I purchased the Pilot LX 2WD a couple weeks ago and can answer some of your questions. I drove both the LX and EX, and for my specific needs, couldn't justify the extra $ for the EX. I'll put responses below your questions.
• Driver’s seat with 8-way power and lumbar adjustment -LX is 6-way manual adjustment If I'm the only driver of the pilot and I set LX seat to fit me comfortably will I get the same comfort level of the EX's driver seat? Power adjustments to me are for cars used by different drivers, I dont see the need if only one driver is going to use it. * The comfort of the seat is fine to me. If my wife uses the Pilot, it's a simple adjustment back and forth.
• XM Ready/6-disc in-dash CD with 7 speakers including subwoofer -LX has the AM/FM/1-disc cd player with 4 speakers * Would be nice to have the better sound system, but not a necessity to me. The LX sound system is adequate, but not great.
• Front and rear synchronized automatic climate control system -LX it's manual front and separate manual rear controls * Again, would be nice to have, but not a necessity for me.
• Upgraded 16-inch alloy wheels -Anyone know where i could find pics on the net for the LX's painted alloy wheels? * I'm real happy w/ the LX painted alloy wheels. To the average person, you can't tell the difference - or at least I can't.
• Fog lights -Can you get this as an option on the LX? * You can add these. Check hondaaccessories.com Some other sites offer Pilot equipment as well so you can shop for pricing.
• security system -The LX has remote entry and panic alarm What is a panic alarm and what exactly is Honda putting in the "security system"? I'm a newbie to this stuff so more info greatly appreciated... * The panic alarm is on your key and can be pressed to set off the horn in a dire situation. There may be more to it - I really haven't investigated all the security functions of the panic alarm or security system. The honda site I referred to above can give you an overview of the security system that can be added to the LX.
• Home link -I have no idea what this is, so please explain... * I wasn't interested in this, so I didn't really pay attention during the sales pitch, but my understanding is that this is an electronic system that can be linked to things like your garage door or lighting system at home so you can open your garage door, turn on the lights, etc, w/ the push of a button in the vehicle.
• rear window tint -LX will have light tint * I don't notice much of a tint to the LX windows. If there's one thing I may do to our LX it is get window tinting on the back 5 windows. We'll see.
• roof rails -Can you get this as an option on the LX? * Yes. You can purchase these off the honda accessories website and others.
• body colored mirrors and door handles (versus black in the LX) -This is the one extra feature I wish the LX had, coz painting will chip off sooner or later if you do it. And are there any pics on the net of LX's? Honda.com shows the EX pics only even as LX examples. * I bought a black LX, so that took care of that problem....
• body colored rear spoiler (versus black in the LX) -Are there any pics on the net for this? * Same as my response above. You may be able to track down a picture on a dealer website.
• 2nd row activity tray -Are there any pics on the net for this? * I'm not familiar w/ this.
• conversation mirror/sunglass holder -There isn't a sunglass holder on LX's? * There is a sunglass holder above the rear view mirror on the LX.
• cargo net included -Can I buy this aftermarket? * Yes. Check the accessories site.
• EX has 2 more cupholders than the LX -So which seating positions don't have the cupholders,the middle seats in 2nd and 3rd rows? * Not sure. I never checked.
Oh I also think that the EX dimensions are a little wider and taller by only an inch and the EX has exeterior temperature sensor * I'm not sure.
As for 2WD and 4WD, do you guys think that the 2WD will be good enough to travel once in a while to Lake Tahoe or snowy terrain or is the 4WD really necessary in this kind of climate? * Not sure. Being in North Carolina w/ minimal winters compared to where I grew up in NY, I couldn't justify the 4WD. Most say 4WD is better for resale, but I'll drive this into the ground so resale was not a concern for me. LX 2WD will get you slightly better gas mileage if that's a concern for you.
Just to add a few thoughts. I purchased an EXL 4WD a week ago and I didn't really look at the LX (I wanted leather) so my impressions are limited.
I like the power seat and use the lumbar but it's not essential. Same with alloy wheels and CD changer (it's nice but not critical).
Fog lights, rails and cargo net can be purchased separately if you desire. Window tinting can be done but this is one area I like to get from the factory (not a huge deal).
I do enjoy the synchronized automatic climate control system but again it's not essential.
Not sure on cupholders but I suspect the two extra are from the activity tray, which is a fold-down portion of the center 2nd row seat that has a tray and two cupholders for kids or passengers. It's pretty convenient but not a show-stopper.
Body colored items are pretty much for looks. Conversation mirror is nice for kids but not essential.
HomeLink is nice b/c you don't have to put your garage remote on your visor.
Security system is just a basic one (doors opened while armed and alarm goes off) but it's nice piece of mind I guess. You could do an aftermarket one. EX may be taller but I think that's just b/c of the roof rack.
What I will say is that if you want most of these things (or would like them) then the package is a pretty good value (vs. separate options). If you don't care about most of them, then why waste the money?
The 4WD question is tough b/c it depends on your own needs, uses and climate but it is a good system.
