All-New ’16 Honda Pilot Puts Accent on Technology

CHICAGO – The all-new ’16 Honda Pilot will arrive in dealerships this summer, the third generation of Honda's midsize, three-row CUV.

Available design highlights include high-efficiency LED projector headlights with auto high-beam technology, LED daytime running lights and taillights, 20-in. wheels and a first-ever panoramic roof.

Inside, the premium theme adds high-quality, soft-touch materials throughout the cabin as well as details such as LED map lighting. Additional high-end amenities include available heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel and heated second-row seats.

For the first time, upper-trim Pilot models will have available two second-row captain’s chairs, providing for easy access to the third row in addition to the standard second-row 3-person 60/40 split seat for 8-passenger seating capacity.

Infotainment hardware includes five USB ports, four with 2.5-amp output, to charge iPads or smartphones while in use. Additional ports and plugs include an auxiliary jack for most audio players, an HDMI port for a gaming console, two headphone jacks, two 12V power outlets and a 115V outlet to power just about anything.

The new Pilot also incorporates an upsized 8-in. capacitive touchscreen Display Audio telematics interface powered by a new Android-based operating system and more powerful processor, as well as an available all-new embedded Honda satellite-linked navigation system. The new navi system features new capabilities, including 3-D renderings of terrain, buildings and road signs, improved lane guidance, live search function and 911 emergency services.

The CUV’s Display Audio system enables simplified smartphone connectivity for access to all the features and connectivity options of the HondaLink connected-car system. A 9-in. rear entertainment system with DVD and new Blu-Ray disc capability is available.

The Pilot adds 3 ins. (77 mm) of length, enlarging the cargo area without compromising third-row seating capability. An available one-touch walk-in second-row seat slides and tilts to its forwardmost position at the touch of a button for easier third-row entry/exit. The new center console is enlarged to hold either a fullsize iPad or a large purse.

The 3.5L direct-injected V-6 with cylinder-deactivation technology is new and includes stop/start. The engine is mated to either a Pilot-first 6-speed automatic or, on upper-level trims, a Honda-first 9-speed automatic.

The new Pilot will be available in front- and all-wheel drive. Safety features include Honda Sensing technologies designed to sense and respond to potential road hazards, including other vehicles, road obstacles and even pedestrians.

Systems include lane-departure and blindspot alerts, rearview camera, collision-mitigation braking, forward-collision warning, rear cross-traffic monitor and a Honda-first Road Departure Mitigation system designed to keep the vehicle on the pavement.