3.5 inches bigger and 300 pounds lighter than the current model, the third-gen Pilot adopts a more streamlined look that borrows styling cues from the smaller CR-V. The Pilot’s front end gains swept-back headlights, a three-slat radiator grille and a more sculpted hood. The crossover’s overall silhouette is a lot less boxy, and its back end is characterized by boomerang-shaped tail lamps that create a less utilitarian look.
Inside, Honda’s biggest crossover continues to offer space for up to eight passengers. The Pilot gains clean, modern-looking dashboard dominated by an eight-inch touch screen that runs a new Android-based infotainment system and a strip of black trim. Notably, the outgoing model’s bulky console-mounted shift lever has been replaced by a series of switches located on the center console and a digital speedometer replaces the old Pilot’s analog unit.
The Pilot can be ordered with a number of high-end features including with a Blu-ray player, a nine-inch rear-seat entertainment system, leather-upholstery and a panoramic sunroof, a first in the nameplate’s history. Additionally, buyers can replace the second-row bench with individual seats at an extra cost.
Power for the new Pilot comes from a 3.5-liter V6 engine that features cylinder deactivation technology. A six-speed automatic transmission comes standard, and Honda’s first-ever nine-speed automatic unit is available as an option. Buyers can choose between front- and all-wheel drive.
Performance and fuel economy figures will be published at a later date.
The new Pilot will be available with a long list of electronic driving aids including LaneWatch display, Blind Spot Indicators, a standard Multi-Angle Rear View Camera, and available Collision Mitigation Braking System and Honda’s new Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) system.
Penned at Honda’s Los Angeles design studio and developed in Raymond, Ohio, the 2016 Honda Pilot will be built in Lincoln, Alabama.
Live images by Brian Williams.
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