Since you live in California, Pistonhonda, you know the highway patrol can be pretty picky about road closures and chain requirements in the mountains. They may see your Pilot and assume it's a 4WD and let you pass without chaining up, but then you still have to deal with the snow somehow.
I guess it boils down to how often you expect to go to Tahoe in the winter and how you feel about changing your plans if a big storm blows in. Although you could be hanging out there and get a surprise dump, while your rig is sitting in an unplowed lot. :shades:
I really don't need much of the additions/replacements that they put into the EX but as 01mdx put it, aftermarket installations aren't up to par with manufacturer installs all the time. And I'd really like to have the Pilot in silver so in the end I probably can't deal with putting up with the black side mirrors and door handles.So I'm gonna have to go with an EX...now the 2WD or 4WD predicament :confuse:
Steve, I've only been in snow when on vacation to New York and that was when it was still light snows maybe as thin as 2" never like the ones people see in the news where it pours and pours so I was wondering if I had a 2WD on chains, the CHP wouldn't let me pass? But if I had a 4WD on chains, they would let me go thru even if the snow poured? I've never been to Tahoe thats why I'm just getting an SUV to make roadtrips to Tahoe and LA possible and more enjoyable. When I get this Pilot, its going to be traveling once a year to Tahoe just for the kids to play in the snow so I'm not really after the thick of winter. Just 2-3" of snow on the ground is fine for us but I really wanted them to enjoy ski season(never skied either ) with friends if possible...And going to SoCal probably thrice a year. So the Pilot's uphill power will be a little more better because our Accord just doesn't cut it going SoCal, it just feels so slow .
A 2WD with chains will get you by most of the chain-up requirements going to Tahoe I think. If you get hooked on skiing, you may be wishing for 4WD, but I wouldn't let one trip a winter be the deciding factor.
You could always have your mirrors and door handles painted to match at a body shop - how's that for throwing another wrinkle your way? :shades:
Hi - I just got a Pilot (had a sedan before) and i love it. The one thing i MISS is not having a trunk - somewhere to put 'stuff' that I want to have with me, just not visible and rattling around in the back cargo bay (with 3rd seat folded).
My wife's choosing and paying for this so from what I've heard her comment on so far, my guess is she's leaning on a 2WD EX. On the other hand, looking at the one LX pic on honda.com that I found, the LX is for me with just a couple of add-ons. I'd rather have the 4WD LX seeing that the 2WD EX even cost a little over the 4WD LX. But since money talks and I'm only a stay-at-home dad for now, she has all the say in the world. So thanks guys and hope to drive a nice Pilot soon.
We went and bought a "cargo cover" from a local Honda dealer. It can go behind either the 2nd or 3rd seat and will also stow away where the head rests hide. It was about $140 with a 10% off coupon. Hides everything well.
After driving all seating versions of the PILOT--LX, EX, and EX-L, I personally prefer the feel of the EX seats, that is, the upgraded (from the LX) cloth version. Right out of the box, these have the softest feel. That is not to say that the LX and EX-L don't "soften up" with time, but they are stiffer to begin with.
If anybody out there has had an LX for awhile, I'd like to hear your opinion on the seating comfort, having lived with it for a bit. I'm considering buying the LX mostly because the manually adjusted driver's seat of the LX can be moved farther back ( 3 to 4 inches, believe it or not) than the EX and EX-L power seat.
Just a thought--I actually prefer the black door handles and side mirrors AND spoiler on the LX, particularly on the silver PILOT, not only from an asthetic viewpoint but from practical one as well. I don't like the modern tendancy of carmakers for the "sophistcated, monochromatic" look. Obviously, this is just my opinion, but I like the way the black parts break up an otherwise boring look. Not to mention that the silver door handles and side mirrors WILL get scratched, as will the black--it just won't be as noticeable on the black, down the road.
Wow, if it is true that the LX seats go back further than the EX seats, I'm gonna have to try a Pilot again. I'm 6' 6" and rejected the Pilot after finding legroom in the EX to be inadequate. It never occurred to me that the LX seat might go back further, nor did the salesperson I was working with suggest this.
My salesman didn't realize it either, although I think he's used it as a sales tool since we discovered it by accident while test driving. Go try it for yourself. You MAY find enough legroom for your 6' 6" frame in the LX.
Thanks for the info. The other fly in the ointment for me is that the Pilot doesn't have a telescoping steering column, which with many vehicles means that when the seat goes back far enough to accomodate my legs, the wheel is too far away. But I'll sure give it a try!
Hi, we got a Pilot EX a couple of weeks ago which replaced a 2002 Toyota Sienna. We had a great purchasing experience and are very pleased with the Pilot. We had planned to get either a 2006 Sienna or 4Runner but couldn't stomach dealing with the horse-trading mentality of Toyota dealers and their lousy service.
The nail in the coffin was our 2005 Avalon XLS which has shoddy build quality (rattles galore), a sloppy and hesitant drive-by-wire system and a confused slip, slide and bang transmission. We decided not to risk a Toyota again because obviously "Toyota quality" is history.
