I wish I could give you more info on the waiting list....all I know is that when I went to the dealer this weekend to inquire about one he kept pushing the 2005's. He almost sold me on one but I had to keep in mind the real reason I wanted the 2006 (saftey enhancements, VCM, etc...)
Anyways, the dealer wanted me to put a $500 deposit down for the exact 2006 model I wanted but refused to dicuss the acutal price of the car. I have no idea why anyone would do this and pay a premium when 2 months later the demand will decrease along with the price.
They said they would knock a little off of the MSRP but nothing like they are doing for the 05s.
My local Honda dealer has about 12 '05 Pilots on his lot - so of course, he's incented to move those cars first and immediately, vs. offering a great deal on an '06 to someone who may change his mind over the next couple of weeks and ask for their deposit back. I really can't say I blame their behavior.
That being said, keep calling other dealers - one may be down to their last '05 and wants to get the '06 model year off to a good start. Sampling only one dealer isn't enough to test what the market will bear on the '06. IMO, you won't get a '06 Pilot for invoice anytime soon - certainly not while they have '05's on the lot. In 90 days - you might. If gas prices remain near $3, a 17 MPG Pilot won't have nearly as much demand as it did at this time last year.
You can safely bet that the moment the "05's are gone the "06 will be more competetively priced and the deals will be around. The demand for the '06 Pilot will be NOTHING like the hybrid SUV's, which are basically sold out for most of their entire production. The premium for a hybrid SUV is mathematically difficult to justify. Once the production of hybrids increases enough to meet the demand and the prices stabilize, then they will be a fantastic choice. I've been informed that the official pricing has not yet been released to the dealers, so it really looks like the 15th is the day it all comes together. If you can be patient for a little while, the prices on the '06 will get better. Then, shop around for the best price. If I hear anything on the prices before the 15th, I'll post them.
Well you guys have strenghthened my conviction. It is better to pay the premium for a Hybrid SUV than to Pilot since atleast the gas price savings will atleast compensate the loss in the case of an Hybrid SUV. Anybody with a better opinion?
On the 2005 Pilots the price difference (base MSRP) between the EX-L and EX-L NAV is $2,000. The additional $200 difference on the 06 EX-L NAV is probably for the rearview camera which comes standard. I will be picking up my Amazon Green EX-L NAV end of September or 1st week of October. $700 over invoice. The total MSRP Price difference between the 05 Pilot and the 06 Pilot is $959.
I picked up one of the 2006 Pilot brochures this weekend from the local Honda dealer and I liked some of the changes made as follows: - 2WD version in now available with the same, Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)system, engine as offered in the Odyssey EX with the Active Control Engine Mount System (ACM) and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system as well, however, these options of VCM, ACM and ANC are not offered on the 4WD engine. Does anyone know why these are not offered on the 4WD model? - XM Satellite Radio is standard equipment on EX models. This is a big plus as you couldn't even add XM radio on the previous EX models with RES. - Larger DVD screen
One thing I did noticed that I cannot find anyone talking about is Honda has reduced the size of the engines in the Pilot and Odyssey from a 255hp to a 244hp? I haven't compared the performance of these engines, however, I am curious if anyone knows why this is since this 255hp engine was just upgraded in 2005?
We are contemplating either the Odyssey or the Pilot, and one of the big items for us that is available in the Pilot but only in the Odyssey Touring model in the Automatic Climate Control for the rear A/C. I am tired of trying to guess if passengers in the rear of the vehicle are too hot or cold, so this is a big plus with the Pilot EX models.
Other than the slight exterior design changes and the additional color Amazon Green, does anyone else know of any good changes?
The official rules for measuring horsepower have recently changed, and many engines are reporting lower HP numbers for their '06 vehicles. The actual engine power is probably the same, just a different way of measuring it.
I picked up one of the 2006 Pilot brochures this weekend from the local Honda dealer and I liked some of the changes made as follows: - 2WD version in now available with the same, Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)system, engine as offered in the Odyssey EX with the Active Control Engine Mount System (ACM) and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system as well, however, these options of VCM, ACM and ANC are not offered on the 4WD engine. Does anyone know why these are not offered on the 4WD model? - XM Satellite Radio is standard equipment on EX models. This is a big plus as you couldn't even add XM radio on the previous EX models with RES. - Larger DVD screen
One thing I did noticed that I cannot find anyone talking about is Honda has reduced the size of the engines in the Pilot and Odyssey from a 255hp to a 244hp? I haven't compared the performance of these engines, however, I am curious if anyone knows why this is since this 255hp engine was just upgraded in 2005?
