The all new body of the 2016 next-generation Honda Pilot will make some loyalists lovers and others haters. While the next generation isn’t due to hit dealer lots until June, however, early opinions gauged by the buzz at this years’ North American Auto Show, had many heads turning.

The new Pilot takes on the exterior lines of the CRV, Motor Trend’s 2014 SUV of the Year.

2016 honda pilot ext06 The lines carry through the entire line from Civic to Odyssey van, where the width inside of the new Pilot feels like the larger van as well. 2016 honda pilot interior     The 2016 Honda Pilot features a 3.5L v6 direct-injection i-VTEC® V-6 engine starring the new Earth Dream technology, designed to increase fuel efficiency and power. While I haven’t driven it yet, I look forward to a more spirited effort when loaded for weekend warrior activities. Additional features include attention to driver safety including a back-up camera standard, and optional Honda Sensing™ suite of safety and driver-assist technologies. including lane change monitoring, and cruise control automation. The new Pilot will appeal to both men and women suv buyers, as the much needed refresh could not have come at a more crucial time for Honda owners looking for more luxury, features and style at a reasonable price. The availability of AWD in a larger percentage of build-out is also a big plus in this over-crowded and over-priced arena.

Meanwhile, current lessee’s of Honda Pilots are being offered some great deals to remain in the family.

1. Owners of current Honda models in expiring leases may opt to extend their contracts at the same payment while awaiting the arrival of the new 2016 Pilot. 2. The 2015 Honda Pilot, a more traditional SUV style squared-back shape, has up to $3750.00 in multiple rebates including $1000.00 owner loyalty, to make the trade to a new 2014, while inventory holds.  The key is dealers having enough 2014 Pilots to carry them until the new 2016 arrives, so don’t wait too long to get the color and features you want. LX models have lease payments starting as low as $299.00/mth for eligible buyers. 3. Order your 2016 Honda Pilot, and wait. While the prices and features are not available officially, you can bet the new price tag will be at least $500.00 or 1-2% more per model option base price, with no rebates or incentives in the first year. If you are a true Honda fan, you will appreciate the strong residual value Honda maintains through their policy of limited production and even fewer discounts. Even in the wake of Honda Pilot Recalls and stiff competition from Kia and Hyundai, the Pilot retains an astoundingly high resale value in the pre-owned market. Stay tuned for my personal test-drive review of the 2016 Honda Pilot, coming soon. ——————————————————————————————————— Sarah Lee Marks is a 26 yr. veteran of the auto industry. As a published author of over 15 books, she is often quoted by the national media as car consumer advocate and professional fleet manager for residential and commercial organizations. Advice on all car-related topics is free*, when emailing info at mycarlady dot com.  *when using the form below. ————————————————————————————————– ]]>