Glad we did - the Pilot is solidly constructed and the engine and transmission are extremely refined and well integrated. It is very responsive, smooth and quiet and feels and handles more like a big luxury car than an SUV. Everything is well assembled and functions with fine precision. Very impressive. Toyota - time to take lessons from Honda. I guess we'll be buying Hondas from now on.
Thanks for the report. I was considering an Avalon as an alternative to the Pilot. Seems like apples and oranges, but I am seeking a big, smooth riding vehicle with good driver room and comfort. It sounds like you feel the Pilot has a luxury car feel to it, and I know the Avalon's handling is nothing to brag about. Quality issues aside, how would you compare the ride, handling and quietness of the two vehicles?
The Pilot is my wife's "car" but comparing the new Avalon and Pilot drivetrains is inevitable. They really are apples and oranges but the Honda really impressed having many of the qualities of a luxury car.
My assessment of which car has the advantage:
Handling: As expected, being a car the Avalon is better. It is very well damped, well controlled and sure-footed. Its not a Corvette but I think the handling is excellent. Does not feel like a big car, except when backing up. Rear visibilty is poor.
Power: Avalon. Enough power to blast you into the next galaxy at warp speed before Jean Luc Picard could finish saying "Engage". This thing could well exceed the speed of light!
Braking: Pilot requires less pedal effort.
Steering: Avalon is more precise. Pilot has a bit of a wander on the freeway.
Ride: Pilot is smoother - believe it or not!
Quietness: Pilot is much quieter at idle. It is almost silent. Avalon is somewhat quieter at low speeds but at highway speeds they are almost equal. More wind noise in the Pilot. The Avalon engine is rougher and noiser than the Pilot's.
Comfort: Avalon is supremely comfortable. Lots of room to spread out and the interior is extremely well designed and very attractive. Possibly the best interior this side of $50,000.
Refinement: Pilot!
Ergonomics: Avalon.
Throttle response/drivetrain: Pilot.
Fit, finish & material quality: Pilot.
Trunk space: Avalon, or Pilot if the 3rd row is folded.
Summary: I enjoy driving the Pilot more than the Avalon, and I am a car person!
Hello. Noticed you were 6'7" and interested in your opinion on O6 Pilot seats. I am 6'6" and have noted other conversations about the EX vs LX for leg room.
My issue with pre-06 Pilots (and other mid-sized SUVs) has been the seat bottom. It doesn't extend far enough to provide adequate support for my legs.
How is the 06 in this regard. Anybody have an opinion on the driver seats in 06s vs earlier years?
Are there aftermarket seats available for the Pilot?
Believe it or not I have never tried the LX to compare legroom. The Pilot is my wife's (5'6") car, but I drive it on the weekends. I love that it has a sunroof and I can fit with the sunshade closed. We never had a car with a sunroof for that reason.
I drive an '04 Sienna all week and I will admit, it feels good to go from the Pilot to the Sienna on Monday mornings. The Sienna has more leg room than the EXL Pilot. Driving in the Sienna is like sitting on your living room couch, with more support.
The Honda's seats are still comfartable for me, just quite a bit firmer and yes, a little short in the thigh support. When my foot is on the dead pedal in the Pilot, my leg is bent just slightly more that 90 degrees. In the Sienna, almost 130 degrees (quite a bit straighter).
The Honda's seats would be somewhat uncomfortable on a long trip - but we drive our Sienna for long trips. For trips up to an hour, and around town, it is great. I am just spoiled by the comfort of the Sienna.
I agree whole heartedly with alan_s. I own both an 06 Avalon Touring and an 06 Pilot EX with AWD. I find that with each day I am a little more satisfied with the Pilot and the Avalon slips. The fit and finish is marginally better on the Pilot. The Avalon simply has a rougher running engine and frankly the electronically controlled transmission is junk. HOWEVER - 280 hp on premium fuel makes the Avalon a blast to drive. Car and Driver clocked the Touring at 0-60 in 6 seconds which betters many V-8 sports cars. Regardless, if you need space and utility you won't sacrifice anything by taking the Pilot.
To the taller folks concerned about room in the Pilot, I am 6'5" with long legs and have no issues. The 06 actually seems a little better that the 03 we traded. The seat pan design is a little different.
Hello. I appreciate your feedback. Helpful but, regrettably, what I thought might be the case.
Our 'trip' car is my wife's '02 Odyssey and it just isn't very comfortable for me after a little time on the road. Mostly because of the short seat bolster.
Unfortunately the Pilot fits all other family needs so I may have to get used to short seats.
I read somewhere (sorry I don't recall where) that the bottom cushions of the '06 Pilot front seats are two inches longer than the old seats. If true, this should be a significant improvement in thigh support for taller drivers. I would also like to hear from a tall driver that has compared the old vs. new seats.
Hi there, I have been scanning the messages to see if anyone else has noticed this problem. My 6'3" husband test drove the Pilot for the average 20 minute test drive and didn't notice the problem at that time. Now we have had our new Pilot for 5 days and every time he drives it he is totally uncomfortable, leg is sore, foot even numb a bit. It's that the seat is too short under his thigh and gives him no support. We are both pretty upset about it - we just spent a bundle of $$ on something that we are happy with otherwise, but how can he put up with this discomfort for the next several years? He actually went to the dealership yesterday to sit in the Ridgeline and Odyssey to see if we could possibly trade it in, but we would take a huge loss on it now, with all the sales tax we just paid - it's pretty upsetting!