We are contemplating either the Odyssey or the Pilot, and one of the big items for us that is available in the Pilot but only in the Odyssey Touring model in the Automatic Climate Control for the rear A/C. I am tired of trying to guess if passengers in the rear of the vehicle are too hot or cold, so this is a big plus with the Pilot EX models.
Other than the slight exterior design changes and the additional color Amazon Green, does anyone else know of any good changes?
I also got a brochure from dealer. Unfortunately, I can not find prices listed on college honda, so I would appreciate directions or link. Anyway, it looks like 4wd model would not have VCM available, so there would be no gas advantages to 06 pilots. Any comments on that. I hope I am wrong
I hate those dealer stickers. Most dealers around here do it though. Some go as far as to give you a sticker that goes on the back AND a license plate frame.
I'm glad my recent car purchase only came with a license frame (It's screwed onto the license plate, but at least I have the option of taking it off if I ever feel like it)
My next car purchase could be problematic if I don't want the sticker.. All the local Toyota, Honda, and Nissan dealers do it. Chrysler, Dodge, Chevrolet, and Saturn too.
I am considering buying a pilot; however, I am concerned about reports about Honda not being able to make a reliable and durable automatic transmission. Is my concern well-founded? I would appreciate everyone's input.
You might go through the Honda problems and solutions boards. Personally, I've had 3 Hondas with AT and never had a single issue, but I've never owned one past about 60k miles. Honda keep improving thei AT's, making 5 speeds vs. 4 speeds standard in newer models. I don't think it's much of an issue. That's my .02.
with price set for Pilot 4wd with nav at $35,245 and end of the year MDX on sale for less the invoice (below 38000) - what is the better choice? I am struggling.
I've had my 05 since Jan 05 and have had a couple problems, the front rotors warped but were taken care of, also a seat belt locked up and had to be replaced, everything else has been perfect, the tranny has never had one problem, I get 14.5 mpg city with a/c on driving aggressively, if i'm driving right we get 16 in town, freeway driving we get 21.5 mpg with full load doing 80 mph.
Just sat in an 06Ex and EXL today. Basically the same vehicle as 05, but front and rear ends are diffirent. I like the front better than the 05 and the 06 rear is OK. Side panels have new indented section that adds more character to a fairly conservative vehicle. O5 was a great vehile and 06 is a little better.
Sticker is about the same as 05, but no deals yet, so the 05's are a much better value right now. The dealer had plenty of 05's left, but I am waiting for the 06's to come down.
All three 06 models have side curtain airbags and stability control, which are great safety features. I waited for the 06, because of the curtain bags and stabilty contol on the EX. 05 EXL had sability control, but no curtains and I don't want leather.
New conversation mirror with sunbglass holder on EX and EXL. New alloy wheels are cleaner looking. Side mirrors are slightly smaller and sleaker. Dash is also sleaker and softer than 05 - I like it better. All these are minor improvements, but nice to have.
The lower horsepower may have something to do with the VCM system. I didn't drive an 06, so I don't know if it makes a difference, but I doubt it will be large differnce. EPA estimate is up 1 mpg in city and 2 on highway, which isn't as much as I hoped.
BTW, comapred to the Highlander, Pathfinder and Explorer, Pilot is way above all of them in many areas. Happy shopping! Kim
If I am not mistaken the dealer I am purchasing my Pilot from is getting a Silver 2WD with NAV. If you serious are willing to drive to MD and willing to pay $700 over Invoice, let me know.
Someone had asked me previously if I can post the dealer name and point of contact. I don't have a problem disclosing the name of the dealership and my point of contact at the dealership and brak the rules of this forum and get booted...
I thought the 06 being pleated would be better than the perforated leather on the 05, any comments? Also any ideas on what residual will be on 12k/3yr lease? It was 58% on the 05's 2 weeks ago.
