2003 Pilot

[peter78]

I am surprised you didn't include this one. Being a Honda person I had to drive one. My impressions: It looks like a mini-van, drives like a mini-van, handles like a mini-van it must be a ???? When I stepped on the gas hard I was expecting more punch. You do get the impression it is very heavy. The dealer said with a straight face, their is a $2000 mark up.

Later on I saw one on the road, it looks like a GM SUV from the rear. Having a third row seat I am sure it will do well. Having a 4Runner, I must say I am now baised against Honda.

One thing that struck me about the car, is that the oil cap on the engine stated uses 5W20. I wonder if that is really a good thing or is CAFE mileage taking over, instead of reliability. Any thoughts?

 

[Thai]

Peter,

Well, the Acura MDX thread would cover the Pilot too because they're sisters.

I never could get over looking at the rear suspension components (control arms) hanging so low to the ground...and the whole thing is visible from the rear. I actually like the Honda Pilot shape better than MDX...it has a more traditional design (boxy).

The other problem is the "potential" problem with it's auto transmission. In addition, you need to change the rear differential fluid at 7500 miles...it is CLUTCH-based, not gear-based.

Overall, it is good for a family...however, i would wait a while until Honda fixes the auto trannies on it's vehicles.