Any ideas for how to make the seat more comfie for him? He's tried every position available, towels, blankets, etc. Any advice would be soooooo appreciated!
alan, first off, I can't believe you are comparing a Pilot with an Avalon. This is comparing apples to pumpkins.
2nd, I'll take you word for that you had a bad experience with Toyota, but it's definitely an exception and not the rule. Toyota has a very high quality record right up there with Honda.
I'm a big fan of Honda but wouldn't bother trashing Toyota. IMO the two companies focus on feel; i.e. Honda lets you feel the road while Toyota insulates your ride. As for quality, they bot get high marks from all the car reviews and publications out there.
Did your husband find Ridgeline and/or Odyssey to be more comfortable than the Pilot? My understanding is that there isn't much difference between the '06 Pilot driver's seat and the Odyssey/Ridgeline seats.
My wife and I are seriously considering purchasing the 06 Pilot, EX-L AWD with DVD. I have heard numerous complaints regarding the OEM tires, Goodyear Integrity. I would like to switch the tires (same size) out after we purchase it. I was wondering how the TPMS works and where the sensor is located??? I would like to think that switching out the tires would not disrupt the TPMS.
Nope, swapping the tires out won't affect the TPMS. Now, if you want to change the rims to 22" rims (or any other aftermarket rims), you will end up disabling the TPMS.
Make sure you try the tires for a while (unless you can make a deal with your dealer) The Goodyears are a little noisy, but I don't get a sense that changing the tires is suddenly going to make the Pilot into a Lexus! (If anyone thinks otherwise please chime in!)
Well, you can flip the coin over and ask, "Why put up with crappy tires for 20-30,000 miles?" This may be half or more of the total time you own the car!
Most of the tire chains will give you around $40/tire for the OEM tires if you trade them in right after buying the car. And you can typically get a top-of-the-line Michelin or other premium tire for about $140/corner. Net-net, you can re-tire a Pilot for $400 or perhaps a little less if you bargain or get the new tires for a good deal.
$400 isn't a whole lot to spend for a big upgrade like this. And at 30K, when the cheap OEM tires are completely shagged, you'll probably have 50% or more left of the premium tires (e.g., Michelin LTX's are typically good for 80K+). So the actual cost during that first 30K to ride on good tires rather than crappy tires is more like $200.
$200 to have excellent tires rather than the cheap OEM tires during that first 30K miles? Seems like one hell of a bargain to me.
Thanks to all who have responded. I feel much better now.
The deal the tire place has offered me is they will give me $69.00 per OEM tire. The tires I am looking at (Yokohama Geolander HT-S) are about $105.00 per tire. All said and done, I'm looking at about $220.00 to switch out the tires. I think it's a good deal. Everyone's thoughts are welcomed.
other than the inferior tire wearing faster, what else do you see wrong with it? If it gives you piece of mind then by all means go for it.
As for dollars and cents I would like to think you can get more than $40 of wear out of the inferior tire.
btw: you think you can get 80k miles out of a set of Michelins on your Pilot? Just because the warranty says 80k miles doesn't mean it actually lasts that long.
Others can chime in here - have you ever had a set of tires on an SUV lasting past 50k miles?
We got 50k out of the Integritys. They could have gone about another 10-15k, but I wanted to try something that handled better. The Michelin Cross-Terrains have performed far better, but probably are a little noisier than the Goodyears. We have 30k on those now, but we have more than 50% of the tread left. Hope we can get 60k miles out of the Michelins if we keep the Pilot that long.
We currently have 45k on our Firestones that came standard on our Tahoe and they are far from needing replacement. I'll guess they will make 70k.
The standard Uniroyal Larado Tires on my 91 s-15 jimmy lasted until 80k. The cheap replacements lasted 85k. On my Subaru Outback I replaced OEM Firestones at about 65k.
So yes I typically get way more than 50K miles on a set of tires. None were worn to the wear bars. I replaced them well before that.
Tires are not a commodity like gasoline or electricity. Different tires can have a profound and dramatic effect on a vehicle's performance.
The Pilot's OEM GY's and BS's are not well regarded. Personally, I thought the stock BS's that came on my 2006 Pilot (rated 59th out of 64 tires in Tire Rack's survey) were some of the worst handling tires I've had on any vehicle. Now to the BS's credit, they were slightly quieter and perhaps rode a little smoother than the Michelins so there are tradeoffs.
On the mileage issue, the SUV I had before the Pilot (ML320) wore out its stock General tires in 30K. I replaced them with Michelin LTX's and at 60K additional miles, they still looked pretty good... I have no doubt whatsoever they'd have easily made 80K. The Nissan Pathfinder I had prior to the ML wore out its Goodyears in 28K with wires protruding from the sidewalls. And I have a friend who has 500K+ miles on a 1990 Ford Explorer who replaces LTX's like clockwork at about 110K.
