You’ll be ready for anything in the 2009 Pilot.

Drive with a purpose, a mission and the knowledge that you have power to spare.
More Muscle

Feel free to brag. Every Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter i-VTEC® V-6 engine, which delivers an impressive 250 horsepower and 253 lb.-ft of torque.
Powerfully Efficient
Every 2009 Pilot is powered by a 250-hp, 3.5-liter, aluminum alloy, SOHC, 24-valve i-VTEC engine featuring the latest version of Honda’s advanced Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) system.
Honda’s innovative Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) helps to increase mileage* and lower emissions by automatically deactivating and reactivating multiple cylinders, depending on the driver's needs.
Ride Smooth
4-wheel independent suspension features a front strut/multi-link rear design for a smooth ride and excellent handling.

> Performance Features

> Front and Rear Independent Suspension System
The Pilot’s front suspension combines smooth ride characteristics with excellent steering response and straight-line braking stability. For 2009, the suspension geometry has been improved to reduce impact harshness, a benefit enhanced by a new hydraulic bushing that reduces sensitivity to vibration. An aluminum lower arm has been used to reduce unsprung weight and enhance responsiveness.


>Hill Start Assist
An all-new feature for 2009, Hill Start Assist helps prevent the Pilot from rolling forward or backward when stopped on steep grade. Activated by sensors when the driver’s foot moves from the brake pedal to the accelerator, Hill Start Assist will maintain brake-line pressure for a brief moment when the brake pedal is released, giving the driver time to push the accelerator and resume motion.

>250-hp, 3.5-Liter, 24-Valve SOHC i-VTEC® V-6 Engine

Every 2009 Pilot is powered by a 250-hp, 3.5-liter, aluminum alloy, SOHC, 24-valve i-VTEC engine featuring the latest version of Honda’s advanced Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) system.

>Variable Torque Management® 4-Wheel-Drive System (VTM-4®)
Powered by the intelligence of i-VTEC® technology, VCM works on the principal that a vehicle only requires a fraction of its power output at cruising speeds. The system electronically deactivates cylinders to reduce fuel consumption. The new VCM engine is able to run on 3, 4 or 6 cylinders based on the power requirement. So you get the best of both worlds: V-6 power when accelerating or climbing, as well as the efficiency of a smaller engine when cruising

2008 Toyota RAV4 Sport Sport Utility

Introduction
The vehicle that pioneered the cute-ute segment is all grown up. Ever since its last total overhaul (for the 2006 model year), the Toyota RAV4 has offered seating for seven, cargo capacity comparable to some mid-size SUVs, and V6 performance near the top of its class. The RAV4 can tow 3500 pounds when properly equipped, and buyers have the choice of front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. True to its family-friendly role, the RAV4 comes standard with a long list of safety equipment.

So what was once the cute baby of the family is now the family car.

The available 269-horsepower V6 tops most of the RAV4's competitors. It's more than the RAV4 needs, really; but it allows the RAV4 to really scoot while carrying as many as seven people and all their associated stuff. Yet the RAV4's fuel efficiency remains comparable with some less powerful four- and six-cylinder SUVs. The base RAV4 seats five and offers a more frugal four-cylinder power.

Style-wise, the RAV4 looks like other contemporary Toyotas, featuring an aerodynamically efficient ovoid profile strategically relieved by sharp character lines. A coefficient of drag (Cd) of 0.33 is among the best in its segment and a major factor in minimizing wind noise and maximizing fuel economy.

Review Sections
• Introduction
• Lineup
• Walkaround
• Interior
• Driving Impressions
• Summary & Specs
Get Your Free Quote on a Toyota RAV4 Sport Sport Utility

Only small details have changed for 2008. Most significantly, an engine immobilizer is now standard on the Limited grade and optional on other models

2008 RAV4 Sport Performance, Engine, & Power

• 3,456 cc 3.5 liters V 6 front engine with 94.0 mm bore, 83.1 mm stroke, 10.8 compression ratio, double overhead cam, variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder 2GR-FE
• Unleaded fuel 87
• Multi-point injection fuel system
• 15.9 gallon main unleaded fuel tank 13.2
• Power: 201 kW , 269 HP SAE @ 6,200 rpm; 246 ft lb , 334 Nm @ 4,700 rpm

Toyota RAV4 Standard Safety Features
• Electronic Stability Control
• 4-Wheel ABS
• Traction Control
• Child Seat Lower Anchorage
• Adjustable Upper Belt - Front
• Pretensioner
• Energy Management Feature
• Rear Center Lap/Shoulder Belt
• Advanced Air Bag Features
• Side Airbag - Front
• Head Airbag - Front
• Rear Seat Head Restraint
• Trunk Release
• Tire Pressure Monitor

Pricing
Toyota RAV4 Sport Sport Utility $26,390

2008 Honda CR-V Review

Introduction
Once funky and cute, the Honda CR-V has grown up to look more like a high-dollar crossover. This latest-generation CR-V, completely redesigned and re-engineered for the 2007 model year, is more powerful and more comfortable than the previous-generation models. Its new suspension geometry delivers an improved ride and better, more responsive handling. The four-cylinder engine employs variable intake valve timing to optimize horsepower and torque for acceleration and cruising speeds and it's paired with a five-speed automatic transmission.

2008 CRV Performance, Engine & Power Specs

•2,354 cc 2.4 liters in-line 4 front engine with 87.0 mm bore, 99.0 mm stroke, 9.7 compression ratio, double overhead cam, variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder
• Unleaded fuel 87
• Multi-point injection fuel system
• 15.3 gallon main unleaded fuel tank 12.8
• Power: 124 kW , 166 HP SAE @ 5,800 rpm; 161 ft lb , 218 Nm @ 4,200 rpm

Honda CR-V Standard Safety Features
• Electronic Stability Control • 4-Wheel ABS
• Traction Control • Daytime Running Lights
• Child Seat Lower Anchorage • Adjustable Upper Belt - Front
• Pretensioner • Energy Management Feature
• Rear Center Lap/Shoulder Belt • Advanced Air Bag Features
• Side Airbag - Front • Head Airbag - Front
• Rear Seat Head Restraint • Dynamic Head Restraint
• Trunk Release • Tire Pressure Monitor

Pricing

2008 CR-V EX 4WD 4-Dr Sport Utility L4 $24,150
2008 CR-V LX 4WD 4-Dr Sport Utility L4 $21,900
2008 CR-V EX 2WD 4-Dr Sport Utility L4 $22,950
2008 CR-V EX-L 2WD 4-Dr Sport Utility L4 $25,500
2008 CR-V EX-L 4WD 4-Dr Sport Utility L4 $26,700
2008 CR-V LX 2WD 4-Dr Sport Utility L4 $20,700