Improved fuel economy and performance
Last year's 3.5-litre SOHC i-VTEC V6 continues to power the pilot however it now delivers more punch and improved efficiency. Output is up six horsepower to 250 @ 5,700 rpm. Torque has risen notably from 240 pound-feet @ 4,500 rpm to 253 @ 4,800 rpm.
Honda's Advanced Variable Cylinder Management technology (Advanced-VCM) has been improved for 2009. It now enables the engine to deactivate a wider range of cylinders depending on power needs. The net result is improved fuel economy and better driveability.
The '09 four-wheel-drive (4WD) Pilot is rated at 13.1 and 9.1 L/100K city and highway driving respectively. (The 2WD Pilot fares slightly better). It's worth noting that regular fuel is the chosen elixir.
Behind the wheel
Since its inception I've road tested a Pilot every year, and every year I find many reasons to laud this desirably conservative offering but 2009 has changed that. From sighting the restyled Pilot to climbing behind its wheel, I sensed an intention to convey greater strength- manning-up Honda's SUV so to speak.
The 2009 Pilot's Variable Torque Management 4WD (VTM-4) system is unchanged from last year. I've previously challenged this technology in heavy snow and found it highly effective. Torque is delivered where needed, split front-to-rear depending on traction availability.
Large side mirrors provide excellent visibility while the Pilot's elevated driving position enables a clear view of the road ahead. The front perches are superbly supportive. I did notice that legroom for tall drivers is on the skimpy side. Those eclipsing 6-feet may want to confirm that sufficient lower limb stretch-space exists.
Last year's 3.5-litre SOHC i-VTEC V6 continues to power the pilot however it now delivers more punch and improved efficiency. Output is up six horsepower to 250 @ 5,700 rpm. Torque has risen notably from 240 pound-feet @ 4,500 rpm to 253 @ 4,800 rpm.
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| The 2009 Pilot performs admirably in the passing lane and on steep ascents. |
Honda's Advanced Variable Cylinder Management technology (Advanced-VCM) has been improved for 2009. It now enables the engine to deactivate a wider range of cylinders depending on power needs. The net result is improved fuel economy and better driveability.
The '09 four-wheel-drive (4WD) Pilot is rated at 13.1 and 9.1 L/100K city and highway driving respectively. (The 2WD Pilot fares slightly better). It's worth noting that regular fuel is the chosen elixir.
Behind the wheel
Since its inception I've road tested a Pilot every year, and every year I find many reasons to laud this desirably conservative offering but 2009 has changed that. From sighting the restyled Pilot to climbing behind its wheel, I sensed an intention to convey greater strength- manning-up Honda's SUV so to speak.
The 2009 Pilot's Variable Torque Management 4WD (VTM-4) system is unchanged from last year. I've previously challenged this technology in heavy snow and found it highly effective. Torque is delivered where needed, split front-to-rear depending on traction availability.
Large side mirrors provide excellent visibility while the Pilot's elevated driving position enables a clear view of the road ahead. The front perches are superbly supportive. I did notice that legroom for tall drivers is on the skimpy side. Those eclipsing 6-feet may want to confirm that sufficient lower limb stretch-space exists.
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| Where functional improvement has been made, is in the location of the automatic transmission shift lever. |