I'm convinced that OEM tires on bread-and-butter cars like the Pilot are selected to reduce Honda's production costs, not to provide the best tire for the car. They're acceptable for a family vehicle, but definitely not up to the standards of the better tires available.
'93 Chevy Suburban, Michelin Tires, 49,xxx and still holding after SIX years. (in ARIZONA) :shades: I'm sold! Big, Expensive, and worth every dime! My little Honda Accord has shredded two sets of tires in that time, I finally switched to the Michelins
Has anyone found the Cargo Cover for a great price from a 3rd party vendor. I need the cover, but can't stomach forking over $150 for a "drape" to the dealer.
Thanks for you insights, I hit H and A, which was $50 cheaper but shipping cut that saving in half.
OK ok, you've convinced me that there are tires that can go a long ways - but heck if I've ever had that kind of success.
I'll have to look at tires differently next time. I do a good job of monitoring pressure and rotating and usually study consumer reports before buying.
I subscribe to Consumer Reports, but if there is one testing area I think they are in over their head, it's tire testing. Given all the variables involved, I think the Tire Rack's shotgun approach of collecting a very large number of owner experiences and presenting averages is probably the best you can do.
And I've owned perhaps ten different tire brands in my life and the only brand that has consistently never given me the slightest problem has been Michelin.
The pilot is our second car (Odyssey main family car), and I have 4 kids, two in car seats and two in boosters. In the 3rd row on the 40% seat (passenger side) the booster seat is just about flush with the seat belt and it is very difficult for my child to buckle themselves.
Usually, I have to slide the booster seat forward, buckle, slide it back.
Now my kids have booster seats with slide-out cup holders etc, so I am not sure if we just have a wider than normal booster seat or if we would experience this with "any-style" of booster seat. Are booster seats standard width or should I go out and get a "slimmer" seat?
Yes, we found the Ridgeline to be much more comfortable, not only in the seats, but the leg room is a bit (wee-bit, but still a bit) better and the configuration of the center console makes it better for him. Our dealer did us a huge favor and rolled back the sale of the Pilot (including sales tax) and took it as a trade in, debiting us $1500 and selling us a Ridgeline under invoice. So we are out some money, but that can't buy enough comfort to make the Pilot worth driving for several years. We are much happier, I just wanted to post this as a warning for tall drivers thinking of a Pilot. It is a great car in every other way though!
I have the same problem. It's a pain because I have to buckle the seatbelt if I put a booster in that position. I started putting the boosters in the 2nd row which makes life much easier.
I just got a Pilot EX-L with RES and it included a cargo net. However, the net is not the same as the one that you can buy as an accessory. It only seems to work as a cargo cover (using the floor anchors) and not able to be used as a cargo holder (using 2 anchors on floor and two up higher). Did I get the right type of cargo net with my Pilot?
The switch to a different head lamp for 2006, as compared to my 2004 Pilot has been a visibility problem since day one. When driving down an unlit road and you hit a dip in the road, you loose all visibility. The dealer stated that this is the new headlight design. The problem is a defined line in front of the car with light below and darkness above.
Mechanics Illustrated just reported that all these headlights are faulty, including many other manufacturers that use the same design, in that the headlight manufacturer forgot to put a reflector behind the bulb.
Does anyone have the same problem or know when it will be recalled?
Do you have a reference for the Mechanics Illustrated article?
These sharp cutoff headlights are supposed to be an improvement by putting more light on the near field without so much glare to oncoming drivers. I found them odd initially, but I've adjusted to them fine.
I wouldn't hold your breath on a recall as I think it's a design tradeoff, not a defect.
Recently bought the 2006 Pilot EX and so far I am happy with my choice however one reason for opting for th EX spec was the XM ready radio thinking I might like to add at some point. However the dealer forgot to mention that they would charge in excess of $700. Is it just me or is this insane?
Comments
• Driver’s seat with 8-way power and lumbar adjustment
-LX is 6-way manual adjustment
If I'm the only driver of the pilot and I set LX seat to fit me comfortably will I get the same comfort level of the EX's driver seat? Power adjustments to me are for cars used by different drivers, I dont see the need if only one driver is going to use it.
* The comfort of the seat is fine to me. If my wife uses the Pilot, it's a simple adjustment back and forth.
• XM Ready/6-disc in-dash CD with 7 speakers including subwoofer
-LX has the AM/FM/1-disc cd player with 4 speakers
* Would be nice to have the better sound system, but not a necessity to me. The LX sound system is adequate, but not great.
• Front and rear synchronized automatic climate control system
-LX it's manual front and separate manual rear controls
* Again, would be nice to have, but not a necessity for me.
• Upgraded 16-inch alloy wheels
-Anyone know where i could find pics on the net for the LX's painted alloy wheels?
* I'm real happy w/ the LX painted alloy wheels. To the average person, you can't tell the difference - or at least I can't.
• Fog lights
-Can you get this as an option on the LX?
* You can add these. Check hondaaccessories.com Some other sites offer Pilot equipment as well so you can shop for pricing.
• security system
-The LX has remote entry and panic alarm
What is a panic alarm and what exactly is Honda putting in the "security system"? I'm a newbie to this stuff so more info greatly appreciated...
