All new in 2009, this year's Honda Pilot mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) enjoys those changes that made it longer, wider, higher, more spacious inside and more powerful under the hood. Our test drive was the top of the line Touring model fully equipped with rear entertainment and voice-activated navigation (R&N). Pilots are described as crossover vehicles, with more refinement inside and a smoother ride than previous generations of SUV's.

Pilot comes in two or four-wheel drive and LX, EX and Touring trims with various optional upgrade packages. All use a dashboard-mounted automatic transmission with Honda's Variable Cylinder Management deactivation system, which decreases cylinder use when cruising to reduce gasoline consumption. When it happens the word "Eco" appears in green light on the left of the dashboard – a paean to the environmental movement. Additionally, 90% of the Pilot is considered recyclable, and long-life fluids used by Honda don't require any scheduled engine maintenance for the first 100,000 miles/10 years of normal driving. The eight-passenger Pilot handles well on the highways and has a tight turning radius for u-turns. While there is slight roll in turns, the Pilot always feels steady with on-line and responsive steering.

The 2009 redesign didn't vastly alter the Pilot's looks but everything is slightly bigger. It shows inside with more roominess, with the third row seating now more acceptable for adults. Second and third rows have 60/60-split flat fold down and there are plenty of knick-knack areas for all occupants. The navigation system is ergonomically friendly and one of the easiest to conquer. Behind the wheel, drivers encounter a center dashboard and spine with a multiplicity of controls (there are at least 75 different buttons, taps or turns a driver can access). While potentially distracting, usage breeds familiarity and reduces search time for the action spot. A knob controls navigation and audio functions, which includes three free months of XM Satellite Radio. Pilots use a drive-by-wire throttle for quick steering response and the front MacPherson strut and rear multilink suspensions keep the ride comfortable yet firm. Some bumps at slow speed feel truck-like but are less bouncy at higher speeds. Safety features include federal five star top ratings in front and side crash tests and four stars for rollovers. The ride is quiet, towing is rated at 4,500 pounds, ground clearance remains at 8-inches and the comfort features are high, including a large center spine storage compartment. Rear camera images are sharper (and in color). DVD rear entertainment system is perfect baby sitter for long trips.