Honda refreshes Pilot SUV for 2015, adds Special Edition

(June 3, 2014) TORRANCE, Calif. — With the new Special Edition trim level, improved fuel efficiency and a go-anywhere, do-anything capability that fits the lifestyles of active families, the 2015 Honda Pilot goes on sale today starting at $29,8701.

Honda's renowned engineering excellence and quality combine to produce a practical and versatile three-row, eight-passenger family SUV with a class-leading EPA highway fuel economy rating of 25 mpg (2WD models) and towing capacity of 4,500 pounds (4WD models). Add a low cost of ownership and five feature-rich trim levels and the 2015 Pilot is the "Ultimate Family Adventure Vehicle."

New for 2015, the Pilot Special Edition (SE) is positioned between the EX and EX-L trim levels and includes sporty pewter gray aluminum alloy wheels, special SE badging, a one-touch-open power moonroof with tilt feature, Sirus XM radio and a Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System. Standard features on all 2015 Pilots include remote entry, rearview camera and an integrated Class III trailer hitch.

All 2015 Pilots are powered by a 250-horsepower 4 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management. The engine is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control to help maintain the most appropriate gear when climbing or descending steep grades.

All trims are available with 2-wheel drive or with Honda's Variable Torque Management 4-wheel-drive system (VTM-4) that adds fully automatic 4-wheel-drive capability and features a "lock mode" that can deliver the maximum-possible torque transfer to the rear wheels to aid extraction from extremely low traction or stuck conditions.

The Pilot's powertrain is complemented by a rigid body structure and fully independent suspension — with MacPherson strut front and multi-link with trailing arm rear – that provides the foundation for its responsive handling and comfortable ride. These traits are complemented by chassis geometry producing impressive cornering capability and easy maneuverability in tight parking situations.

The Honda Pilot was designed and engineered at Honda's R&D facilities in California and Ohio, and is built exclusively by Honda Manufacturing of Alabama.