2008 Honda Pilot Review discusses one of the most popular crossover vehicles.

Friday, March 19, 2010

2008 Honda Pilot Review

The Pilot is a midsize crossover that debuted in 2003. Combining a car-based platform with uni-body construction, the Pilot is one of only a few of its kind capable of (light) off-road use. It was updated in 2006 with a new interior, along with new safety features and a mild exterior update. It's won several awards, including Car and Driver's "Best Larger SUV" from 2002 until 2007.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

Although it's getting on in years, the Honda Pilot is still one of the best midsize CUVs you can buy. It's one of the only vehicles in its class with true off-road capabilities and its safety is unparalleled. While there are newer, younger models with more features, the Pilot is a solid choice, especially in terms of quality and resale value.

What's New For 2008:

Two trims debut for 2008: Value Package and Special Edition. The Value Package takes the place of the LX in the lineup. The Special Edition is based on the EX, but adds a DVD player, power outlet and moonroof.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Pilot 3.5 stars for mechanical quality, 2.5 stars for design quality, and 3 stars for performance and design. Problems with the Pilot include failing blowers, oil leaks, rough pedal action, timing belt issues, skipping wheels and faulty occupant sensors. It's been recalled four times for overheating transmissions, weak fuel tanks and improperly assembled steering columns. Expect average to above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Pilot earned perfect government and IIHS crash test scores. It's been selected as one of the IIHS' "Top Safety Picks" of 2008. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags and stability and traction control come standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Spacious
+ Unrivaled safety
+ Off-road capability

Cons
- Pricey in its class
- Relatively sluggish handling
- Aging design

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Hyundai Santa Fe Limited costs about the same as the Value Package, but includes leather seats. The Nissan Pathfinder S includes a third row, 4WD, and 20 more hp, but lacks side airbags and a CD changer. The Toyota Highlander has nearly 30 more hp and more carrying capacity, but lacks a CD changer.

What Others Are Saying:

"I like the Pilot LX's more utilitarian shape and features. I also like the fact that I can get it several thousand dollars cheaper than the MDX (or the leather-clad Pilot EX-L). The respected IntelliChoice car buying guide rates the Pilot the best overall value for mid-size SUVs. Automotive Lease Guide rates it as the SUV having the highest retained or residual value. Though operating any automobile - especially an SUV - is not an inexpensive proposition these days, the Pilot seems to represent excellent overall value." - About.com

"It took a freak late-April snow storm (that dumped some 12" of celestial dander on the family homestead) to save the Pilot from being deemed family-friendly all-wheel-drive Novocain. As it turns out, when the weather is at its worst, the Pilot is at its best. When others white-knuckle away the miles, Pilot pilots can neatly skirt downed tree branches and confidently negotiate reasonable turns of speed on unplowed interstates." - The Truth About Cars

"It's got plenty of room and a reasonable price, but the best thing about the midsize Pilot is that it's made by Honda." - Forbes

Read more about the 2008 Honda Pilot at the Honda manufacturer web site.

Published on Thursday, January 24, 2008 - Email to a friend

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