2010 Honda Pilot ~ Cars Planet

2010 Honda Pilot

The 2010 Honda Pilot ranks 12 out of 23 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 31 published reviews and test drives of the Honda Pilot, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Though it received a major redesign in 2009, the Honda Pilot still can't compete with top rivals. Its strengths are a spacious third-row seat, lots of storage cubbies and a powerful engine, but it misses the mark when it comes to interior quality and braking performance.

With a starting price of nearly $28,000, the eight-passenger Honda Pilot isn’t the most expensive or the most affordable SUV in its class. Likewise, its base fuel economy rating (17/23 mpg city/highway) is about average. So what differentiates the Pilot from the large pack of midsize SUVs? Not much, according to test drivers.

“Honda's sterling reputation will likely clinch plenty of Pilot sales, but we think discerning consumers who test-drive the competition will find that the Pilot is a surprisingly lackluster effort from the illustrious Japanese.

Along with its spacious third row and excellent safety scores, the Pilot boasts a powerful V6 engine and impressive towing capacity. It comes with seating for eight, which is impressive since most three-row SUVs seat only seven. However, those strengths may not be enough to make up for the Pilot’s weaknesses. These include longer-than-average braking distances, poor-quality interior materials and confusing dashboard controls.

The Pilot sees no major changes for 2010. The 2011 model is also expected to remain unchanged, although it will add Honda’s Satellite-Linked Navigation System as an option for the EX-L model (a feature previously exclusive to the Touring model).

The Pilot comes in several trims, the base LX, EX, EX-L and luxurious Touring. Though front-wheel drive is standard, it's available in all-wheel drive. Be sure to check for current Honda deals that may be available on a new Pilot.

Source:-usnews.rankingsandreviews.com