2011 Honda Pilot EX-L

The Pilot is Honda's three-row family SUV, the one you cross-shop with the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer. It drives with the composed, car-like feel Honda is known for, though the steering is light and the ride is on the firm side. Inside, the cabin is full of clever storage cubbies and the third row folds flat to open up a big cargo area. Owners report solid build quality and few problems, with the occasional airbag recall handled quickly by Honda. The EX-L is the leather-trimmed middle child of the Pilot lineup, splitting the difference between the cloth-seat EX and the fully loaded Touring. Its 3.5L V6 makes 250 horsepower and routes through a five-speed automatic to four-wheel drive, which gives you confident traction in snow or mud but drops the combined mileage to 18 mpg combined.