Honda Pilot receives new look and new technology for 2006

The versatile and popular Honda Pilot sets a new standard in the 8-passenger mid-size SUV segment for 2006 with more features and significant enhancements to the interior and exterior, along with the addition of two-wheel-drive (2WD) versions with Variable Cylinder Management(TM) (VCM(TM)) engine technology.

The 2006 Pilot exterior becomes more expressive with new designs for the grille, hood, fenders, headlights, bumpers and tail lights that accent the "Honda Truck" family appearance. In addition, EX trim levels receive fog lights, and both EX and LX trim levels feature sporty, new alloy wheel designs. Inside, new styling and features include a new instrument panel design, seat fabrics and an adjustable headrest. Available features now include the latest Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System(TM) with Voice Recognition and a 7-inch screen, a Honda DVD Entertainment System with a 9-inch screen and a 115 Volt accessory outlet. A rear-view camera is standard on vehicles with the navigation system.

The 2006 Honda Pilot is available in an all-new two-wheel-drive version featuring a 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine with VCM. Equipped with advanced valvetrain technology that can deactivate three of the engine's six cylinders during cruising and deceleration, VCM enhances fuel efficiency and provides seamless operation between three- and six-cylinder operation modes.

Pilots equipped with 2WD and VCM achieve an EPA-rated city/highway fuel economy of 18/24 mpg, compared to 17/22 mpg for models equipped with 4WD and conventional VTEC. This is the first-ever application of VCM technology in a Honda SUV - the Honda Odyssey and Accord Hybrid also utilize VCM. Vehicles equipped with VCM include Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Honda's Active Control Engine Mount (ACM) system. The ANC and ACM systems work in cooperation to cancel both noise and vibration that could occur in relation to the cylinder deactivation process.

As part of Honda's "Safety for Everyone" initiative, all trim levels of the Pilot include Three-Row Side Curtain Airbags as standard equipment. This further compliments the vehicle's existing standard Driver's and Front Passenger's Airbags (SRS), Driver's and Front Passenger's Side Air Bags and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA). READ MORE...