How do you improve upon a vehicle that's won the large SUV category in Car and Driver's "5Best Trucks" competition for the past four years?

2006 Honda Pilot

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2006 Honda Pilot
  • Horsepower: 244@5750
  • Torque: 4500

The 2006 Honda Pilot now comes in 2WD and 4WD models, both with an advanced 3.5-liter, 24-valve, V-6 engine that pumps out 244 horses. They've added advanced safety features, such as three-row side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) with traction control. On the inside you'll find the Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System with a new 9" screen and 115-volt power outlet, available on EX-L models.

Exterior

From front to back, the newly redesigned Pilot commands a presence. The new grille, sculpted hood and fenders dominate the front view, while the clear taillight lenses and a redesigned rear roofline spoiler add an even sportier look to the rear. Large wheel cutouts accommodate new alloy wheels (LX, EX), and body-colored body side molding and door handles (EX) make for a fluid look. Its aerodynamic design enables the Pilot to slip through the wind, improving performance and fuel efficiency with every mile.

Interior

Climb inside the 8-passenger Pilot and you'll find loads of convenient, functional features. The available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition and off-road tracking ensures that you'll find your way there and back, while the available Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System with a new 9-inch screen will keep your passengers happy along the way. And there's even a place to keep everyone's stuff, with storage pockets on each door, beverage holders in all three rows and, on EX models, a second-row fold-down activity tray.

The enivironment-friendly SUV

The old adage "Take only pictures, leave only memories" is well known to most nature-loving Pilot owners. As an Ultra-Low-Emission Vehicle, the Pilot takes that sentiment one step further by supplying enough power to get you and your fellow trail-blazers out to appreciate nature, while leaving fewer emissions behind. Now that's a good trail buddy.

The Pilot makes any path you choose into a fun ride. The 3.5-liter V-6 engine supplies 244 hp and 240 lb.-ft. of torque; and models with 2WD can tow up to 3,500 lbs., while models with 4WD can handle up to 4,500 lbs. The Programmed Fuel Injection and direct ignition system also enhances efficiency and power.

Technology

Powertrain technology for the 2006 Pilot includes a 3.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine with VCM technology on 2WD models, and a 3.5-liter SOHC VTEC engine on 4WD models. Drive-by-Wire(TM) throttle control is standard on all models, and the Pilot's standard 5-speed automatic transmission features a direct control shift system for smoother gear changes.

Both the VTEC and i-VTEC engines produce 244 horsepower and 240 lb.-ft. of torque (SAE net, revised 8/04)*.  The Pilot utilizes an independent front and rear suspension and a rigid body structure to help deliver top-of-class ride and handling performance that also helps to minimize cabin noise and road vibrations.