The Invoice on 2005 MDX Touring with NAV Including Freight is 38,830.
The Invoice on the 2006 Pilot with NAV Including Freight should be around 32,400 (+/- $50). There is $925 Increase in price.. If you want to go the PILOT route you should be able to get one for $33,100 (approx) + TTL.
If you are able to purchase a MDX with NAV for $1000 below invoice it will be $37,830 +TAX+TTL.
You will have to drive both the vehicles and see which you like best. I compared both of the vehicles, and I didn't notice much difference. I don't want to pay 5k more, for the MDX. I would rather invest the 5k.
My issue was the OnStar and bluetooth on MDX. I can get bluetooth installed, but OnStar. In addition, headrests on 05 Pilot are horrible. On 06 model they look different, any comments on that.
I have not seen one yet, since none of the dealers in VA/MD area have received an 06 Pilot. Maybe they received it and are hiding it to get rid of the 05's. SO I will have to wait for another week or so to see one.
I think the adjustments to the new model are definite improvements. FInally sat in one today. It was the EX-L with 4WD and Nav. I think the interior is superior to the 05. The leather is more plush..I was never a big fan of the perforated leather to begin with. The seats seem more comfortable and more supported. I have seen first hand the sagging in the leather on the 05 and I think the new seats will resolve that issue. The console is upgraded...the dash and doors seem to be more plush and padded, the headrests look much better than the old ones. They are still cut out but it it much more understated. The exterior changes...I was skeptical at first but I actually like them better. Looking at the pics online and the brochure...I was not impressed. At the dealership they had the 06 and the 05 side by side so it was easy to compare and I like the new changes much more in person. Makes it a little more sporty and not as plain as the previous model. Im general, I think all the chnges that were made were improvements. The interior now seems more like the Acura or the Lexus...it was always a great car but now it seem liks you are getting even more for your money. I will be getting the 2WD EX-L as soon as they get one in blue!
Thanks kmballr. I think I'm getting an 06 ex cloth. What about the cloth did you like more than the 05? What color did you see? Is there a cassete tape player and a hookup for an external ipod. If no tape player does anyone know how much one would cost to add on? Does anyone know if Honda is building any gold Pilots yet or what the build dates might be? Thanks
I am the one who asked you previously about the dealership name. Actually, it is not against the rules of the forum to give the general dealership name (people do it routinely on the "prices paid and buying experience" thread. However, you are not supposed to give out the name of a specific sales person. I live in Northern Virginia and would be interested in knowing which dealership is offering the 2006 at $700 over invoice.
I've been waiting for the '06 because of the rear side-curtain airbags, but now I'm wondering whether to opt for the 2WD or the 4WD. Anyone have any opinions as to the safety of one over the other? I live in the Pacific Northwest--no snow, but lots of rain.
I don't have a problem disclosing the name of the dealership. It's Ken Dixon Hionda. However, if you walk in and ask for the price I am getting, you might not be able to. The only reason I am gettng this price is because I have purchased vehicle with this dealer previously. When other dealers in VA were selling the Oddy's for MSRP, I was able to get one for $1000 over invoice from Ken Dixon. I will have to call my point of contact and give him your name. e-mail me if you are interested.
The earliest forseeable time frame for me would be the 2006 Year end closeouts.
The 2007 closeout would be more realistic, especially if I want to get a Civic (commuter, I drive to the office MWF and my wife drives to the office T and TH, so right now with the higher gas prices we drive the Civic daily and leave the two others parked) and family vehicle at the same time.
The Civic LX Auto is a highly unlikely event, and I'll probably be buying locally, since we have quite a few Honda dealers here...
Hopefully your info will help someone though. Right now I'm leaning towards an Odyssey or Sienna. I don't need the SUV image, and the better MPG of both the Sienna and Odyssey are appealing....
I saw an 06 Pilot in person yesterday and the stylistic changes are well done. The new headlights look sharp and I like the metal elements of the grill. Rear tails look like Acura or Ridge though not quite as fancy.
Leather is not perf'd and the headrests are different.
It really seems very similar to the 05 but with some tweaks so you know it is new. If you liked the basic package before (mileage and all) you will still like the 06. If you did not like the 05 for whatever reason, it seems unlikely the minor changes will change your mind.
