2017 Honda Pilot: Versatile and Reliable

With seating for up to eight people and five trim levels, the 2017 Honda Pilot is one of the more versatile mid-size SUVs on the market. 
The Pilot was fully revamped last year to bring it more in line with the look of its smaller sibling vehicle, the CR-V compact SUV. The lower front area has black underbody trim and the headlight clusters and front grille form somewhat of a triangular shape. Optional equipment includes front fog lights, LED headlights, roof rails, 20-inch alloy wheels, a power liftgate and panoramic moonroof. 
The Pilot's trim levels are the LX, EX, EX-L, Touring and Elite.
The standard engine is a 3.5-liter V-6 that makes 280 horsepower and is linked to a six-speed automatic transmission. The Touring and Elite models come with a nine-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive optional. For better fuel economy, the engine operates with cylinder deactivation, and the Touring and Elite models have start/stop engine capability to boost efficiency. 
Fuel economy is rated at 18 mpg city, 26 highway with all-wheel drive and 20 and 27 with front-wheel drive.
The interior is comfortable and functional. The second row of seats comes as either a bench or two captain’s chairs. The bench can be easily folded down with the touch of a button to provide more cargo space. The third row seating is more compact, but still is suitable for children. 
Optional features in the EX model include HondaLink infotainment with Pandora internet radio, an extra USB port, HomeLink remote, an upgraded eight-inch display screen and tri-zone automatic climate control. Other optional amenities include heated/ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, navigation, acoustic glass for a quieter cabin, Blu-ray rear entertainment system and remote engine start. 
Safety technology on the Pilot includes LaneWatch and Honda Sensing, which provides a collision avoidance braking system, front crash warnings, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. 
The Pilot starts at around $31,000 and ranges to just shy of $49,000.
For a versatile, high-quality vehicle that is dependable, the Pilot is a great choice.