Honda's only three-row SUV gets an update for 2012 that grants more fuel efficiency and a hip new nose, but it's still the thick, square-off truck we have since 2008. Pilot maintains a 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 engine, but subtle changes now provide better fuel economy, Honda claims that the best in its class, although it is still a relatively dated five-speed automatic transmission uses, instead of The six speeds competitors (and corporate cousin Acura) have.

The Pilot seats eight passengers in three rows wide. Passengers in the third row is enough space for full-size adults, but only just. Cargo room is leading with eight passengers, however, and a compliment of luxury goodies include a power tailgate, a 60GB hard drive for storing MP3, Bluetooth, and an available navigation system. In EX trim, the Pilot goes all out with heated leather seats, three-zone automatic climate control, satellite radio, and a power moonroof. A rear DVD entertainment system is also available for the kiddies.

Body: Crossover SUV

Engines: 3.5-liter V-6

Transmission: five-speed automatic

Models: LX FWD / AWD EX FWD / AWD EX-L FWD / AWD EX-L with Navi FWD / AWD EX-L with Navi and Rear Entertainment System, Touring FWD / AWD, Touring with Navi FWD / AWD , Touring with Navi and Rear Entertainment System FWD / AWD

Most noticeably, the Pilot gets a new grille and fog light placement for 2012, and chrome strips on the doors. Inside, the Pilot is quieter due to double glazing, clear gauges, center console, piano black trim instead of silver, and the overall improvement of the sound and reduce hardness. Fuel economy improves.

All Pilot models come with automatic on / off halogen headlamps, fenders and rear privacy glass. EX and Touring models have roof rails, alloy wheels, fog lights, body painted door handles and exterior mirrors with turn indicators duplicators.

Honda reduced the number of buttons on the crowded console for the 2012 model year, in response to the complaints of the pilot. Another complaint, road noise is also restrained with thicker glass and a new frame mounts. Interior volume is impressive with the seats folded down, and there is a small container under the cargo space for two additional cubic meter hidden cargo. Rear seat entertainment is optional on EX models.

The Honda Pilot offers an engine and transmission: a 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 connected to a five-speed automatic transmission. The five-speed automatic transmission runs against a field of mostly six-speed automatic, although fuel consumption is still very good. Pre-and four-wheel drive configurations are available for all models. Unibody construction and independent suspension means that the Pilot offers a commendable, sure-footed drive over any terrain, and even the Honda Pilot, Ford claims that up to 19 inches of water, if your adventures take you into such a direction. The rated towing capacity of 4500 pounds is a bit low.

Vehicle Stability Assist is standard on all models Pilot, as well as rollover protection. All three rows of seats are side curtain airbags and front seat occupants have front and side airbags with occupant sensing, as well as active head restraints, for a total of six airbags.

Front Wheel Drive: 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway

AWD: 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway