2023 Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4MATIC+ – Awesome!

February 2, 2023

Review by Veeno Dewan

The 2023 Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4MATIC is the esteemed brands performance version of the CLS and has been very popular amongst enthusiasts. The sedan is termed a 4-door coupe design with steeply curving roofline and tight, menacing, purposeful styling. It really is a good-looking car requisite AMG styling and parts options. There is the cool AMG Panamericana vertical slatted grille, the added side sill panels, and a rear diffuser. The Edition 429 package (As equipped on this tester.) added: jet-black accents to the skirts, mirror housings, and side window surrounds. It includes the car’s 20-inch black split five-spoke wheels and big twin exhaust tips also finished in black. There are updates to the driving assistance systems and to the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system.
The CLS 53 4MATIC+is powered by a powerful turbocharged 3.0L In- line six engine producing 429 horsepower output with 384 lb-ft of total torque. The integrated starter-generator can briefly deliver an additional 21 hp of power and 184 lb-ft of torque and supplies the 48-volt on-board network. This unit combines the starter and alternator in one electric motor and is integrated between the engine and transmission. The Transmission by the way is a quick -shifting AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT unit. This is a quick car with acceleration rated at 0 to 100Kph in a mere 4.5 seconds and a top Speed of 210 Kph.
Our tester was a gorgeous High-Tech Silver car with a contrasting interior upholstery in a fabulously daring Bengal red and black AMG Nappa Leather draped across the unique seats. There were a number of optional performance and luxury packages on our tester.
With a base price of $99,900, added to our tester were such extras as: AMG 5-Twin Spoke Aero wheels in matt black, AMG Driver’s Package, AMG Track Package, Edition 429 package, and the Intelligent Drive package. A Premium Package, Illuminated Door Sill Panels, and AMG Carbon Fibre interior trim were also included. The total price of our tester with all the options was a heady $118,750.
Interior wise, this Mercedes-AMG has a truly opulent cabin of generous proportions and features. The first thing that’s strikes you is that awesome combination of the AMG specific Bengal red leather seats, sleek carbon fibre trim, tasteful inserts of bright metal, piano black finishes, and selectable mood lighting all over the cabin. The wonderful multipurpose AMG Performance steering wheel that can do pretty much anything in term of functionality dominates, while the dash features two combined 12.3-inch screens featuring an upgraded new touchscreen and a responsive touchpad with haptic feedback. There is augmented reality with the navigation system, which overlays guidance and other real-time information onto a live video feed shown . The all-digital displays and driver gauges themselves are all customizable.
Front seat room is good, with excellent massage seats, occupant, and driver room. The rear seat is a little tight for those taller due to the sloping coupe roof. Rear trunk cargo capacity is 405 litres. Overall, the interior design, fit and finish is just what you would expect – exquisite.
On the road, performance is in the CLS 53. Acceleration is very quick with the addition of the Mercedes EQ Boost 48V starter-generator function that increases performance On acceleration there is a quicker delivery of boost and wonderfully fast throttle responses. The starter generator can add 21 hp of electric assist, along with 184 lb-ft of torque. That arrives immediately when you hammer the car.
The 3.0-litre turbo 6 cylinder with EQ Boost deliver a power output of: 429 hp @ 6,100 r.p.m.; Torque: 384 lb-ft @ 1,800-5,800 r.p.m.
Handling is composed and with no real drama through quick corner entry and exits. The AMG Ride Control+ suspension contributes to the minimal body roll on cornering weight transfers. It’s a multi-chamber air suspension with a firmer sports orientated springs and damper loading setup. However, the system is also adjustable for different driver preferences. Even with the big tires, the suspension can be dialled in for a more forgiving compliant ride. Fuel economy is rated at: (premium gasoline in L/100 km) 11.6 city; 8.8 highway.
Not much to complain about, rear headroom is compromised due to the coupe roof line, and options can be pricy, but the AMG spec is still the one to get in my opinion – price be damned!
To sum up the CLS 53 4MATIC+ is very desirable from the outside and comes with one of best interiors in this segment. You also gain proven performance with a great engine pairing. Let’s not forget that luxurious cabin and a slew of well- designed technology.
A winner all the way for lucky buyers who want that 3-star badge with a performance twist. Highly recommended.

