Honda's venerable Pilot mid-size SUV is getting a nice little refresh for 2012. Among other things, the first noticeable change is a more refreshing and luxurious front end refresh with the original tough-look grille replaced with three chrome slats. Honda says that the refresh of the 2012 Pilot will make it the most fuel-efficient third-row 8-passenger mid-size SUV on the market today. How Honda is achieving this will be something to look forward to, although expect typical Honda-style fuel-economy efficiencies such as low-rolling resistance tires and low aero body panels. The interior has also been refreshed with upgraded navigation and audio systems, a welcome upgrade as current Honda models are being outdated with technology advancements. But the big welcome news is that the old 5-speed automatic transmission is being phased out for Honda's new 6-speed automatic transmission, directly sourced from the Acura MDX and the better news is that the tranny will be available on ALL of its models. Perhaps Honda's decision to include this on the base Pilot model is a sign that it could offer the 6-speed transmission on all of its Odyssey models come 2012. Comfort and convenience features will be bolstered and additional features will be added to the base 2012 Pilot LX trim level, think of the extra features that the 2011 Odyssey LX trim level received this year compared to the 2010 Odyssey LX. Wheel designs are also revised including the Touring wheel design and a new set of colors will be introduced. Look for this model to be in dealership lots by September 2011.
HONDA PRESS RELEASE:
The 2012 Honda Pilot embraces a new, more refined look, improves its comfort and convenience features, and is designed to deliver the highest EPA fuel economy available in a three-row, 8-passenger SUV, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced on July 25, 2011. The substantially updated model will go on sale in September 2011.
