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The 2009 Honda Pilot has a very distinct, boxy style, not unlike the Dodge Nitro
SUV. You could almost say that it is a macho vehicle, given its lack of exterior
curves. Once you step inside the Pilot, you will be impressed by the roomy
interior. This version is slightly taller and wider than the 2008 version, which
means that it can seat a maximum of eight people, but six is a better number as
far as comfort is concerned. A person sitting in the middle row gets the
advantage of a 28 mm increase in leg room, while passengers sitting in the third
row will appreciate the additional 48 mm.
The Pilot's cargo capacity is also bigger in the 2009 update. Buyers will have
20 cubic feet of space if the third row of seats is in place. If the third row
of seats is dropped, you get just under 48 cubic feet, and taking out the second
row of seats means that you will have 87 cubic feet to work with. In addition,
you can open the rear window while leaving the tailgate closed, which means that
transporting building materials is a lot easier than with other types of
vehicles.
Adjust your steering wheel by using the tilt and telescoping adjustment
function. The audio system is a good one and the Pilot's navigation system is
easy to use. Designers have chosen to use a fair amount of plastic in the
interior, which might not appeal to the consumer who expected more of an upgrade
when they are looking to buy an SUV.
Powering the Pilot is a 3.5 L V6 engine. It provides 250 hp, which means that
you will be able to pull up to 4,500 lbs. The five-speed automatic transmission
includes a feature called Grade Logic, which puts the vehicle in a lower gear
when going up hills and helps with braking on the way down the other side. On a
smooth piece of highway, the Variable Cylinder Management feature kicks in to
shut down a couple of cylinders automatically.
This ability to adapt to different driving conditions means that buyers of this
SUV will get a break on their fuel consumption rates. On the highway, you will
be looking at getting 23 mpg and 17 mpg for city driving. The MSRP for the 2009
Honda Pilot is set at between $36,820 and $49,920.
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