2012 Honda Pilot

The 2012 Honda Pilot includes a series of upgrades and tweaks both inside and out, making this midsize, crossover SUV better than ever. Increased fuel efficiency and additional standard features are welcome news. Available models include the LX, EX, EX-L and a top-of-the-line Touring trim.

The exterior appearance of the Pilot retains a rugged truck-like style, unique for this class, yet it benefits from unibody construction for lighter weight with better maneuverability and fuel efficiency. Style enhancements include a new grill in a more aerodynamic front design, and most models have upgraded to 18-inch wheels; the LX continues with 17-inch wheels. The Touring trim's power liftgate is now standard on the EX-L model, and every 2012 Pilot has improved acoustical glass to reduce exterior noise intrusions.

The Pilot keeps the 3.5-liter, V6 engine for 2012, providing 250 horsepower and 253 lbs/ft of torque. Also back is the 5-speed automatic transmission with Variable Cylinder Management, which maximizes fuel efficiency by using only three or four cylinders when six aren't needed. Front-wheel drive is standard. All-wheel drive, optional for each model, automatically transfers significant control to the rear wheels if the front wheels slip. Drivers can also manually direct power to the rear wheels when traveling below 19 mph.

Standard safety features on the Pilot include antilock disc brakes, stability control, front and front-side airbags as well as full-length, side-curtain airbags. An occupancy sensor determines which airbags need to deploy, and to what intensity, based on passenger weight and other sensor readings. The interior includes an impressive four anchors for child safety seats, including all three second-row positions and one third-row anchor.

The Pilot LX is a basic model designed for cost-conscious buyers unconcerned with bells and whistles. The interior continues its unique, generous seating arrangement with room for eight adults, while foldable second- and third-row seats create increased cargo space. Redesigned dash controls provide greater ease of use.

The EX has automatic climate control, a power driver's seat, satellite radio and HomeLink for wireless control of gates, garage doors and home lighting. New standard features include hands-free Bluetooth access, 2 GB of digital music storage and audio streaming.

The EX-L adds leather seats, front heated seats, a power passenger's seat, USB stereo jack, moonroof and a backup camera.

The top, Touring trim adds even more, including both navigation and the DVD player, an upgraded stereo system, parking sensors, and seat and mirror memory.