* The panic alarm is on your key and can be pressed to set off the horn in a dire situation. There may be more to it - I really haven't investigated all the security functions of the panic alarm or security system. The honda site I referred to above can give you an overview of the security system that can be added to the LX.
• Home link
-I have no idea what this is, so please explain...
* I wasn't interested in this, so I didn't really pay attention during the sales pitch, but my understanding is that this is an electronic system that can be linked to things like your garage door or lighting system at home so you can open your garage door, turn on the lights, etc, w/ the push of a button in the vehicle.
• rear window tint
-LX will have light tint
* I don't notice much of a tint to the LX windows. If there's one thing I may do to our LX it is get window tinting on the back 5 windows. We'll see.
• roof rails
-Can you get this as an option on the LX?
* Yes. You can purchase these off the honda accessories website and others.
• body colored mirrors and door handles (versus black in the LX)
-This is the one extra feature I wish the LX had, coz painting will chip off sooner or later if you do it. And are there any pics on the net of LX's? Honda.com shows the EX pics only even as LX examples.
* I bought a black LX, so that took care of that problem....
• body colored rear spoiler (versus black in the LX)
-Are there any pics on the net for this?
* Same as my response above. You may be able to track down a picture on a dealer website.
• 2nd row activity tray
-Are there any pics on the net for this?
* I'm not familiar w/ this.
• conversation mirror/sunglass holder
-There isn't a sunglass holder on LX's?
* There is a sunglass holder above the rear view mirror on the LX.
• cargo net included
-Can I buy this aftermarket?
* Yes. Check the accessories site.
• EX has 2 more cupholders than the LX
-So which seating positions don't have the cupholders,the middle seats in 2nd and 3rd rows?
* Not sure. I never checked.
Oh I also think that the EX dimensions are a little wider and taller by only an inch and the EX has exeterior temperature sensor
* I'm not sure.
As for 2WD and 4WD, do you guys think that the 2WD will be good enough to travel once in a while to Lake Tahoe or snowy terrain or is the 4WD really necessary in this kind of climate?
* Not sure. Being in North Carolina w/ minimal winters compared to where I grew up in NY, I couldn't justify the 4WD. Most say 4WD is better for resale, but I'll drive this into the ground so resale was not a concern for me. LX 2WD will get you slightly better gas mileage if that's a concern for you.
Thanks for any info you can provide.
I like the power seat and use the lumbar but it's not essential. Same with alloy wheels and CD changer (it's nice but not critical).
Fog lights, rails and cargo net can be purchased separately if you desire. Window tinting can be done but this is one area I like to get from the factory (not a huge deal).
I do enjoy the synchronized automatic climate control system but again it's not essential.
Not sure on cupholders but I suspect the two extra are from the activity tray, which is a fold-down portion of the center 2nd row seat that has a tray and two cupholders for kids or passengers. It's pretty convenient but not a show-stopper.
Body colored items are pretty much for looks. Conversation mirror is nice for kids but not essential.
HomeLink is nice b/c you don't have to put your garage remote on your visor.
Security system is just a basic one (doors opened while armed and alarm goes off) but it's nice piece of mind I guess. You could do an aftermarket one. EX may be taller but I think that's just b/c of the roof rack.
What I will say is that if you want most of these things (or would like them) then the package is a pretty good value (vs. separate options). If you don't care about most of them, then why waste the money?
The 4WD question is tough b/c it depends on your own needs, uses and climate but it is a good system.
Since you live in California, Pistonhonda, you know the highway patrol can be pretty picky about road closures and chain requirements in the mountains. They may see your Pilot and assume it's a 4WD and let you pass without chaining up, but then you still have to deal with the snow somehow.
I guess it boils down to how often you expect to go to Tahoe in the winter and how you feel about changing your plans if a big storm blows in. Although you could be hanging out there and get a surprise dump, while your rig is sitting in an unplowed lot. :shades:
Steve, Host
I really don't need much of the additions/replacements that they put into the EX but as 01mdx put it, aftermarket installations aren't up to par with manufacturer installs all the time. And I'd really like to have the Pilot in silver so in the end I probably can't deal with putting up with the black side mirrors and door handles.So I'm gonna have to go with an EX...now the 2WD or 4WD predicament :confuse:
Steve, I've only been in snow when on vacation to New York and that was when it was still light snows maybe as thin as 2" never like the ones people see in the news where it pours and pours so I was wondering if I had a 2WD on chains, the CHP wouldn't let me pass? But if I had a 4WD on chains, they would let me go thru even if the snow poured? I've never been to Tahoe thats why I'm just getting an SUV to make roadtrips to Tahoe and LA possible and more enjoyable. When I get this Pilot, its going to be traveling once a year to Tahoe just for the kids to play in the snow so I'm not really after the thick of winter. Just 2-3" of snow on the ground is fine for us but I really wanted them to enjoy ski season(never skied either
TY guys...
You could always have your mirrors and door handles painted to match at a body shop - how's that for throwing another wrinkle your way? :shades:
Steve, Host
'stuff' that I want to have with me, just not visible and rattling around in the back cargo bay (with 3rd seat folded).
