2009 Honda Pilot: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2009 Honda Pilot is an all-new, second-generation redesign. Its biggest change is a larger, boxier body with a roomier third row that is more practical for adults.
About the 2009 Honda Pilot
2nd generation (2009-2015), first year of the redesign.
Honda positioned the 2009 Pilot as a ready-for-anything family SUV: three rows, seating for eight, flexible cargo space, and real towing ability without moving to a truck-based vehicle. The message was usefulness first. Compared with rivals, Honda leaned on smart interior packaging, a more usable third row, large storage areas, and a comfortable, car-like ride, while giving the Pilot a tougher, more adventure-themed look than the first generation.
The redesigned Pilot is an eight-passenger family SUV, with the LX focused on utility and the EX adding everyday comforts such as three-zone climate control and a power driver’s seat. The EX-L brings leather, heated front seats, a moonroof, and a rearview camera, while the new Touring tops the range with navigation, Bluetooth, a power tailgate, and parking sensors.
What changed, by category
2009 Honda Pilot specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, VTEC, 3.5 Liter | V6, VTEC, 3.5 Liter | V6, VTEC, 3.5 Liter | V6, VTEC, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 23 mpg | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 250 hp | 250 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 253 lb-ft | 253 lb-ft | 253 lb-ft | 253 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 4500 lb | 4500 lb | 4500 lb | 4500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 87 cu-ft | 87 cu-ft | 87 cu-ft | 87 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 32.1 in | 32.1 in | 32.1 in | 32.1 in |
| Seats | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Front & Rear Parking Sensors | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| 115V Power Outlet | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Rear Window Shades | ||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||
| Tri-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2009 Honda Pilot fully redesigned?
Yes. The 2009 Pilot starts the model’s second generation with a larger body, boxier styling, more cabin space, and a third row that is more usable for adults.
What engine does the 2009 Honda Pilot have?
Every 2009 Pilot has a 3.5-liter V6 producing 250 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission.
Does every 2009 Honda Pilot have a third row and trailer hitch?
Yes. Every 2009 Pilot seats up to eight people in three rows and has a standard integrated Class III trailer hitch.
What was special about the 2009 Honda Pilot Touring?
The Touring was the new top trim for 2009. It added navigation, Bluetooth hands-free calling, a power tailgate, a USB audio connection, a premium audio system, parking sensors, and second-row sunshades.
Does the 2009 Honda Pilot have Hill Start Assist?
Yes. Hill Start Assist is standard on every 2009 Pilot and briefly holds the vehicle to reduce backward rolling when starting on a hill.