Model Strengths:
Flexible and roomy interior; comfortable ride; fuel efficiency (2WD); 4WD model's traction and ground clearance good for snow.

Model Changes:
New Value Package (VP) and Special Edition (SE) models of the Honda Pilot sport ute are available for 2008. The VP replaces the LX model as the base model in the lineup, while the SE slots between the EX and top-of-the-line EXL. The SP model now includes machined alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, XM satellite radio, steering-wheel audio controls, and an upgraded audio system with CD changer and subwoofer.Otherwise the Pilot is carried over to 2008 with few other changes.

Model Value:
The 2008 Honda Pilot pairs a spacious, minivan-like interior with good ground clearance and an available all-wheel-drive system that's suitable for deep snow. Its carlike underpinnings also give it crisper handling than many mid-size SUVs, along with a smooth ride. And with an EPA highway rating of 22 mpg, the 2WD Pilot with the fuel-saving VCM system is among the most fuel-efficient mid-size SUVs.

Model Overview:
All 2008 Honda Pilots are available with either front-wheel drive or a VTM-4 four-wheel drive system that provides front-wheel drive on dry pavement but sends power to the rear wheels in low-traction situations. It also includes a lock mode to consistently send power to the rear wheels for low-speed, low-traction situations such as snow or sand. Power for all Pilots is provided by a 3.5L, all-aluminum V6 making 244 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic.Front-wheel-drive Pilots also get the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system, which deactivates three of the engine's six cylinders during cruising or deceleration, to increase fuel efficiency-indicated by an "Eco" light on the dash. The system helps make the 2WD Pilot among the best for mid-size SUVs, with an EPA highway rating of 22 mpg. Pilots with VCM also get a sophisticated, audio-system-based active noise cancellation system, along with an active control engine mount system to help cancel out any extra noise and vibration that the system introduces.The Pilot has an independent front and rear suspension and uni-body structure, along with four-wheel disc brakes and standard 16-inch alloy wheels, all to give sharp handling and a carlike ride. Front side air bags, three-row side-curtain bags with a rollover sensor are standard on all Pilots, as are anti-lock brakes, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), and brake assist.The base VP, includes air conditioning, keyless entry, cruise control, a sound system with six-disc changer and steering-wheel controls, roof rails, and power windows and locks. There's seating for eight, with both the second and third rows 60/40-split and foldable to expand the cargo area when they're not in use.The EX adds automatic climate control, power heated mirrors, upgraded front seats, fog lamps, and more cargo-storage extras, such as a tray for the second row, seatback pockets, and a cargo net, tie-downs, and grocery-bag hooks for the cargo area. The new SE model adds a DVD rear entertainment system, a moonroof, XM satellite radio, ambient console lighting, and a 115-volt AC power outlet.The EXL steps up to more luxury equipment, including leather upholstery and a leather steering wheel, a synchronized climate control system, and a moonroof. Top options on the EXL include a rear DVD entertainment system and a voice-recognition navigation system that comes with a rearview camera system.