pet connection

Sometimes our readers know more about DogCars than we do. At least the specific makes and models that we haven’t had the chance to test drive for review purposes yet.

Case in point, reader Ruth from Connecticut sent this e-mail asking why we haven’t reviewed the 2008 Honda Pilot.

It’s one of the few mid-sized SUV’s that fits two of the SUV side-by-side 21″ wide crates in the back with the second row seats still in place. I’d really like to read a review from a two dog owner’s perspective.

The answer: Because . . . well . . . we haven’t driven it yet. And now we learn that there’s a new design coming in 2009, so our time is limited to get into a 2008 model.

So we asked Ruth to help us out with a short review of the current version of the Honda Pilot. Here’s her view from the “Barking Lot.”

I don’t have a Pilot yet but am seriously considering it based on several of my friends stating that two of the Midwest SUV side-by-side crates (36 L x 21 W x 26 H) can fit in the back with the second row seats in place (possibly moved forward slightly).

I’ve looked at some Toyota products lately and even the 4Runner only has 41 inches of space between the rear wheel wells in the cargo area. We want a moderately sized SUV.

Right now we have a Volvo station wagon that is good on gas and quite dependable but it is not an off-road vehicle and we do field training (rough roads!) with our flatcoated retrievers. We need four-wheel drive. We don’t want a huge SUV particularly with gas prices being what they are. That’s why the Honda is looking so appealing. I was just hoping to read a review from a dog owner’s point of view.

I understand that Honda is doing a total remodel for 2009 and I’m afraid they might ruin it the way other car manufacturers have by curving everything to make it aerodynamic and dog-crate-useless.

A little research revealed that Ruth can rest easy. Honda’s redesign of the Pilot prototype (pictured above) appears to take on a more squarish look, which is good news for dog lovers.

Thanks, Ruth, for your thoughts. If anyone else has a personal review of their perfect DogCar, please send it to us at Askdogcars.com@gmail.com. Photos are always welcome too. We’d love to hear from you!