The second-generation Pilot reflects a complete re-design of the original that debuted in the 2003 model year. As a bigger Pilot (gaining in length, width and height), interior volume increases by more than four cubic feet. Passengers will notice the extra room—right down to the stow-space behind the third row of seating. The 2009 Pilot acquired many new features, including a tailgate with a lift-up glass hatch, tilt and telescopic steering column, and hill start assist. Pilot’s high strength steel content (340 grade and above) is now at 52 percent, and the new 15.9-pound aluminum hood saves a whopping 19.2 pounds when compared to the steel hood on the previous model year Pilot. Pilot’s horsepower increases from 244 at 5750 rpm to 250 at 5700 rpm, while torque moves from 240 pounds-feet at 4500 rpm to 253 pounds-feet at 4800 rpm. The latest version of Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) means six cylinders when power is the demand and four or three cylinder mode at other times. (The 2008 Pilot’s VCM worked only in six and three-cylinder modes.) Standard safety equipment includes three-row side curtain airbags and the Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure that provides improved front crash compatibility with different-sized vehicles and bumper heights. Estimated mpg for the 3.5-liter V6 Pilot 4WD with 5-speed automatic transmission is 16 city and 22 highway. MSRP for the Pilot 4WD EX-L model is $35,195.