Call them the big box SUVs — those haulers that clog the Costco lots on weekends and school drop-off lanes on weekdays. This year, the boxiest of those sheds its edges for a more refined look, and Honda hopes that in doing so, the 2016 Pilot finds some new driveways.
The Pilot has long been one of the most popular three-row SUVs,
although until last month it was outsold by the Honda Odyssey minivan, and it trails the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander. Massive by Honda standards, the Pilot grows slightly for 2016, but Honda says it cut some 300 lbs. from the new SUVs frame in the name of efficiency. While the engine choices is limited to an updated version of Honda's 3.5-liter V-6 — the only mill Honda has large enough to move the Pilot — it can now come paired with a 9-speed automatic, along with the standard 6-speed. Honda didn't reveal power or efficiency specs, only promising top grades among competitors in both.
It's doubtful anyone has ever purchased a Pilot based on its engine output. People who own three-row SUVs want to haul many small passengers or occasional large cargo with a minimum of drama and a maximum of comfort. On those counts, Honda offers a slate of improvements; the step-in height drops an inch, the second-row seats fold easier, and there's now up to five USB ports sprinked around the cabin. There's no sign of the built-in vacuum Honda offers with the Odyssey, but Honda says the Pilot can now carry an 82-quart cooler with the third-row seats up. Think of it as the ultimate cupholder.
No comments:
Post a Comment