2016 Pilot AWD Elite: The Most Aerodynamically Efficient Pilot Ever

The 2016 Pilot Elite parallels the capability of the Odyssey, without losing any of the utilitarian charm that attracted buyers to the first two Pilots.

Built on the solid reputation established from the June 2002 introduction of the first generation 2003 model, the 2016 Pilot brings a whole new level of refinement and available content to the segment and with more of what active families seek in a three-row SUV – sleek and athletic styling, outstanding power, sophisticated technology and, new for 2016, an all-new Elite model with a panoramic roof and a vast array of other standard features.

This week in Carsfera.com we drove the newly and modern designed 2016 Honda Pilot AWD Elite through some beautiful country roads.

The first impression was a question of power and technology. This new 2016 Pilot AWD Elite is built on a direct injected 3.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC EarthDreams Technology engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Yes 280 horsepower…forget the ponies…when we heard the rumble of this engine; it was music to our ears.

We have to say that Honda has made great technology improvements. Honda has great reputation in the industry, not only because of who they are but also for what they build. From the technical perspective we have to mention the new Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4) AWD and the Intelligent Traction Management.

How does this technology work?

The i-VTM4 or Intelligent Variable Torque Management system is so good that you can feel how distributes optimum torque between the front and rear axles and, for the first time ever in a Honda vehicle, dynamically distributes engine torque between the left and right rear wheels using the new, lightweight rear drive unit. The system’s benefits are outstanding and include superior all-weather handling and neutral, accurate steering under power that is unmatched by front-drive, rear-drive or conventional all-wheel-drive system.

The all-new selectable Intelligent Traction Management system featuring Normal, Mud, Sand, and Snow modes allows the driver to select the operating mode that best suits the driving conditions by simply pushing a button on the vehicle’s center console. Based on the setting selected, the system adjusts the drive-by wire map, transmission shift map, Vehicle Stability Assist and i-VTM4 torque distribution for optimal performance in varying road or surface conditions.

These technologies, combined with a nearly 300-pound reduction in vehicle weight (on upper trims), improved aerodynamics and reduced running resistance, make this the most fuel-efficient offering in the midsize SUV segment, with EPA fuel-economy ratings improved by as much as 22 mpg city/highway/combined over the previous model which is pretty good, considering its size.

Outside, our 2016 Pilot AWD Elite was modern, sleek, commanding and muscular. Starting with the overall body dimensions and shape, continuing with exterior features such as the sculptured side mirrors and rear spoiler, and extending to numerous under-body details such as air strakes and covers, we have to say that the new 2016 Pilot AWD Elite is the most aerodynamically efficient Pilot ever.

The new Pilot’s comprehensive aero-overhaul pays dividends in virtually every part of the driving experience, from fuel efficiency gains (and lower emissions) to dynamic stability on the highway, to reduced interior noise levels that directly contribute to a calmer and more enjoyable ride.

Special aerodynamic details that are readily visible on the body include virtually all of the sheet metal, the headlight lenses, side mirrors, windshield wipers (shape and placement), the door handles, the rear spoiler and even the taillight lenses. Also, the new windshield design sits flush with the upper section of the cowl (at the base of the windshield), further reducing turbulence and wind noise.

The premium quality of the new Pilot carries over to the interior, where designers have applied high quality, soft-touch materials throughout the cabin and added thoughtful details such as LED map lighting. Additional high-end amenities include a standard 4.2-inch color display, available heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel and heated second-row seats.

Also significantly upgraded were the Display Audio and navigation systems. The available Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver assistive technologies brings available features that include Collision Mitigation Braking System with Forward Collision Warning, Road Departure Mitigation System, Lane Keeping Assist System with Lane Departure Warning and Adaptive Cruise Control. Providing customers with a greatly increased range of trim levels. The Pilot Elite offers an extensive feature content list, including a panoramic glass roof, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row captain’s chairs, LED headlights with auto high-beam, rain sensing windshield wipers and much more. And these are in addition to a long list of standard features throughout the Pilot trim range.

Are you ready to ride with us?