2023 Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4MATIC+. Base priced from $99,999.
Price as tested with options: $118,750.
More info at www.mercedesbenz.ca

2023 Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4MATIC+ – Performance Classic!

January 27, 2023

Review by Veeno Dewan

The 2023 Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4MATIC is the esteemed brands performance version of the CLS and has been very popular amongst enthusiasts. The sedan is termed a 4-door coupe design with steeply curving roofline and tight, menacing, purposeful styling. It really is a good-looking car requisite AMG styling and parts options. There is the cool AMG Panamericana vertical slatted grille, the added side sill panels, and a rear diffuser. The Edition 429 package (As equipped on this tester.) added: jet-black accents to the skirts, mirror housings, and side window surrounds. It includes the car’s 20-inch black split five-spoke wheels and big twin exhaust tips also finished in black. There are updates to the driving assistance systems and to the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system.
The CLS 53 4MATIC+is powered by a powerful turbocharged 3.0L In- line six engine producing 429 horsepower output with 384 lb-ft of total torque. The integrated starter-generator can briefly deliver an additional 21 hp of power and 184 lb-ft of torque and supplies the 48-volt on-board network. This unit combines the starter and alternator in one electric motor and is integrated between the engine and transmission. The Transmission by the way is a quick -shifting AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT unit. This is a quick car with acceleration rated at 0 to 100Kph in a mere 4.5 seconds and a top Speed of 210 Kph.
Our tester was a gorgeous High-Tech Silver car with a contrasting interior upholstery in a fabulously daring Bengal red and black AMG Nappa Leather draped across the unique seats. There were a number of optional performance and luxury packages on our tester.
With a base price of $99,900, added to our tester were such extras as: AMG 5-Twin Spoke Aero wheels in matt black, AMG Driver’s Package, AMG Track Package, Edition 429 package, and the Intelligent Drive package. A Premium Package, Illuminated Door Sill Panels, and AMG Carbon Fibre interior trim were also included. The total price of our tester with all the options was a heady $118,750.
Interior wise, this Mercedes-AMG has a truly opulent cabin of generous proportions and features. The first thing that’s strikes you is that awesome combination of the AMG specific Bengal red leather seats, sleek carbon fibre trim, tasteful inserts of bright metal, piano black finishes, and selectable mood lighting all over the cabin. The wonderful multipurpose AMG Performance steering wheel that can do pretty much anything in term of functionality dominates, while the dash features two combined 12.3-inch screens featuring an upgraded new touchscreen and a responsive touchpad with haptic feedback. There is augmented reality with the navigation system, which overlays guidance and other real-time information onto a live video feed shown . The all-digital displays and driver gauges themselves are all customizable.
Front seat room is good, with excellent massage seats, occupant, and driver room. The rear seat is a little tight for those taller due to the sloping coupe roof. Rear trunk cargo capacity is 405 litres. Overall, the interior design, fit and finish is just what you would expect – exquisite.
On the road, performance is in the CLS 53. Acceleration is very quick with the addition of the Mercedes EQ Boost 48V starter-generator function that increases performance On acceleration there is a quicker delivery of boost and wonderfully fast throttle responses. The starter generator can add 21 hp of electric assist, along with 184 lb-ft of torque. That arrives immediately when you hammer the car.
The 3.0-litre turbo 6 cylinder with EQ Boost deliver a power output of: 429 hp @ 6,100 r.p.m.; Torque: 384 lb-ft @ 1,800-5,800 r.p.m.
Handling is composed and with no real drama through quick corner entry and exits. The AMG Ride Control+ suspension contributes to the minimal body roll on cornering weight transfers. It’s a multi-chamber air suspension with a firmer sports orientated springs and damper loading setup. However, the system is also adjustable for different driver preferences. Even with the big tires, the suspension can be dialled in for a more forgiving compliant ride. Fuel economy is rated at: (premium gasoline in L/100 km) 11.6 city; 8.8 highway.
Not much to complain about, rear headroom is compromised due to the coupe roof line, and options can be pricy, but the AMG spec is still the one to get in my opinion – price be damned!
To sum up the CLS 53 4MATIC+ is very desirable from the outside and comes with one of best interiors in this segment. You also gain proven performance with a great engine pairing. Let’s not forget that luxurious cabin and a slew of well- designed technology.
A winner all the way for lucky buyers who want that 3-star badge with a performance twist. Highly recommended.

