The all-new, completely-redesigned 2009 Honda Pilot is set to debut at dealerships nationwide on May 22 with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price(i) (MSRP) starting at $27,595, plus destination and handling, for the well-equipped Pilot LX -- the same as the 2008 model's price entry point.

The upscale Pilot EX starts at $30,395 and adds alloy wheels and an upgraded audio system; the Pilot EX-L, equipped with additional premium features including leather-trimmed seating surfaces and a moonroof, starts at $33,595; and the luxury-oriented Pilot Touring edition, an entirely new premium trim level for 2009 with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation(ii) System(TM) as standard equipment, starts at $36,795. Pilots equipped with the available Variable Torque Management(R) 4-wheel-drive (VTM-4(R)) system have an MSRP starting at $29,195 for the Pilot LX; $31,995 for the Pilot EX; $35,195 for the Pilot EX-L; and $38,395 for the Pilot Touring.

New standard engineering features on all models include a more-powerful, 250 horsepower, 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine with the latest generation of Variable Cylinder Management(TM) (VCM(R)) that works in 6-cylinder mode for performance and 3- or 4-cylinder mode for fuel efficiency. Additional new standard equipment includes a Class III hitch, hill start assist, larger 17-inch wheels and tires (+1-inch) and a lift-up glass hatch as part of the tailgate. New interior features include a telescopic steering column, enhanced audio systems and much more. The Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System(TM) is available on the Pilot EX-L and Pilot Touring. The new Pilot Touring edition introduces upscale features that include a power tailgate, Bluetooth(R) HandsFreeLink(R) and a USB audio interface. Keyless entry, power windows, power locks and cruise control are standard on all models.

The Pilot achieves an EPA-estimated(iii) city/highway/combined fuel economy of 17/23/19 miles per gallon on two-wheel-drive models and 16/22/18 miles per gallon on four-wheel-drive models. The available, fully-automatic VTM-4 four-wheel drive is designed to deliver decision-free operation for all-weather traction and medium-duty off-road capabilities.