Any ideas?
Also, do you have any ideas for a trash bag? Thanks
My wife's choosing and paying for this so from what I've heard her comment on so far, my guess is she's leaning on a 2WD EX. On the other hand, looking at the one LX pic on honda.com that I found, the LX is for me with just a couple of add-ons.
I'd rather have the 4WD LX seeing that the 2WD EX even cost a little over the 4WD LX. But since money talks and I'm only a stay-at-home dad for now, she has all the say in the world.
So thanks guys and hope to drive a nice Pilot soon.
We went and bought a "cargo cover" from a local Honda dealer. It can go behind either the 2nd or 3rd seat and will also stow away where the head rests hide. It was about $140 with a 10% off coupon. Hides everything well.
If anybody out there has had an LX for awhile, I'd like to hear your opinion on the seating comfort, having lived with it for a bit. I'm considering buying the LX mostly because the manually adjusted driver's seat of the LX can be moved farther back ( 3 to 4 inches, believe it or not) than the EX and EX-L power seat.
The nail in the coffin was our 2005 Avalon XLS which has shoddy build quality (rattles galore), a sloppy and hesitant drive-by-wire system and a confused slip, slide and bang transmission. We decided not to risk a Toyota again because obviously "Toyota quality" is history.
Glad we did - the Pilot is solidly constructed and the engine and transmission are extremely refined and well integrated. It is very responsive, smooth and quiet and feels and handles more like a big luxury car than an SUV. Everything is well assembled and functions with fine precision. Very impressive. Toyota - time to take lessons from Honda.
I guess we'll be buying Hondas from now on.
However, I needed a larger cabin for my kids and the Pilot was far better suited for that than the Highlander.
Drive em both and decide.
My assessment of which car has the advantage:
Handling: As expected, being a car the Avalon is better. It is very well damped, well controlled and sure-footed. Its not a Corvette but I think the handling is excellent. Does not feel like a big car, except when backing up. Rear visibilty is poor.
Power: Avalon. Enough power to blast you into the next galaxy at warp speed before Jean Luc Picard could finish saying "Engage". This thing could well exceed the speed of light!
Braking: Pilot requires less pedal effort.
Steering: Avalon is more precise. Pilot has a bit of a wander on the freeway.
Ride: Pilot is smoother - believe it or not!
Quietness: Pilot is much quieter at idle. It is almost silent. Avalon is somewhat quieter at low speeds but at highway speeds they are almost equal. More wind noise in the Pilot. The Avalon engine is rougher and noiser than the Pilot's.
Comfort: Avalon is supremely comfortable. Lots of room to spread out and the interior is extremely well designed and very attractive. Possibly the best interior this side of $50,000.
Refinement: Pilot!
Ergonomics: Avalon.
Throttle response/drivetrain: Pilot.
Fit, finish & material quality: Pilot.
Trunk space: Avalon, or Pilot if the 3rd row is folded.
Summary: I enjoy driving the Pilot more than the Avalon, and I am a car person!
Hello. Noticed you were 6'7" and interested in your opinion on O6 Pilot seats. I am 6'6" and have noted other conversations about the EX vs LX for leg room.
My issue with pre-06 Pilots (and other mid-sized SUVs) has been the seat bottom. It doesn't extend far enough to provide adequate support for my legs.
How is the 06 in this regard. Anybody have an opinion on the driver seats in 06s vs earlier years?
Are there aftermarket seats available for the Pilot?
Thanks, your thoughts are welcome.
Richard
Believe it or not I have never tried the LX to compare legroom. The Pilot is my wife's (5'6") car, but I drive it on the weekends. I love that it has a sunroof and I can fit with the sunshade closed. We never had a car with a sunroof for that reason.
I drive an '04 Sienna all week and I will admit, it feels good to go from the Pilot to the Sienna on Monday mornings. The Sienna has more leg room than the EXL Pilot. Driving in the Sienna is like sitting on your living room couch, with more support.
The Honda's seats are still comfartable for me, just quite a bit firmer and yes, a little short in the thigh support. When my foot is on the dead pedal in the Pilot, my leg is bent just slightly more that 90 degrees. In the Sienna, almost 130 degrees (quite a bit straighter).
The Honda's seats would be somewhat uncomfortable on a long trip - but we drive our Sienna for long trips. For trips up to an hour, and around town, it is great. I am just spoiled by the comfort of the Sienna.
Hope this helps!!
-Howard
To the taller folks concerned about room in the Pilot, I am 6'5" with long legs and have no issues. The 06 actually seems a little better that the 03 we traded. The seat pan design is a little different.
Hello. I appreciate your feedback. Helpful but, regrettably, what I thought might be the case.
Our 'trip' car is my wife's '02 Odyssey and it just isn't very comfortable for me after a little time on the road. Mostly because of the short seat bolster.
Unfortunately the Pilot fits all other family needs so I may have to get used to short seats.
Thanks,
Richard
Any ideas for how to make the seat more comfie for him? He's tried every position available, towels, blankets, etc. Any advice would be soooooo appreciated!