2023 Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4MATIC+. Base priced from $99,999.
Price as tested with options: $118,750.
More info at www.mercedesbenz.ca

Ottawa announces $2.8 billion to settle remaining part of B.C. day scholar lawsuit

January 23, 2023

Vancouver: The federal government has come to a $2.8-billion agreement to settle a class-action lawsuit brought by two British Columbia first nations related to the collective harms caused by residential schools.
At a Saturday morning news conference in Vancouver, Crown-Indigenous Affairs Minister Marc Miller said the government signed the deal with plaintiffs representing 325 nations that opted into the Gottfriedson Band suit.
“While settlements that are being announced like these today do not erase or make up for the past … what it can do is help address the collective harm caused by Canada’s past — a deeply colonial one — in the loss of language, the loss of culture and the loss of heritage,” said Miller.
The lawsuit originally involved three classes of complainants, but in 2021 all parties agreed to concentrate initial settlement efforts on survivors and their descendants to ensure they’d receive compensation during their lifetimes.
Saturday’s announcement marked the settlement for the band class of plaintiffs, which Miller called “unfinished business” from the 2021 settlement.
Miller said the settlement will be guided by four pillars: the revival and protection of Indigenous language; the revival and protection of Indigenous culture; the protection and promotion of heritage and the wellness of Indigenous communities and their members.
It marks the first time Canada is compensating bands and communities as a collective for harms related to residential schools, he said.
“Reconciliation isn’t free. This is a lot of money,” Miller said. “Is it enough? I think only time will tell, but we know there’s a heck of a lot more to do.”
Miller said the $2.8 billion for members of the band class will be put in an independent, not-for-profit trust, adding more terms of the settlement will be released in the next month.
Former shishalh chief Garry Feschuk and former Tk’emlups te Secwepemc chief Shane Gottfriedson launched the suit more than a decade ago seeking justice for day scholars who were abused while attending the schools but who were ineligible for the 2006 settlement for full-time students.
“Today we are representing 325 Indigenous nations across Canada and have developed a settlement plan to allow for the nations to work towards the four pillars,” said Gottfriedson.
“This settlement allows our Indigenous nations to control this process … we will manage and distribute the funds, we will provide it to all 325 nations in a fair and objective manner.”
Individual nations will decide which of the four pillars to focus on and will develop ten-year implementation plans.
“This has never been done,” Peter Grant, class council for the nations, said at the news conference. “This is where the government is saying, ‘you take care and you’re in charge of how you wish to start to repair the damage.”’
Grant explained that, after the first decade, another ten-year plan will be developed with the intention of ensuring all funds are dispersed after 20 years.
A settlement approval will take place between Feb. 27 and March 1 before a federal court, followed by an appeal period before the funds are transferred to the trust.

By Brieanna Charlebois
The Canadian Press

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his cabinet begin three day retreat in Hamilton

January 23, 2023

Hamilton: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his ministers are gathering at a Hamilton hotel today to begin a three-day cabinet retreat.

The strategy session comes during what Trudeau said are “tough times,” with a potential recession on the horizon and Canadians feeling the strain of high inflation.

Trudeau is fresh off a week of cross-country travel focused on Canada’s push to expand its battery and electric-vehicle industries, part of a broader goal to get more competitive on clean technology.

Senior Liberals are expected to use the retreat to hammer out political and policy priorities for the months ahead, keeping in mind their confidence-and-supply deal with the NDP.

Promises under the deal include passing pharmacare legislation by the end of the year and introducing a “just transition” bill for oil and gas workers _ a prospect already riling Alberta politicians.

The House of Commons is scheduled to return from its winter break next week.

