(continued from above)
As with the prior model year, the 2012 Honda Pilot is available in four model
choices (Pilot LX, EX, EX-L and Touring), and each is offered in either
2-wheel-drive or 4-wheel-drive configuration.
The new styling for the
front fascia, with its three-bar chrome-style grille, conveys a more
sophisticated crossover SUV appearance. Interior styling changes focus on
instrument panel refinement and a more intuitive button layout. For 2012, audio
system upgrades on Pilot EX and EX-L models include a 2 GB CD-Library (CD-L) and
Bluetooth Audio Streaming, along with the addition of Bluetooth HandsFreeLink to
those trim levels.
Feature upgrades on the Pilot EX-L include the
addition of a full-color 8-inch intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID)
for audio and vehicle information. Models equipped with the available Honda
Satellite-Linked Navigation System for 2012 receive subscription-free FM
Traffic, 15 GB audio hard disk drive memory (HDD), and a higher-resolution
display.
The fuel economy gains for 2012 result from combined
improvements to the powertrain, chassis and vehicle aerodynamics. The 250
horsepower i-VTEC V-6 engine includes additional measures for friction reduction
and improved efficiency. The 2012 Pilot becomes quieter with additional noise
insulation and other enhancements throughout the vehicle.
Exterior
Design
The 2012 Honda Pilot's new grille and front fascia replace the
prior model's six-sided grille insert with a distinctive three-bar horizontal
design. Reconfigured multi-reflector halogen headlights and turn signals
contribute to the new look with a layout that relocates the turn signal from an
outboard position to an inboard position within the headlight housing. A new
front air dam and optimized strakes (the rectangular air deflector in front of
the wheels) help reduce frontal area and unwanted air turbulence, both of which
impact fuel economy. Rounding out the exterior design changes, Pilot EX and
above models receive an all-new five-spoke, 18-inch aluminum alloy wheel design
(plus 1-inch compared to the previous model). Pilot Touring alloy wheels feature
an exclusive six-spoke design with a high-contrast machined surface. Pilot LX
models are equipped with 17-inch styled-steel wheels.
Exterior dimensions
for 2012 are similar to 2011 with identical measurements for width (78.5
inches), height (71.0 inches for Pilot LX and 72.7 inches for Pilot EX, EX-L and
Touring) wheelbase (109.2 inches) and track (front 67.7 / rear 67.5 inches).
Overall length increases 0.5 inches to 191.4 inches as a result of the front
styling changes. Ground clearance is basically the same at 7.97 inches, down
slightly from 8.00 inches in the previous model.
Honda Pilot Touring: Review (2/2)