2011 Honda Pilot Review

One of the originators of the crossover SUV segment, the Honda Pilot continues blending its own road sophistication and off-road capabilities for 2011. With room for eight people, standard V6 power and available four-wheel drive, the Pilot has the attractive attributes of a family-oriented SUV.

New for this year, the purchaser of the Pilot EX-L model can choose the navigation system which had been previously only available on the top trim touring model. The 250 horse V6 uses variable cylinder management and a five-speed automatic to net fuel economy of 17 mpg city and 23 highway for a front wheel drive model and one mpg less for Pilots with four-wheel-drive.

The VTM-4 system as Honda refers to it is a full time four-wheel drive system that directs power to the wheels with the most traction and comes with the lock mode which will keep sun power to the rear wheels if the Pilot gets stuck. Towing maximum of a four-wheel drive Pilot is 4500 pounds. With 18 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and excellent use of passenger space, the Pilot offers comfort in any seat. Available in four model choices, a base Pilot LX two-wheel drive stickers for $28,825.00 including destination while a four-wheel drive touring model with navi and rear entertainment system rises to $41,175.00

For Drive Time on Yahoo! Autos, I'm Steve Hammes.