The Canadian Press

Manitoba still hasn’t acted on some recommendations to protect kids, advocate says

January 17, 2023

Winnipeg: Manitoba’s advocate for children and youth says the province has still not fulfilled some key recommendations aimed at protecting young people.

Sherry Gott says the government has made progress in the number of recommendations partially or fully implemented, but among the outstanding ones are ideas from the Phoenix Sinclair inquiry report nine years ago.

The five-year-old girl died after years of neglect and abuse, and a recommendation that child welfare workers have a maximum of 20 cases at a time has yet to be fulfilled.

Gott says a more-recent recommendation to promote and provide safe sleeping surfaces for infants has not been acted on, and the number of sleep-related deaths among infants appears to be rising.

Her report also says the province has yet to act on a recommendation to develop a mental health and addictions strategy specific to young people.

Gott says the government has shown some action toward implementing 88 per cent of recommendations from various reports in recent years, and 18 per cent have been fully implemented.

The provincial Health Department had the lowest rate of compliance and said the COVID-19 pandemic affected how quickly it could act, Gott said in her report Tuesday.

“With the removal of all COVID-19 health measures and restrictions this past spring, the Department of Health must begin to prioritize action on recommendations,” the report states.

“By delaying service improvements for a few years, children and youth have essentially been asked to wait until the pandemic is over before vital, and life-saving improvements could be made to their health services. Frankly, kids cannot wait.”

New permitting strategy will help build homes faster

January 17, 2023

The Province is taking another step to tackle the housing crisis by creating a one-stop-shop approach to provincial permitting to help speed up approvals and construction to build more homes.

“Every British Columbian deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. Unfortunately, this simply wasn’t a priority for more than a decade,” said Premier David Eby. “As we turn things around and start to build record levels of housing, we are taking action today to remove obstacles to constructing new homes that families desperately need.”

Currently, authorizations related to homebuilding in B.C. can require multiple provincial permit applications spanning different ministries with different processes. This includes permits related to riparian area approvals, water licences, transportation approvals, road rezonings, contaminated sites, and requirements for heritage inspections.

The new Permitting Strategy for Housing will streamline the process and create a single, co-ordinated approach to housing-related permits and authorization. This will speed up the process and eliminate the need for multiple applications across ministries. While the single application window is being established over the coming months, permit and authorization decisions will be expedited through a cross-ministry team focused solely on processing housing permits. The Housing Action Task Force includes decision-makers, information technology systems, project managers and policy support teams working together to speed up processing.

A co-ordinated provincial approach is also expected to make application reviews more streamlined for First Nations, which are consulted on each provincial authorization.

“Having dedicated resources and a cross-ministry team prioritizing housing permits means we can make significantly more progress on getting British Columbians the housing they need,” said Nathan Cullen, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship. “Establishing a single-application approach is an investment that will deliver more housing for people faster, and this will also result in immediate and future benefits for the entire natural resources sector.”

The Permitting Strategy for Housing is supported by an initial investment of 42 new full-time positions. It will prioritize the housing that most urgently needs to be built, such as Indigenous-led projects, BC Housing applications and multiple-unit applications. Priority will also be given to authorizations and permit approvals for housing projects in municipalities that are subject to the speculation and vacancy tax, because they have the greatest housing shortages, lowest vacancy rates and most demand for housing.

“Housing is a top priority for British Columbians and our government,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing. “We are working with municipalities to get more housing built faster. At the same time, we recognize that as a Province we have work to do to speed up our approvals. This new permitting approach is an important step in providing the homes people need.”

Ranj Pillai officially sworn in as Yukon’s 10th premier

January 16, 2023

Whitehorse: Yukon’s newest premier promised to stay the course on Liberal government policies on Saturday as he formally took the reins of both his party and territory.

Ranj Pillai, a member of the territory’s Legislature since 2016, was officially sworn in as Yukon’s 10th premier at an afternoon ceremony in the territorial capital of Whitehorse. The ceremony in which his new cabinet members were also sworn in _ saw him officially succeed Sandy Silver in the role.

