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2016 Honda Pilot Makes Chicago Auto Show Debut

10784 Views 81 Replies 52 Participants Last post by  Zydzik

onda just took the wrapper off its latest Pilot SUV. This 2016 model is the nameplate’s third generation and it’s significantly improved, offering more cargo space, greater performance and improved fuel economy.

The first thing most drivers will notice about this crossover is the exterior. Honda is not typically known for its lusty styling and the current Pilot is about as boxy as the crate your refrigerator came in. But no more! The 2016 model is sleek and pleasantly attractive, with a smoothly flowing front end and plenty of tasteful design elements.

Of course that candy coating conceals a lot of wholesomeness within. The vehicle is about three inches longer than today’s pilot, something that allowed for more storage space, particularly behind the third-row seat. Engineers also made it easier to get into and out of that rear-most bench.

Remarkably the 2016 Pilot is up to 300 pounds lighter than today’s version. Engineers scrutinized and optimized everything they could in a bid to trim unwanted mass and it appears as though they’ve succeeded. Despite the weight loss it’s still expected to be a safety leader. Honda estimates it will ace both NHTSA and IIHS crash tests.

Adding some glitz are optional LED projector headlamps with automatic high beams as well as available 20-inch wheels. Other premium items on the menu include a panoramic roof, heated and ventilated front seats and, in upper-level models, second-row captain’s chairs.

Overall the ****pit is much improved. Materials are noticeably more premium and there’s a host of new features. Honda has installed a ton of different ports to serve the needs of today’s connected families. There are five USB outlets, an auxiliary jack, an HDMI port and more. Also, the vehicle sports a new Android-based infotainment system.

Drivers can also get a whole range of advanced assistance technologies including things like lane-departure warning, collision mitigation braking, blind-spot monitoring and much more — pretty much all of the latest and greatest safety and convenience features.

Power is provided by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that’s pumped up with direct fuel injection. Neither horsepower nor torque are available at this time but they will be greater than what’s offered in today’s Pilot. For reference its port-injected bent-six delivers 250 ponies and 253 lb-ft of peak twist ...
For complete details about the 2016 Honda Pilot please visit AutoGuide.com.
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1 - 20 of 82 Posts
Kewl blue. Looks like a manlier CR-V.
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Kewl blue. Looks like a manlier CR-V.
Definitely looks like a stretched CR-V. I don't know if I'd call it manlier, just bigger. The same way I don't consider the Traverse to be a manlier version of an Equinox.
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Definitely looks like a stretched CR-V. I don't know if I'd call it manlier, just bigger. The same way I don't consider the Traverse to be a manlier version of an Equinox.
Vaguely or relatively more masculine based on relative size (which is a characteristic of sexual dimorphism in humans).
To me it looks more feminine to minivan-ish.... Tho old one was more "square" which imparts a masculine look (again, that's just my opinion). But time and time again it does not appear that people buy Japanese cars for style, they are bought for the Honda or Toyota brand name and what that represents (quality), so the styling wont matter.
Looks like a minivan to me. That being said, I am sure it will sell to the Honda"ites" who need something bigger to haul their rugrats around.

BTW, I am sure they softened the boxiness for aerodynamic reasons. The old Pilot/Ridgeline were pigs on gas for their size.
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The styling doesn't do it for me. This looks like it could be any brand (put the logo here). At least with the last one that was very square it was unique.
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A Honda Pathfinder? Nissan Highlander? Toyota Pilot?

They're all the same thing.
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Yawn
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Handsome, roomier, and lighter? How can this not be a hit?
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A Pilot buyer could not care less about weight savings. Number of cupholders, yes!
At first I didn't like it as it looks like a Plump CRV. Once the interior and some of the features were shown the Pilot began to grow on me. It's pretty roomy and very functional. Much more appealing than the current version. 9speed Trans, Engine Stop and go @ idle, and side view cameras...Pretty Kewl stuff...
The styling doesn't do it for me. This looks like it could be any brand (put the logo here). At least with the last one that was very square it was unique.
I'm surprised that you still can't buy one of these lifted minivans at Home Depot along with other appliances. It would be much more convenient for the busy suburban family.
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If GM doesn't give us a version of the Trailblazer/Colorado 7, this will be my wife's next vehicle.
Sooo a fat CRV? No thanks. Durango and Explorer are still better options. Hell if you want to go Japanese go with the Highlander.
A Pilot buyer could not care less about weight savings. Number of cupholders, yes!
They could if it results in increased fuel economy and more nimble handling.
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Looks like a traverse on the rear 3/4
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Glad to see the have added hp for the first time. Styling is not good. I actually prefer the first gens styling after seeing this. It does look significantly more aerodynamic though. Should be a big plus with the v4 mode on the hwy. I am curious to see what the interior noise levels will be. Honda is really behind on the road noise front.
I liked the old Pilot. The squared off look I think made it stand out. This will just blend into the automotive landscape. Another CUV crossover wallflower
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