Honda West

And the winner is?

No. 1 2012 Honda Pilot EX-L; 752.1 points

What we liked: The Pilot is "way roomy," Healey said. "It really delivers on the space promise," a point of view echoed by Wiesenfelder and Varela. "Switches, stalks and controls are nicely weighted and portray a high level of refinement and precision," Davis said. "I loved the large LCD screen in the center console," Thomas said. "It had huge type, displayed all your music information and it came loaded with great iPod integration, Bluetooth audio and a DVD player in back for the kids." "It has more features than I'd expect of a Honda at this price," Wiesenfelder said. "There are also tons of little nooks and crannies to store all of the stuff that families haul around with them on a daily basis," Varela said. "However, most of them are uncovered, meaning your clutter will forever be visible."

The verdict: "The Pilot remains a nice balance of size, roominess, efficiency and versatility," Wiesenfelder said, "and it appears that Honda is becoming more generous with features for the money." "A great choice for growing families with a sense of adventure," Davis said. "The Pilot is the winner for me because of the high level of quality and comfort teamed to all the great entertainment features," Thomas said. "I'm not sure how you top it."

Features common to all: All models have Bluetooth phone connectivity, power windows and locks, antilock brakes, traction and stability control, and front-, side-impact and side curtain airbags.

Key Pilot features:

• As-tested price: $36,170
• Very Good mpg city/highway
• Can seat eight (most, tied with Traverse)
• Backup camera, no backup warning
• Auto climate control for front and rear
• Maximum towing capacity: 2,000 pounds
• Rear entertainment system (only one in Shootout with it)
• Power liftgate115-volt house-style outlet
• USB input for MP3 player