HONDA Pilot 2009-2016 Photos, engines & full specs

The second generation of the large SUV Honda Pilot was launched in 2009. It was a major design step forward when compared to the previous generation, which looked more like an expanded CR-V.

The styling was important for the 2009 Pilot. The angled face from the 2002-2008 model was dropped and a flat, almost vertical, front fascia that looked more like a Honda Element design. The flat surface design was applied on the sides and on the rear liftgate.

For the interior, differences were depending on the trim level. On the top version, the navigation system, 8” infotainment LCD screen, and dual climate controls were installed. A big panoramic glass roof was available as well. A rearview camera was standard on the Pilot EX-L and Pilot Touring models. Inside, there was room for up to eight passengers, depending on the seat configuration.

It was made to tackle medium off-road tracks with the confidence of an 8” (205 mm) ground clearance and pull up to 4500 lbs (2040 kg) in the AWD version. For the powertrain, Honda insisted on offering only one engine and one gearbox. The only option was two or all-wheel-drive. The 5-speed automatic was standard and no manual choice was available. To improve the fuel-efficiency, the intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC®) valvetrain technology with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) allowed the V-6 engine to operate in six-cylinder mode for power and four- and three-cylinder modes.