Pilot has lots of convenience and storage features.

There also isn't much cargo space with the third seat in its normal position; figure on space for eight paper grocery bags or a set of golf clubs. But cargo room is good with second- and third-throw seats folded forward to form a flat deck. The lack of a separate-opening tailgate glass area can be inconvenient. But there is a shallow floor well with a lid behind the third seat that can store had restraints or objects you want hidden from view.

The big outside door handles are easily gripped, although it calls for more effort to get into the rather high Pilot than, say, the rival Toyota Highlander sport-utility. The quiet interior has easily read gauges and smooth, nicely located controls. Sound system controls are a little small, but are put high on the dashboard. The nicely crafted console has a deep storage bin, cell phone pocket, 12-volt auxiliary power outlet and a dual-cupholder unit that can be put into two positions and is removable for easier cleaning. Netted map pockets are in the forward sides of the console. Options include a DVD entertainment system.

The Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter overhead-camshaft V-6. It generates 240 horsepower and provides good off-the-line punch and 65-75 mph passing times. The smooth engine loafs at 2,000 rpm at 70 mph and allows a 0-60 run in just 8.5 seconds--but is noisy during hard acceleration. The Pilot delivers an estimated 17 mpg in the city and 22 on the highway. But one can't expect a powerful mid-size sport-utility that weighs from 4,416 to 4,439 pounds to be much more economical. The V-6 works with a five-speed automatic transmission, which is more responsive than a typical four-speed unit. Upshifts are smooth, and downshifts are commendably quick. However, gear selection can be tricky. For instance, it's easy to put the steering-column-mounted shifter into the "D3'' position instead of the "D'' spot for the regular "drive'' gear.

The Pilot generally has a carlike personality and a supple ride, with softer spring rates than the MDX. But rough roads let you know that you're in a truck. For example, the Pilot's suspension doesn't absorb large potholes or washboard surfaces as would a large car. The innovative all-wheel-drive system works seamlessly and spends its time in front-drive mode except during acceleration or when there is wheel slippage. The Pilot handles well during routine driving, with a wide track enhancing stability. But it doesn't have sporty moves when pushed, despite quick steering. The brakes work well, but the pedal should have a more linear action. The solidly built Pilot should be a success. It's roomy, versatile, refined and comfortable. And it's got the respected Honda nameplate.

2003 HONDA PILOT

Prices:
$26,900-$32,520
Likes:
Roomy. Refined. Fast.
Dislikes:
Engine noisy during hard acceleration. Marginal fuel economy. Tight third-seat legroom.