2003 Honda Pilot

Tapping into the bigger-is-better philosophy, Honda has made a late jump into the midsize sport/utility fray with an all-new model that seats eight and boasts the largest interior in its class. The Pilot replaces the Isuzu-sourced, body-on-frame Passport, combining the traditional sport/ute functionality with the quality, refinement, and efficient design that Honda is known to deliver. A mechanical sibling to the award-winning Acura MDX, the Pilot offers a natural progression for CR-V and even Accord owners looking for a larger, more versatile vehicle.

This honest-to-goodness Honda has a size advantage over its established competition, resulting in a cavernous interior, with two rear 60/40-split flat-folding seats. Thanks to its wide track, efficient suspension packaging, and flat load floor, the Pilot boasts among the largest cargo-carrying capacity in the midsize SUV class, and it can even transport four-foot-wide sheets of plywood. A multi-function center console holds a dedicated cell phone cradle and 12-volt power outlet. Parents will especially appreciate the second-row child's activity center that incorporates a cupholder and storage tray with a place for a pocket-sized game or PDA, crayons or markers, and other essential kid stuff.

The instrument panel features a three-gauge cluster with sporty beveled edges and a precision chronograph design. The silver-trimmed steering wheel houses controls for the cruise control, as well as the seven-speaker AM/FM/CD/cassette stereo. The center panel holds the air conditioning and stereo, as well as an optional satellite-linked navigation system or Honda DVD rear entertainment system. The seats are wide with generous passenger space all around.