2003 Honda Pilot EX

A 5-speed automatic is the lone transmission offering. Also, all Pilots are equipped with Honda's VTM-4 (Variable Torque Management 4-Wheel Drive) system. Marketing semantics aside, it's primarily a front-drive system that seamlessly and automatically converts to all-wheel drive by sending as much as 50 percent of the engine's torque rearward. ABS sensors trigger the transfer. Below 18 mph, a dashboard switch dispatches half of the available torque rearward for inclement-weather/off-pavement extractions.

Standard items are A/C, cruise, and power windows/mirrors/locks. EX trim adds an upgraded stereo and a power driver's seat. Options include leather, a nav system and backseat DVD entertainment.

Honda's straightforward, highly functional interior designs are well represented in the Pilot. With one exception, switchgear and controls are within easy reach and are intuitively positioned. The offender: a right column-stalk that stumped more than one tester on multiple occasions. The column-mounted gearshift lever obscures the squirter stalk, resulting in a clean front windshield instead of the desired transmission gear.


However, the shifter position makes way for an innovative center console. The epitome of family friendliness, this storage unit features a large bin, a cell-phone cradle, 12-volt power outlet, storage tray for as many as 30 CDs and removable cup holders. EX trim extends the functionality with a fold-down second-row "activity tray" that features cupholders, small-game storage and even McNugget sauce holders. Uplevel amenities also include a 7-speaker sound system with cassette deck. (AM/FM/in-dash CD is standard across the board.) Overall, this theater-throned interior is engineered for drive-thru Happy-Meal elegance; build quality is characteristically Honda-high.


LCD technology highlights the options list. Buyers can choose either the delightfully simple, Honda satellite-linked navigation system that's shared with the MDX or a DVD entertainment system (but not both). Leather upholstery is a prerequisite for the nav system.


Since safety is such a strong selling point in fit-the-whole-family vehicles, Honda engineered the Pilot's shell for 5-star front- and side-impact ratings. Furthermore, front airbags have dual-stage deployment, and the front-row side bags factor occupant position into the inflation equation. All eight seating positions have 3-point belts and headrests.