The 2011 Honda Pilot derives its power from a 3.5-liter V6, which delivers 250 horsepower. It comes mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission. The 2-wheel-drive Pilot provides 3,500 pounds of towing capability, while the 4-wheel-drive version can haul up to 4,500 lbs.
Safety is not overlooked in the Pilot. Honda contends the frame has more high-grade steel than any other vehicle it builds. Coupled with standard front and side curtain airbags, the Pilot has garnered several safety accolades. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the Pilot its "Top Safety Pick" and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the Pilot its highest safety rating of five stars for both front and side impact collisions.
The entry-level LX style is only available with standard factory equipment. However, the standard equipment list is a lengthy one, and includes front and rear power disc brakes, remote entry, power windows and locks, hidden storage well in the cargo area and lift-up glass hatch on the tailgate, standard on the LX and the EX.
The mid-level EX adds available power front seats with heated leather trim. Also, drivers will enjoy the large power moonroof with a diffuser to minimize exterior noise while it is open. The EX also is available with a selection of upgraded stereos, as well as a rear seat entertainment system, which includes a DVD player complemented with a 512-watt, 10-speaker stereo. To further appease rear passengers, the EX also provides a tri-zone climate control system with humidity control and air-filtration.
The top end Touring style provides a level of customization that should keep most drivers happy, and it adds equipment that is unique to this class. Front seat memory, as well as heated exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals, are both standard. Also, the liftgate is powered and can be opened at the touch of a button, and rear passengers now get a standard rear seat entertainment system. Most appealing, however, is the addition of the voice-activated Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with integrated rearview camera, which is standard on the Pilot Touring class and now optional on the EX-L.
Popular standalone options include 18-inch alloy wheels, various sporting equipment racks, lighted running boards, aluminum exterior trim, fog lights, wood interior trim, back-up sensors, remote start and Bluetooth hands-free connectivity.
Following a complete 2009 redesign, the Honda Pilot receives no major changes for 2011. Voice-activated navigation is now optional equipment on the Pilot EX-L, and rear seat entertainment is now standard on the Touring.
Honda is recognized for the quality of its design and engineering, and the 2011 Pilot is no exception. However, the true value and strength of the Honda Pilot is its roomy interior, which features seating for up to eight passengers. The Pilot's 87.0 cubic feet of cargo space make it great for hauling too.
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