Honda launched the midsize Pilot sport utility vehicle for 2003, billing it as “not too big, not too small.” Larger than the company’s compact CR-V and youth-focused Element, the Pilot replaced Honda’s Passport. New for 2005 was a 255-horsepower V-6 that operated via a drive-by-wire throttle system. Upper gear ratios in the five-speed-automatic transmission were modified to yield smoother transitions. All trim levels added a tire-pressure-monitoring system. More standard features, including a Maintenance Minder and three-row side curtain-type airbags, go into 2006 models. For the first time, a two-wheel-drive version with Variable Cylinder Management is available. The VCM system can automatically [...]
Many newcomers have entered the compact sport utility vehicle market since Honda launched its car-based CR-V as a 1997 model. Honda’s compact five-passenger SUV offers LX, EX, and SE models. LXs come with front- or all-wheel drive. The others have AWD. The 2006 CR-V earned five-star ratings in both frontal and side-impact crash tests by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. An automatic transmission is available for all models; a 5-speed manual is available for EX versions only. Traction/antiskid control and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard. Each CR-V seats up to five occupants in front bucket seats and a [...]
