Honda Cars : More Misc. Info. on the 2009 Honda Pilot | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

The Pilot's top-hinged tailgate design is improved with the addition of lift-up glass hatch for improved access to the cargo area. The glass hatch can be opened via the remote key fob (on the Pilot LX, EX, EX-L), a button on the top right side of the license plate garnish, or a button inside the vehicle located on the lower part of the driver's door. The tailgate glass incorporates an electric defogger system, activated by a button on the dash, along with an intermittent rear wiper and washer nozzle.

Every 2nd generation Pilot includes an integrated tow hitch as standard equipment. The Class III hitch supports a maximum tow rating of 4,500 pounds (2,045 kg) on four-wheel-drive models and 3,500 pounds (1,590 kg) on the two-wheel-drive LX. To supplement the Pilot's towing capability, standard cooling equipment includes a high-capacity radiator with dual high-power fans, transmission cooler and power steering cooler. The Pilot 4WD's 4,500-pound (2,045 kg) rating is calculated to include up to four passengers and their cargo. Pre-wiring is included for trailer lighting and an electric brake controller. Pilot Touring models are equipped with a 7-pin trailer unit and harness.

The primary heating, air conditioning and ventilation (HVAC) controls are located on one easy-to-use panel in the centre instrument console and include individual controls for temperature, fan speed, vent selection (centre, floor and defogger vents), rear electric defogger and fresh or recirculated air. Independent control of the rear HVAC unit is standard. To maximize passenger comfort, the Pilot LX features a front and rear air conditioning system with air filtration. The controls for the rear zone are conveniently located on the rear of the front console.