After officially taking office, Pillai said he was “honoured” to take the helm.

“The Yukon remains a place full of promise, a promise that can be realized through purpose and hard work. As premier, I’m dedicated to making sure that the work the government does is done with all Yukoners in mind,” he said.

Continuing the previous government’s work in housing, healthcare and energy will ensure all residents are represented and will benefit from the territory’s “strong economic growth,” Pillai said.

Silver announced in September he was stepping down as premier and did not intend to run in the territory’s general election in 2025.

Pillai, who ran unopposed, inherits a minority government that functions through a confidence and supply agreement with the Yukon New Democrats after the Yukon Liberals and Yukon Party each took eight seats in the 2021 election.

He will also serve as the minister responsible for the Executive Council Office, the Yukon Housing Corporation and minister of economic development.

“Our team is strong. We are passionate, committed and dedicated to serving all Yukoners as we advance the territory in the years ahead,” Pillai said in his first speech as premier.

Yukon’s new cabinet contains several familiar faces.

Jeanie McLean was elevated to deputy premier, but will retain her positions as education minister and minister of women and gender equity.

Outgoing premier Silver retains his role as finance minister while taking on new portfolios as minister of public service commission, minister in charge of the Yukon Liquor Corporation and minister responsible for the Yukon Lotteries Commission.

Tracy-Anne McPhee, who previously served as deputy premier, will keep her other roles as minister of health and social services, minister of justice and the territory’s attorney general.

Nils Clarke retained his position as environment minister and minister of highways and public works, while Richard Mostyn kept his job as minister of community services and minister responsible for the workers’ safety and compensation board.

John Streicker succeeded Pillai as tourism minister while maintaining his previous roles as energy minister, minister responsible for the Yukon Energy Corporation, minister for the Yukon Development Corporation and minister responsible for the French Language Services Directorate.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a statement on Friday _ ahead of the formal swearing-in ceremony _ saying he had spoken to Pillai to congratulate him on being selected as the territory’s newest premier.

“I look forward to working with incoming Premier Pillai to continue to build healthy and resilient communities in the Yukon and a better future for all Canadians,” the statement read.

“Together, we will work to advance key priorities for people in the territory and across the country. This includes making life more affordable, building an economy that works for everyone in the Yukon, moving forward on the shared path of reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, taking ambitious action in the fight against climate change, expanding access to child care for Yukon families, and improving access to safe, affordable housing and quality health care.”

Trudeau also thanked Silver for more than 11 years of service to the territory, including the past six as premier.

Trudeau to visit rare earths element processing plant in Saskatoon today

January 16, 2023

Saskatoon: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will be in Saskatoon today to visit a rare earths element processing plant.

Lithium, graphite, nickel, cobalt, copper and the group of 17 metals and minerals known as rare earth elements are being prioritized for investments in exploration, production and processing as part of Canada’s critical minerals strategy, announced by Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson last month.

Critical minerals were also among the issues Trudeau, U.S. President Joe Biden and Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador discussed during their summit last week in Mexico.

In 2020 the World Bank predicted that demand for critical minerals _ dozens of metals and minerals like lithium and copper that are used in batteries and clean energy generation _ will soar 500 per cent by 2050.

Canada is not a commercial producer of rare earth elements, though it does have some of the largest-known deposits.

Saskatoon Mayor Charlie Clark will be present for Trudeau’s tour of the processing plant, and the prime minister is scheduled to speak to media afterward.