Chandra
first off, I can't believe you are comparing a Pilot with an Avalon. This is comparing apples to pumpkins.
2nd, I'll take you word for that you had a bad experience with Toyota, but it's definitely an exception and not the rule. Toyota has a very high quality record right up there with Honda.
I'm a big fan of Honda but wouldn't bother trashing Toyota. IMO the two companies focus on feel; i.e. Honda lets you feel the road while Toyota insulates your ride. As for quality, they bot get high marks from all the car reviews and publications out there.
Your responses are much appreciated.
PD
Make sure you try the tires for a while (unless you can make a deal with your dealer) The Goodyears are a little noisy, but I don't get a sense that changing the tires is suddenly going to make the Pilot into a Lexus! (If anyone thinks otherwise please chime in!)
Good luck
tom
are the tires so bad that you can't wait 20-30,000 miles?
You might as well add $600 to the cost of your new car.
Most of the tire chains will give you around $40/tire for the OEM tires if you trade them in right after buying the car. And you can typically get a top-of-the-line Michelin or other premium tire for about $140/corner. Net-net, you can re-tire a Pilot for $400 or perhaps a little less if you bargain or get the new tires for a good deal.
$400 isn't a whole lot to spend for a big upgrade like this. And at 30K, when the cheap OEM tires are completely shagged, you'll probably have 50% or more left of the premium tires (e.g., Michelin LTX's are typically good for 80K+). So the actual cost during that first 30K to ride on good tires rather than crappy tires is more like $200.
$200 to have excellent tires rather than the cheap OEM tires during that first 30K miles? Seems like one hell of a bargain to me.
- Mark
The deal the tire place has offered me is they will give me $69.00 per OEM tire. The tires I am looking at (Yokohama Geolander HT-S) are about $105.00 per tire. All said and done, I'm looking at about $220.00 to switch out the tires. I think it's a good deal. Everyone's thoughts are welcomed.
As for dollars and cents I would like to think you can get more than $40 of wear out of the inferior tire.
btw: you think you can get 80k miles out of a set of Michelins on your Pilot? Just because the warranty says 80k miles doesn't mean it actually lasts that long.
Others can chime in here - have you ever had a set of tires on an SUV lasting past 50k miles?
The standard Uniroyal Larado Tires on my 91 s-15 jimmy lasted until 80k. The cheap replacements lasted 85k. On my Subaru Outback I replaced OEM Firestones at about 65k.
So yes I typically get way more than 50K miles on a set of tires. None were worn to the wear bars. I replaced them well before that.
--jay
The Pilot's OEM GY's and BS's are not well regarded. Personally, I thought the stock BS's that came on my 2006 Pilot (rated 59th out of 64 tires in Tire Rack's survey) were some of the worst handling tires I've had on any vehicle. Now to the BS's credit, they were slightly quieter and perhaps rode a little smoother than the Michelins so there are tradeoffs.
On the mileage issue, the SUV I had before the Pilot (ML320) wore out its stock General tires in 30K. I replaced them with Michelin LTX's and at 60K additional miles, they still looked pretty good... I have no doubt whatsoever they'd have easily made 80K. The Nissan Pathfinder I had prior to the ML wore out its Goodyears in 28K with wires protruding from the sidewalls. And I have a friend who has 500K+ miles on a 1990 Ford Explorer who replaces LTX's like clockwork at about 110K.
I'm convinced that OEM tires on bread-and-butter cars like the Pilot are selected to reduce Honda's production costs, not to provide the best tire for the car. They're acceptable for a family vehicle, but definitely not up to the standards of the better tires available.
- Mark
Thanks for you insights, I hit H and A, which was $50 cheaper but shipping cut that saving in half.
Thanks,
I'll have to look at tires differently next time. I do a good job of monitoring pressure and rotating and usually study consumer reports before buying.
And I've owned perhaps ten different tire brands in my life and the only brand that has consistently never given me the slightest problem has been Michelin.
- Mark
The pilot is our second car (Odyssey main family car), and I have 4 kids, two in car seats and two in boosters. In the 3rd row on the 40% seat (passenger side) the booster seat is just about flush with the seat belt and it is very difficult for my child to buckle themselves.
Usually, I have to slide the booster seat forward, buckle, slide it back.
Now my kids have booster seats with slide-out cup holders etc, so I am not sure if we just have a wider than normal booster seat or if we would experience this with "any-style" of booster seat. Are booster seats standard width or should I go out and get a "slimmer" seat?
Has anyone else encountered this?
tom
Mechanics Illustrated just reported that all these headlights are faulty, including many other manufacturers that use the same design, in that the headlight manufacturer forgot to put a reflector behind the bulb.
Does anyone have the same problem or know when it will be recalled?
It is the strangest thing, as the there is a very significant line in the horizon seperating light and dark. It is very strange.
These sharp cutoff headlights are supposed to be an improvement by putting more light on the near field without so much glare to oncoming drivers. I found them odd initially, but I've adjusted to them fine.
I wouldn't hold your breath on a recall as I think it's a design tradeoff, not a defect.
- Mark