Honda Pilot

Quick, comfortable, and refined, the third-generation Pilot is not exactly a joy to drive. Its three-row seating configuration, roomy cabin, and abundant interior storage make it an extremely functional vehicle. Power comes from a slick 3.5-liter V6 that is rated at 280 hp. We got 20 mpg overall in our tests of an EX-L with the standard six-speed automatic. We found the ride to be comfortable but handling ungainly, doing little to hide the Pilot's bulk. The knob-less touch screen infotainment system is unintuitive. Touring and Elite trims get a nine-speed that doesn't shift very smoothly and is stuck with an unintuitive push-button gear selector. Front- and all-wheel drive are offered, and the optional Honda Sensing safety system includes forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Only top trips get blind spot monitoring; some lower trims get LaneWatch, a camera-based system that is less useful and more distracting.

The Pilot grew a bit with the 2009 redesign and gained a more truck-like appearance. Still, its boxy shape helped it retain the ability of accommodating eight passengers or lots of cargo. The third row is a bit tight, but usable for kids and preteens. Unfortunately, the interior isn't as well finished in this second generation with flimsy-looking plastics. Look for an EX model with leather seats, since they hold up better and make sure you get the available rear-view camera, a must in any tall SUV. Handling isn't particularly agile, but the car steers responsively and remains secure. It also rides comfortably, has a slick powertrain and gets 18 mpg overall. Road noise is pronounced, making the cabin loud. By the end, the Pilot was rather outdated, lacking modern safety gear and scoring Poor in the IIHS small overlap crash test.

The Pilot combines the best virtues of a wagon, SUV, and minivan. It offers three-row seating, eight-passenger capacity and all-wheel-drive. The slick V6 delivers punchy performance, yet respectable fuel economy. The Pilot also serves up a comfortable ride in combination with secure handling. Pronounced road noise makes it a rather loud vehicle, especially on grooved pavement or concrete slabs. The standard split third-row seat folds neatly into the floor to create more cargo room. Otherwise, with the third row up, there's very little room for stuff. Access is easy due to the relatively low step-in height. The interior is simple, but well put-together and offers lots of cubbies and bins. Be sure to get an EX version with leather since it holds up better than cloth over time. Expect 18 mpg overall. Get a 2006 or newer version for its standard stability control.