2012 Honda Pilot gets updated cabin, sips less fuel

The Honda Pilot, which ranked fifth in our most recent comparo tests, will see its exterior design lightly tweaked, its cabin improved to correct some of the issues we pointed out and its fuel consumption slashed for the 2012 model year.

A new three-slat grille will take the place of the old six-bar version. The halogen head- and tail lamps have been reconfigured, and the turn signals have been relocated in an inside position, marking the main exterior changes.

The EX versions will now be shod in 5-spoke, 18-inch wheels instead of the 17-inch numbers offered in 2011, while those of the top-of-the-line Pilot Touring will sport six spokes and a classier finish.

The dimensions of the 2012 Pilot will be similar to those of the outgoing model, though it will be 12.7 mm longer and its 202.44-mm ground clearance will barely be lower than the 2011 Pilot’s with its 203 mm.

Same V6, but not as thirsty
The 250-hp i-VTEC V6 with its Variable Cylinder Management system, which deactivates three cylinders when they’re not needed, will be back, mated once again to the five-speed automatic transmission.

Honda still found a way to boost the Pilot’s already decent fuel economy, though, by improving the SUV’s aerodynamics to reduce turbulence. The Transport Canada ratings aren’t available at the moment, but we’ll pass on the information as soon as it’s announced.

Welcome interior upgrades
The changes inside will no doubt be appreciated most. The Pilot will feature a more unified colour palette, and the panel hosting the sound controls will now be black instead of silver.

One of the downsides we noted in our comparo was the complex centre console buttons, and Honda changed them around to create a more intuitive experience. Kudos for that.

Finally, the speedometer and rpm counter will feature white backlighting at night instead of aqua blue, the sound insulation will be improved and the sound system will have cell phone integration and allow you to stream music via Bluetooth (EX and EX-L).

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