2022 Mercedes – Benz AMG GLB 35 – More Performance Magic!

January 16, 2023

Auto review by Veeno Dewan

The GLB-class is a Crossover SUV model for the Mercedes – Benz lineup.. The GLB has the same underpinning platform as the A-Class and will come in two trims for the Canadian market: GLB 250 4MATIC and GLB 35 AMG 4MATIC, an upgraded, high-performance version
We tested the GLB AMG 35 model, the three-row crossover SUV with a 302 Horsepower 2.l Turbo four-cylinder engine. Its part family cruiser , part hot- hatchback with real performance chops. There are the AMG body mods with a jazzed up-front splitter and roof spoiler. A Mercedes-Benz Pananamerica style vertical slat grille and a more aggressive rear bumper round off the look. Black alloy wheels in sizes ranging from 19 to 21 -inch are available, while silver AMG script brake calipers complete the purposeful demeanour. The engine is hooked up to an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
The GLB 35 4MATIC AMG uses an upgraded four-cylinder unit that delivers 302 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, with enough grunt for a 0-100 km/h dash in a very quick 5.2 seconds. AMG also added a specially tuned dual-clutch gearbox and suspension system, adjustable dampers, launch control, and a variable all-wheel drive system that can send up to 50% of power to the rear axle if required. To handle the increased power AMG increased front-end structural rigidity with strut tower braces and underbody bracing. The 2022 GLB 35 AMG 4MATIC lists at $58,900. The must- have $3,100 Premium Package adds needed feature such as: blind spot assist, twin 10.25-inch screens, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Keyless-Go, ambient lighting, and more. The performance AMG GLB 35 4Matic starts at $58,900.
The interior cabin of the GLB 35 AMG is a masterclass in design. The cool jet turbine engine style air vents draw the eyes and separate the upper and lower dash. 64-way ambient lighting highlights metal, chrome and wood in the dash console and doors. The showstopping widescreen dash display with five different styles of display wows with its cool factor. The reconfigurable digital gauge display blends seamlessly with the infotainment system behind a single glass panel. Mercedes wonderfully easy to use MBUX infotainment software allows for voice recognition as well as touchpad and gesture-controlled interactions with the system. Simply say ‘Hey Mercedes’ and the voice assistant feature will follow commands quickly and easily. Onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are all standard.
Optional with the new Multimedia Package is navigation with augmented reality. The chunky AMG steering wheel is another thing of visual and tactile beauty with its optional suspension tuning and drive mode set in the steering wheel as buttons. The individual settings can also be adjusted on the center console or through the digital cluster.
The cabin features comfortable front and rear seats and even an optional third row of seats in the compact interior. The reclining 60/40-split middle rear seats slide 5 inches backwards and forwards and offer an impressive 1,805 litres maximum in the five-seater, and 1,680 litres in the seven-seater GLB.
On the road, the turbo-4 engine delivers its 302 horsepower with aplomb. The launch control feature allows for beautifully exuberant off the line dragster- like acceleration while the 8-speed dual-clutch AMG SPEEDSHIFT automatic shifts quickly, with a satisfying feeling. Use the steering wheel mounted paddle shifters and you wring a fraction more in reactions.
Depending on terrain and driving style, the standard all-wheel drive 4MATI C system is skewed to the GLB’s front wheels but can divert up to 50% of the torque to the rear axle based on speed, steering angle, and acceleration parameters. Despite being a tall boxy SUV, the tuned suspension system, adjustable dampers, and more rigid structure mean body roll is well controlled with just a hint of understeer when pushed hard . The GLB 35 reaches its true nadir in Sport mode+. The engine and transmission seems to operate at warp speeds on empty highway stretches, the engine screams, things blur past, yet the GLB35 remains poised, stable, and confident. So much fun!
To sum up, the GLB 35 AMG is lithe, and agile with Sport car reflexes despite it being a SUV. The seven- seat option is fantastic on a SUV of this size and yes some may complain the third row is kids only, but even then, it can traffic adults for short runs if need be. I would rather have the flexibility of having seven-seats rather than five in any case. A wonderful addition to the Mercedes -AMG lineup and destined for great sales and a lot of happy performance drivers and their families!
2022 Mercedes -Benz AMG GLB 35 4MATIC priced from: $58,900.
Price as tested with all options: $70,590 plus taxes and fees

More info at ww.mercedes-benz.ca

The All-New 2023 Honda Pilot: For Canadian families.

