2004 Honda Pilot 11275

Honda's midsize SUV, which shares its basic design with Acura's MDX, gets only minor changes for 2004. Pilot costs less than the MDX and has different styling. But the two share a chassis, V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel-drive system. Pilot's body is slightly shorter than MDX's, but the taller, wider Honda seats eight vs. MDX's seven and has 8.8 cu ft more cargo volume. It also has softer suspension tuning and 16-inch wheels vs. 17s. Pilot offers LX and a pair of upscale models, the EX and leather-upholstered EX-L. Standard on all Pilots are antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and front side airbags; rear or curtain side airbags are unavailable, but are newly standard this year on MDX. The AWD system does not have low-range gearing, but can be set via a dashboard button to split power evenly front to rear. Pilot has a one-piece rear liftgate without separate-opening glass. The 2nd- and 3rd-row seats are 60/40 split folding benches. Newly standard on EX-L are heated front seats and mirrors. Optional on EX-L are a navigation system and rear DVD entertainment, though they are not available together.