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The Honda Pilot is built in Lincoln, Alabama. The first generation Pilot was released in 2002 and in 2006 it got a new front and rear fascias, a redesigned interior, and various standard safety features. The second generation Pilot was released in 2008. The Pilot is Honda's largest SUV, although the 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour was bigger in length. The Pilot has been a key success for Honda, selling over 100,000 vehicles in 2004, an increase of almost 20% compared to 2003.
The first generation Pilot was introduced for the 2003 model year, making this Honda one of the first mid-size crossover SUVs available with a third-row seat. It has a 240 horse power, 3.5-liter V6 engine. From 2003-2005, all Pilots sold, were AWD.
Honda originally offered the Pilot in three trim levels: LX, EX and EX-L. The Pilot LX came with a decent set of features, while the EX added upgrades like a power driver seat and automatic climate control. The EX-L had leather seating and could be upgraded with a navigation system or rear-seat entertainment system. This generation Pilot, costs between $15,000-$30,000.
The new, second generation, and larger Pilot is available in four models; LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. It is assembled at Honda Manufacturing, Alabama. It received a new 3.5L V6 VTEC engine compared to the first generation. It also has a new grill shape, much of the interior has changed; getting a climate control system, new two-position memory settings for the driver's seat, a new power tailgate, and the gear shift moved from the steering column to the center console. It also has a third-row seating. The Touring offers a new 115-volt power outlet and a Satellite-Linked Honda Navigation System.The price range for these model starts from $28,000 to $40,000.
In my opinion, I think the second generation, 2009-present Honda Pilot is better compared to the 2003-2008 models. I think this because of the new and imroved features added. I also like this model due to the interior and exterior design. Lastly, I have the second generation, the 2010, Honda Pilot, so I know it's a great SUV, gives great mileage and is great for traveling, making long and short trips anywhere.