Comments
Anyways, the dealer wanted me to put a $500 deposit down for the exact 2006 model I wanted but refused to dicuss the acutal price of the car. I have no idea why anyone would do this and pay a premium when 2 months later the demand will decrease along with the price.
They said they would knock a little off of the MSRP but nothing like they are doing for the 05s.
That being said, keep calling other dealers - one may be down to their last '05 and wants to get the '06 model year off to a good start. Sampling only one dealer isn't enough to test what the market will bear on the '06. IMO, you won't get a '06 Pilot for invoice anytime soon - certainly not while they have '05's on the lot. In 90 days - you might. If gas prices remain near $3, a 17 MPG Pilot won't have nearly as much demand as it did at this time last year.
September 8, 2005.
The total MSRP Price difference between the 05 Pilot and the 06 Pilot is $959.
I also told the Internet Sales guy that I don't want to see pinstripes, door etch guard, vin etching, and especially the dealer name sticker.
i'm thinking a Black EX-L Navi AWD with some other accessories....and I'll be trading in my 1999 Green CR-V, but I'm gonna miss the CR-V!
- 2WD version in now available with the same, Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)system, engine as offered in the Odyssey EX with the Active Control Engine Mount System (ACM) and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system as well, however, these options of VCM, ACM and ANC are not offered on the 4WD engine. Does anyone know why these are not offered on the 4WD model?
- XM Satellite Radio is standard equipment on EX models. This is a big plus as you couldn't even add XM radio on the previous EX models with RES.
- Larger DVD screen
One thing I did noticed that I cannot find anyone talking about is Honda has reduced the size of the engines in the Pilot and Odyssey from a 255hp to a 244hp? I haven't compared the performance of these engines, however, I am curious if anyone knows why this is since this 255hp engine was just upgraded in 2005?
We are contemplating either the Odyssey or the Pilot, and one of the big items for us that is available in the Pilot but only in the Odyssey Touring model in the Automatic Climate Control for the rear A/C. I am tired of trying to guess if passengers in the rear of the vehicle are too hot or cold, so this is a big plus with the Pilot EX models.
Other than the slight exterior design changes and the additional color Amazon Green, does anyone else know of any good changes?
Thanks.
- 2WD version in now available with the same, Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)system, engine as offered in the Odyssey EX with the Active Control Engine Mount System (ACM) and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system as well, however, these options of VCM, ACM and ANC are not offered on the 4WD engine. Does anyone know why these are not offered on the 4WD model?
- XM Satellite Radio is standard equipment on EX models. This is a big plus as you couldn't even add XM radio on the previous EX models with RES.
- Larger DVD screen
One thing I did noticed that I cannot find anyone talking about is Honda has reduced the size of the engines in the Pilot and Odyssey from a 255hp to a 244hp? I haven't compared the performance of these engines, however, I am curious if anyone knows why this is since this 255hp engine was just upgraded in 2005?
We are contemplating either the Odyssey or the Pilot, and one of the big items for us that is available in the Pilot but only in the Odyssey Touring model in the Automatic Climate Control for the rear A/C. I am tired of trying to guess if passengers in the rear of the vehicle are too hot or cold, so this is a big plus with the Pilot EX models.
Other than the slight exterior design changes and the additional color Amazon Green, does anyone else know of any good changes?
Thanks.
Anyway, it looks like 4wd model would not have VCM available, so there would be no gas advantages to 06 pilots. Any comments on that. I hope I am wrong
Most dealers around here do it though.
Some go as far as to give you a sticker that goes on the back AND a license plate frame.
I'm glad my recent car purchase only came with a license frame
(It's screwed onto the license plate, but at least I have the option of taking it off if I ever feel like it)
My next car purchase could be problematic if I don't want the sticker..
All the local Toyota, Honda, and Nissan dealers do it. Chrysler, Dodge, Chevrolet, and Saturn too.
What's the point of the sticker anyways?
