Temple of VTEC Rumors and News - 2003 Honda Pilot Ready for Take-Off

Torrance, Calif. 08/16/2002 -- The all-new 2003 Honda Pilot sport utility vehicle combines a versatile 8-passenger interior and the largest cargo carrying capacity in its class with best-in-class safety, fuel efficiency and emissions to set a new benchmark in the mid-size SUV segment.
"The Pilot provides Honda with a world-class player in the ever growing SUV market," said Tom Elliott, executive vice president, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "It combines the rugged versatility of traditional sport utilities with Honda's legendary dependability, quality and reliability. We expect it to set a new standard in the SUV segment, in much the same way the Odyssey has done in the minivan segment."

The Pilot features a 240-horsepower, 3.5-liter, VTEC V-6 engine and Honda's patented VTM-4(TM) (Variable Torque Management 4WD) advanced four-wheel drive system. The interior is the most versatile and functional in the class, with two rows of 60/40 split folding seats and up to 90.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats.

Designed for the "Ultimate Family Adventure," Honda engineers developed a number of family-friendly features including a multi-function center console with a large center storage bin, dedicated cell phone cradle, 12-volt power outlet, CD storage tray and removable cup holders. EX models feature a second-row fold-down activity tray that incorporates cup holders and a storage tray for pocket-size game machines, crayons, markers or fast food items, including a special holder for fast food sauce containers.

The Pilot employs highly efficient body crumple zones and sophisticated airbag technology, and is expected to achieve a 5-star safety rating for both frontal and side impacts. Additional measures have been taken to ensure a high level of protection for third-row occupants in front, side and rear collisions. In keeping with Honda's longstanding commitment to environmental leadership, the Pilot is rated a Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV) with excellent fuel economy and is constructed with 90 percent recyclable components.

The Pilot is available in two trim levels, LX and EX. LX models will come well-equipped with a host of standard equipment including air conditioning; cruise control; AM/FM stereo with in-dash CD player; driver and front passenger front and side airbags; and power windows, mirrors and door locks.

Pilot EX models add such features as aluminum alloy wheels; synchronized front and rear automatic climate control; a seven-speaker, 155-watt stereo; and several options including leather interior, a Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System or Honda's DVD Entertainment System.

The Pilot will be built alongside the Acura MDX and Honda Odyssey by Honda Canada Manufacturing in Alliston, Ontario using domestic and globally-sourced parts.