So what are your thoughts on the '16 Pilot.

I like some of the changes they have made but question some as well.

So what do any of you like/dislike about the 2016?

 

Still a SUV for soccer moms. That is clearly stated by the purse size middle console. I like how the interior looks, way better than the mega buttons. The front end looks ugly to me still. We will see how many people will have problems with the new 9-speed transmission. I just hope the i-VTM4 is better than before.

 

Bought the wife a white 2016 pilot. We love it! We got the EX. So no 9 speed.

 

I think the i-VTM-4 will be an improvement over the older VTM-4.

That being said, my big hangup is VCM. Not interested, no way, no how. It seems far too complex and complicated for too little benefit and too much exposure for repair/abnormal wear issues.

Here's a description of the new VCM operation.

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VCM Operation
To help improve the fuel efficiency of the Pilot engine, a new variation of Honda's Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) is used. The i-VTEC system combines with Active Control engine Mounts (ACM) to allow the VCM system to operate with just three cylinders in a wide range of situations to maximize fuel efficiency and lower emissions. When greater power is needed, the system switches seamlessly to 6-cylinder operation.

During startup, aggressive acceleration, or steep ascents – any time high power output is required – the engine operates on all six cylinders. During moderate-speed cruising and at low or moderate engine loads, the system operates just the front bank of three cylinders.

The VCM system can tailor the working displacement of the engine to match the driving requirements from moment to moment. Since the system automatically closes both the intake and exhaust valves of the cylinders that are not used, pumping losses associated with intake and exhaust are eliminated and fuel efficiency gets a further boost. The system combines maximum performance and maximum fuel efficiency – two characteristics that don't typically coexist in conventional engines.

VCM deactivates specific cylinders by using the i-VTEC (intelligent Variable Valve-Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system to close the intake and exhaust valves while the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) simultaneously cuts fuel to those cylinders. The spark plugs continue to fire in inactive cylinders to minimize plug temperature loss and prevent fouling induced from incomplete combustion during cylinder re-activation.

The system is electronically controlled, and uses special integrated spool valves in the cylinder heads. Based on commands from the system's Electronic Control Unit, the spool valves selectively direct oil pressure to the rocker arms for specific cylinders. This oil pressure in turn drives synchronizing pistons that connect and disconnect the rocker arms.

The VCM system monitors throttle position, vehicle speed, engine speed, automatic-transmission gear selection and other factors to determine the correct cylinder activation scheme for the operating conditions. In addition, the system determines whether engine oil pressure is suitable for VCM switching and whether catalytic-converter temperature will remain in the proper range. To further smooth the activating or deactivating cylinders, the system adjusts ignition timing and throttle position and turns the torque converter lock-up on and off. As a result, the transition between three and six cylinder modes is effectively unnoticeable to the driver.

http://www.ridgelineownersclub.com/f...postcount=1271
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I don't care. As long as we keep up to date on our services at the dealership we bought it from, it comes with a lifetime power train warranty.

 

Power train won't cover for the VCM though. That's just the transmission.

 

The engine is covered under their warranty as well. Between that, free oil changes for life, free state inspections for life it made our decision for us really lol

 

Overall I like mine so far

I don't like how dirt and that collects on the rear bumper where the hatch is. Guess I'll get the "rear bumper applique" and see if that makes me feel any better.

 

I never heard a company giving lifetime powertrain warranty. It even says on their website it's only 5 years/60K limited powertrain warranty. Where you getting this lifetime stuff from?