2006 Honda Pilot Official Pictures
http://www.collegehillshonda.com/pilot/gallery.htm
Honda Pilot Receives New Look and New Technology for 2006
http://www.hondanews.com/CatID2075?mid=2005090946769&mime=asc
2006 Honda Pilot Summary
http://www.hondanews.com/CatID2075?mid=2005090946634&mime=asc
2006 Honda Pilot Prices and EPA Data
http://www.hondanews.com/CatID2075?mid=2005090946478&mime=asc
2006 Honda Pilot Features
http://www.hondanews.com/CatID2075?mid=2005090946286&mime=asc
2006 Honda Pilot Specifications
http://www.hondanews.com/CatID2075?mid=2005090946027&mime=asc
It should have got bigger wheels, they look like 15's in those photos.
It's in the 4th link posted above by player4.
It's added to my list now...
Sticker is about the same as 05, but no deals yet, so the 05's are a much better value right now. The dealer had plenty of 05's left, but I am waiting for the 06's to come down.
All three 06 models have side curtain airbags and stability control, which are great safety features. I waited for the 06, because of the curtain bags and stabilty contol on the EX. 05 EXL had sability control, but no curtains and I don't want leather.
New conversation mirror with sunbglass holder on EX and EXL. New alloy wheels are cleaner looking. Side mirrors are slightly smaller and sleaker. Dash is also sleaker and softer than 05 - I like it better. All these are minor improvements, but nice to have.
The lower horsepower may have something to do with the VCM system. I didn't drive an 06, so I don't know if it makes a difference, but I doubt it will be large differnce. EPA estimate is up 1 mpg in city and 2 on highway, which isn't as much as I hoped.
BTW, comapred to the Highlander, Pathfinder and Explorer, Pilot is way above all of them in many areas. Happy shopping! Kim
Also new are fog lights on EX and EXL and maintenace monitor system on all three models.
Forgot to mention brake assist is also standard on all three models. Nice safety addition.
Also, I like the 06 cloth in EX better, but I don't like the 06 leather better.
Hope this helps. Best regards, Kim
Someone had asked me previously if I can post the dealer name and point of contact. I don't have a problem disclosing the name of the dealership and my point of contact at the dealership and brak the rules of this forum and get booted...
The Invoice on 2005 MDX Touring with NAV Including Freight is 38,830.
The Invoice on the 2006 Pilot with NAV Including Freight should be around 32,400 (+/- $50). There is $925 Increase in price.. If you want to go the PILOT route you should be able to get one for $33,100 (approx) + TTL.
If you are able to purchase a MDX with NAV for $1000 below invoice it will be
$37,830 +TAX+TTL.
You will have to drive both the vehicles and see which you like best. I compared both of the vehicles, and I didn't notice much difference. I don't want to pay 5k more, for the MDX. I would rather invest the 5k.
I am the one who asked you previously about the dealership name. Actually, it is not against the rules of the forum to give the general dealership name (people do it routinely on the "prices paid and buying experience" thread. However, you are not supposed to give out the name of a specific sales person. I live in Northern Virginia and would be interested in knowing which dealership is offering the 2006 at $700 over invoice.
I don't have a problem disclosing the name of the dealership. It's Ken Dixon Hionda. However, if you walk in and ask for the price I am getting, you might not be able to. The only reason I am gettng this price is because I have purchased vehicle with this dealer previously. When other dealers in VA were selling the Oddy's for MSRP, I was able to get one for $1000 over invoice from Ken Dixon. I will have to call my point of contact and give him your name. e-mail me if you are interested.
The earliest forseeable time frame for me would be the 2006 Year end closeouts.
The 2007 closeout would be more realistic, especially if I want to get a Civic (commuter, I drive to the office MWF and my wife drives to the office T and TH, so right now with the higher gas prices we drive the Civic daily and leave the two others parked) and family vehicle at the same time.
The Civic LX Auto is a highly unlikely event, and I'll probably be buying locally, since we have quite a few Honda dealers here...
Hopefully your info will help someone though. Right now I'm leaning towards an Odyssey or Sienna. I don't need the SUV image, and the better MPG of both the Sienna and Odyssey are appealing....
Leather is not perf'd and the headrests are different.
It really seems very similar to the 05 but with some tweaks so you know it is new. If you liked the basic package before (mileage and all) you will still like the 06. If you did not like the 05 for whatever reason, it seems unlikely the minor changes will change your mind.