All-New Honda Pilot Sport-Utility Vehicle Set to Debut Next Year: Pre-Production Model to be Shown at NAIAS

Torrance, Calif., Dec 13, 2001 – Honda will introduce an all-new sport-utility vehicle called the Pilot, scheduled to debut in the summer of 2002. A pre-production version of the new SUV will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next month, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. announced today.

Designed and built by Honda, the Pilot SUV aims to redefine the segment by combining a highly versatile interior with up to eight-passenger capacity with class-leading performance, functionality and features – including the largest passenger and cargo hauling capacity in its class. In keeping with Honda’s commitment to safety and the environment, the Pilot will boast a full compliment of leading safety and low emissions vehicle (LEV) performance.

“The new Honda Pilot will deliver a new level of SUV versatility, performance and handling and combine it with the comfort, quality and refinement that comes with being a Honda,” said Tom Elliott, executive vice president of American Honda. “Following on the heels of the completely redesigned CR-V, the Pilot will give our customers two great new Honda sport-utility vehicles to choose from.”Featuring classic SUV proportions, an advanced V-6 powertrain and sophisticated four-wheel drive system, the Pilot SUV is designed to deliver its occupants through all types of weather and road conditions in exceptional comfort, confidence and safety.