January 16, 2023

Markham, ON. Completely redesigned fourth-generation Pilot is the largest and most powerful Honda SUV ever. Now its arrives with new styling, more interior space and a top-of-class combination of off-road capability and nimble on-road dynamics.
“The all-new Honda Pilot represents a new beginning for ruggedness and capability in the midsize three-row SUV class,” said Steve Hui, Assistant Vice President, Honda Canada. “We are incredibly excited to introduce this vehicle to our product lineup and are confident the Pilot will set the benchmark in its segment for Canadian customers.”
Designed and developed in the U.S., the 2023 Pilot lineup starts with the very well-equipped Sport, which comes with Honda’s all-new 3.5-litre V6 that debuts on Pilot, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that has been tuned exclusively for Pilot. The combination is smooth and responsive, with 285 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 262 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm (both SAE net). A new standard Hill Descent Control system enhances Pilot’s off-road capability.
A new easy-to-use 7-inch touchscreen audio system is standard with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, physical volume and tuning knobs and a simplified menu structure. Partial digital instrumentation, tri-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, LED headlights, a power tailgate and Shark Grey 7-spoke 20-inch wheels are also standard.
Pilot EX-L builds on the Sport’s equipment with leather front seats and a standard 9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility and a simplified menu structure. Qi-compatible 15W wireless smartphone charging and an upgraded 9-speaker audio system are also standard. EX-L also adds exterior flash with chrome trim and grille bar and machined 5-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels.
The new Pilot TrailSport brings even more off-road capability to the Pilot lineup. Exclusive rugged hardware includes an off-road tuned suspension with an additional 25mm of ground clearance, robust steel skid plates to better protect the underbody from damage on the trailnd expanded all-wheel drive capabilities. Pilot TrailSport is also the first Honda SUV with all-terrain tires for additional off-road traction. TrailSport’s unique 18-inch wheels have a rugged look and are carefully designed to reduce the likelihood of trail damage.
Exclusive to TrailSport, a new available Diffused Sky Pearl blue paint colour highlights its rugged design and adventurous spirit. In the cabin, TrailSport stands out with rugged details including exclusive orange contrast stitching and headrests embroidered with the TrailSport logo. A sliding panoramic sunroof is also standard.
For a higher level of versatility, Pilot Touring adds on-demand 8-occupant flexibility, ventilated front seats, a configurable 10.2-inch digital instrument display, a colour head-up display, and a multi-view camera system with a 360-degree view (all standard on Black Edition). In the second row, a first-in-class multi-function removable middle seat can be conveniently stored underneath the rear cargo floor instead of left at home in the garage. Families then have the seat available if they need it later in their journey. Pilot is the only vehicle in its class with 8-occupant seating and an opening panoramic sunroof. A 12-speaker Bose premium audio system IS custom-engineered for the new interior delivers a concert-quality listening experience. Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ and Wi-Fi Hotspot capability are also standard. Pilot Black Edition tops the lineup with additional interior features and functions including headrests embroidered with the Black Edition logo and perforated leather seats.
Touring and Black Edition also receive premium exterior finishes, including a gloss black grille mesh and B-pillar, dual chrome exhaust garnish and distinct 7-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels with a machined-finish on Touring and gloss black on Black Edition.
Every 2023 Pilot benefits from extensive improvements to the body, chassis and powertrain, safety technology, and overall driving refinement.
Pilot also introduces the second-generation of Honda’s award-winning torque vectoring i-VTM4™ all-wheel drive system, which is standard on all trims. The new and more capable i-VTM4™ system features a stronger rear differential that can handle 40% more torque and provides 30% faster response, optimizing traction in all driving scenarios, especially slick conditions and off-road.
Five standard selectable drive modes optimize the driving experience for various conditions: Normal, Econ, Snow, plus new Sport and Tow modes. EX-L models and above also feature a Sand mode and a new Trail mode which optimize Pilot’s off-road capabilities.In addition, all 2023 Pilot models come standard with an expanded Honda Sensing® suite of driver-assistive technologies.
Available for the first time on Pilot, a new HPD Package takes Pilot’s rugged new styling even further. Developed in collaboration with Honda Performance Development (HPD), Honda’s U.S.-based racing company, the HPD Package includes 20” matte black alloy HPD wheels, fender flares, side skid plate, HPD decals and HPD badging. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) begins with the Pilot Sport at $50,650. (excluding $1,950 for freight and PDI).