Honda Pioneer Intro Video
Recognizing that “one size does not fit all”, Honda has expanded its Pioneer utility range to encompass 500cc, 520, 700cc and 1000cc versions with multiple variations of these family members. But the personalization continues even beyond that for the Pioneer 1000-5. Two district packages — Trail and Forest — were presented in Pioneer, Tennessee. But wait, there's more! In addition to the two styles of five-seater, a brand range of accessories were already in stock as the vehicles were launched.
“As capable as the Pioneer 1000 is, Honda knows that side-by-side customers typically enjoy personalizing their vehicles to make them their own, and to outfit them for specific applications,” explains Colin Miller, Honda’s Marketing & Public Relations Manager. For 2022, there are more than 90 Pioneer 1000 accessories, many of which are new and improved… like the bumper found on the Forest model and the Fox shocks fitted to the Trail Edition.
“Here in front of you, we have the Forest model, which includes a larger front bumper — it's basically our accessory full coverage front bumper, with a winch already installed from the factory,” notes Miller. The beefy front end was updated to accommodate the factory-installed 4,500 lb. Warn VRX 45 winch.
“This model also has self-leveling suspension straight from the factory, as well as many other integrated accessories such as interior lighting, additional electrical outlets in the cab and the bed,” he points out. “It also has a pre-wired system for installing different switches.” Speaking of switches, there is a “Hill Start Assist” button on the dash, but we didn’t test it in Tennessee, so we will just have to assume HSA works are advertised. Bed/interior lights worked as billed, though.
“Storage was addressed as well… inside there is additional compartments for storage in the cab and underneath the seats.” And in response to overwhelming customer demand, there are now multiple cup-holders. The customers have spoken and Honda has listened, hence more cup-holders, quips Miller.
“The Pioneer-5 really is something that's a great starting point,” he says. “In addition to the Forest model, we also have our Trail edition, which is geared a little bit more towards the sporty rider… someone who's out on the trail, really looking for a nice, spirited ride. That model still comes with a winch, but also comes with our Fox QS3 shocks.” Given its more utilitarian approach, the Forest gets a self-leveling suspension system from the factory for those hunters who have bagged an elk or ranchers hauling hay. Honestly, on the trails around Tennessee, both systems did well.
“The Trail version gets a lot of the interior upgrades that you're getting with the Forest version, including the extra storage in the front of the cab and under the seat. You also have the pre-wired electrical accessory outlets for the back bed as well as the front cab. The Forest and the Trail are two great points to really get your side-by-side game going!”
