11-09-2005
The versatile and popular Honda Pilot sets a new standard in the 8-passenger mid-size SUV segment for 2006 with more features and significant enhancements to the interior and exterior, along with the addition of two-wheel-drive (2WD) versions with Variable Cylinder Management(TM) (VCM(TM)) engine technology.
The 2006 Pilot exterior becomes more expressive with new designs for the grille, hood, fenders, headlights, bumpers and tail lights that accent the "Honda Truck" family appearance. In addition, EX trim levels receive fog lights, and both EX and LX trim levels feature sporty, new alloy wheel designs. Inside, new styling and features include a new instrument panel design, seat fabrics and an adjustable headrest. Available features now include the latest Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation
System(TM) with Voice Recognition and a 7-inch screen, a Honda DVD Entertainment System with a 9-inch screen and a 115 Volt accessory outlet. A rear-view camera is standard on vehicles with the navigation system.
The 2006 Honda Pilot is available in an all-new two-wheel-drive version featuring a 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine with VCM. Equipped with advanced valvetrain technology that can deactivate three of the engine's six cylinders during cruising and deceleration, VCM enhances fuel efficiency and provides seamless operation between three- and six-cylinder operation modes.
Pilots equipped with 2WD and VCM achieve an EPA-rated city/highway fuel economy of 18/24 mpg, compared to 17/22 mpg for models equipped with 4WD and conventional VTEC. This is the first-ever application of VCM technology in a Honda SUV - the Honda Odyssey and Accord Hybrid also utilize VCM. Vehicles equipped with VCM include Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Honda's Active Control Engine Mount (ACM) system. The ANC and ACM systems work in cooperation to cancel both noise and vibration that could occur in relation to the cylinder deactivation process.
As part of Honda's "Safety for Everyone" initiative, all trim levels of the Pilot include Three-Row Side Curtain Airbags as standard equipment. This further compliments the vehicle's existing standard Driver's and Front Passenger's Airbags (SRS), Driver's and Front Passenger's Side Air Bags and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA).
The Pilot LX, available in either 2WD or 4WD, comes equipped with a long list of standard comfort and convenience items including remote keyless entry, power windows with auto-up/down driver's window, dual power mirrors, adjustable steering column, front and rear air conditioning with air-filtration system, AM/FM/CD 4-speaker audio system, cruise control, multi-function center console with cell phone cradle, painted alloy wheels, body colored side molding and Immobilizer Theft Deterrent System.
The full-featured Pilot EX, available in either 2WD or 4WD, builds on the LX features and adds synchronized automatic climate control, rear privacy glass, a 6-speaker audio system, a 6-disc in-dash CD player, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, body-colored side mirrors and door handles, machined alloy wheels, roof rails, fog lights and the HomeLink(R) Remote System.
In addition to the EX features, the Pilot EX-L adds leather trimmed seating surfaces in all three rows, a power moonroof, a conversation mirror with sunglasses holder and a rearview mirror with compass (non-navigation models). Pilot EX-L models are available with a new Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System featuring a larger 9-inch video screen, integrated remote control, wireless headphones with Personal Surround Sound technology and a 115-Volt power outlet in the center console. Or, EX-L models can be equipped with the latest generation of Honda's Satellite-Linked Navigation System with expanded Voice Recognition capabilities and exclusive features like Zagat Survey(R) restaurant guide information.
The Pilot interior offers room for eight passengers (two front, three middle, three rear) with an adaptable seating system that can transform the second and third rows into cargo areas along a 60/40 split in the bench-style seats that fold into the floor. Family-friendly storage areas and beverage holders are featured in all three rows of seating. World-class fit and finish, a new more sophisticated interior design and dynamic exterior styling elevates the Pilot to a new standard in the mid-size SUV segment. Like all Honda products, the Pilot has world-class ergonomics with controls that are intuitive and easy to operate. New noise dampening materials have also been applied to make this the quietest Pilot ever.
Powertrain technology for the 2006 Pilot includes a 3.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine with VCM technology on 2WD models, and a 3.5-liter SOHC VTEC engine on 4WD models. Drive-by-Wire(TM) throttle control is standard on all models, and the Pilot's standard 5-speed automatic transmission features a direct control shift system for smoother gear changes.
Both the VTEC and i-VTEC engines produce 244 horsepower and 240 lb.-ft. of torque (SAE net, revised 8/04)*. The Pilot utilizes an independent front and rear suspension and a rigid body structure to help deliver top-of-class ride and handling performance that also helps to minimize cabin noise and road vibrations.
The Pilot is manufactured at two locations in North America using domestic and globally-sourced parts: Honda Manufacturing of Alabama in Lincoln, Alabama, and Honda Canada Manufacturing in Alliston, Ontario.
Text and photos courtesy of Honda
