Honda Pilot
A DARK HORSE HAS ARRIVED

By Popong Andolong
Motoring Editor

JUST when we all thought that the market was already brimming with all the SUVs it could possibly offer, Honda sprang a surprise by bringing in its entry in the large SUV segment—the Honda Pilot.

The vehicle has been around for quite some time in the US but it was only recently that Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) lobbied its headquarters in Japan for the allocation of several units for the country in a move that brings to mind a similar gambit that HCPI’s sly deputy head for marketing Arnel Doria masterfully played in 1997, when he argued strongly for the CR-V’s introduction into the Philippines. We all know how well the sales of the CR-V turned out in the years that followed and, as they say, the rest is now history.
Will the Pilot establish the same kind of dominance that the CR-V enjoyed in its heyday?  Only time will tell, but if a recent test drive is anything to go by, this writer won’t be surprised if buyers start knocking on the doors of Honda dealerships soon.

On paper, the Pilot shows respectable credentials: large enough to seat eight people, powered by a 3.5-liter 24-valve V6 the cranks out maximum power of 247 ps at 5,600 rpm and maximum torque 33.2 kg-m at 4,500, a five-speed automatic transmission with grade logic control, drive-by-wire throttle, cruise control, dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags and front side-impact airbags with occupant position sensing on the passenger side, three-row curtain air bags with sensors that prevent them from deploying if an occupant is a child or if a passenger is not centered in any of the seats, 16-inch alloy wheels, 235/70 tires, 16-inch front disc brakes, 16-inch rear drum-in-disc brakes, ABS, EBD, a Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) traction control program and full-time four-wheel drivetrain that can be deactivated through a switch on the dashboard.      

When switched on (the default setting), the vehicle’s Variable Torque Management 4-Wheel Drive (VTM-4) system monitors the amount of traction on each wheel. When the Pilot traverses a slippery surface, the system automatically distributes power to the wheel or wheels that have the most traction, thereby minimizing spin on the wheels that don’t have it.

Upon seeing the Pilot for the first time, this writer immediately noticed its sheer size, which gives it a slight edge over its rivals in the emerging “crossover” segment where the Nissan Murano and Ford Explorer also belong.  “Massive” is an apt description for its dimensions.

“Conservative” also comes to mind given the no-nonsense styling of the vehicle’s fascia.  From the front quarter or sides, however, “muscular” becomes a proper adjective as the wheel arches come into view.

Stepping into the cabin reinforces everything that one has come to expect in every Honda.  The fit and finish is first-rate, and the styling is simple and functional. The only concession to extravagance is the fine leather used on the seats and panels, synchronized front and rear automatic climate control, a power driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar support, an outside temperature indicator, 2-din six-disc in-dash stereo connected to six speakers with subwoofers and steering wheel audio controls.

360-degree visibility is ensured by the excellent seating geometry—a big plus considering that the Pilot’s width requires a lot more attention than usual when going through narrow streets or parking in tight spots—while all buttons and switches are within easy reach of the driver.  One slight problem encountered during the test is the column shift lever, which has a strange feel to it and is located right next to the windshield wipers. It takes some effort before getting used to the layout which makes it easy to mistake the wiper lever for the gearshift stick.

The center console features a sliding cover that opens to a compartment, as well as a flip-out cell-phone holder with a power outlet. Unfortunately, when you have to whip out your phone, it gets in the way of the two cup holders located a bit forward of the contraption.
Aside from the above, cup holders are also located next to every seat and there are pockets on the back of the two front seats.

As mentioned earlier, the Pilot can seat up to eight with the front- and second-row seats capable of accommodating adults. The third-row, however, seems more suitable for children.

In terms of cargo capacity, the Pilot is among the best in its class. Both rear rows fold flat or can be split 60/40. The second-row seat folds away easily via a single lever and drops the seat flush to the floor.

On the road, the 3.5-liter V6 engine easily moves propel vehicle forward without any hesitation. Its wide power band and flat torque coupled to its drive-by-wire provides instant response accompanied by a subtle growl from under the hood.

The transmission delivers smooth shifts without any gear hunting, while the grade logic feature allows it to adapt quickly to any gradient.

Steering feedback is good regardless of what speed the vehicle is traveling at and the effort is light even when turning the wheel from lock to lock at a full stop.

According to Honda, the Pilot features monocoque body that has been reinforced with a frame much like a truck, giving it strength without sacrificing ride comfort. Although the vehicle is more at home hauling people and cargo on the pavement, Honda says the Pilot is capable of “medium” duty on gravel trails.

Ride comfort and noise insulation are as good as any, however, the Pilot has a slight tendency to roll during hard cornering, which is normal for a vehicle of its size and design. 
Its weight also requires the driver to brake a little earlier than usual as it seems to take a little more time to slow the vehicle from high speed.

Surely, this is one SUV worth watching out for.

Thumbs up

Spacious interior
Ride comfort
Smooth and silent
Excellent torque and power

Thumbs down

Position of gearshift and wiper levers
Position of flip-out cell phone holder

Specifications

Type: SUV
Engine type: 3.5-liter, 24-valve, V6 SOHC VTEC, gasoline
Maximum power: 247 ps at 5,600 rpm
Maximum torque: 33.2 kg-m at 4,500 rpm
Transmission: Five-speed automatic with grade logic control system and VTM-4

Dimensions

Length: 4774 mm
Width: 1969 mm
Height: 1821 mm
Wheelbase: 2700 mm
Front track: 1685 mm
Rear track: 1690 mm
Ground clearance: 200 mm
Wheel size: 16"
Tire size: 235/70R16
Price as tested: P2.6 million