Acura MDX vs Honda Pilot: The Fancy One Has Less Room And A Bigger Bill

Mid-sized SUVs are often the default choice for larger families who are done with lanky teenagers constantly kicking the front seat backrests on long trips. Three-row models add an extra layer of practicality, allowing for more passengers or cargo when required.

The Honda Pilot represents the practical no-nonsense end of the spectrum, offering plenty of interior storage, and rugged everyday usability. The Acura MDX may be largely based on the Pilot, but it is targeted more towards the sportier luxury segment, featuring eye-catching styling and upscale materials at the expense of some practicality.

We compare them across pricing, performance, and reliability metrics to see how these two models differ from each other, and to get a more accurate gauge of what each one does best.

Honda Pilot

View the 3 images of this gallery on the
original article

Model Years: 2023–on

Base MSRP:$42,395

The Honda Pilot was completely redesigned for 2023, offering several improvements over the outgoing model, but retaining (an updated) version of the venerable 3.5-liter V6 engine. It is available in seven unique trims, each adding more standard kit and opening up desirable optional features the higher you go. Trailsport versions have additional off-roading capabilities thanks to standard features like all-terrain tires, off-road tuned suspension, a 1.0-inch lift and steel skid plates.

A recent update introduced standard 12.3-inch touchscreens and a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster across all trims, as well as some interior and exterior changes to keep the Pilot competitive with newer rivals. The V6 powerplant is smooth and capable, and the interior can seat up to 8 people depending on the trim level. The third-row can seat adults for shorter journeys, and with it folded down, cargo space ranges between 111.8 and 113.7 cubic feet. It may not be sporty, or particularly fast, but the Pilot is a great family vehicle that is comfortable and spacious for larger families.

Acura MDX

View the 3 images of this gallery on the
original article

Model Years: 2022–on

Base MSRP:$51,800

Acura released its new generation MDX in 2022, a year before the fourth-gen Honda Pilot arrived which it shares much of its underlying architecture with. But, while both share the same base 3.5-liter V6(although with 5-hp more power), and 10-speed automatic, the MDX is also available with a 355-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 and comes with more standard features even in its lowest trim. The suspension system has also been completely revised, giving the MDX sharper handling. And, aside from the more powerful engine, the MDX can also be had with Brembo brakes, and air suspension, all features not offered on the Pilot.

The MDX is split up into six different trim levels, with the two base offerings available with either front or all-wheel drive. All other trims come standard with AWD and the Type S Advance is the only one to be fitted with the 3.0-liter turbocharged engine. FWD models are rated to tow up to 3.500 lbs, while AWD variants can tow up to 5,000 lbs regardless of engine option. The MDX seats up to seven, and while the second row features a clever multi-function center seat that can be folded down as an armrest, the third row is best reserved for smaller passengers. The cargo is a fairly decent 71.4 cubic feet when the second and third rows are folded flat, but well behind what the Pilot offers.

MDX vs Pilot: Reliability

View the 2 images of this gallery on the
original article

Both the Acura MDX and Honda Pilot achieved similar reliability scores across various platforms, perhaps not all that surprising considering the common 3.5-liter V6 powerplant and shared underpinnings. However, more MDX owners complained of technical glitches and early cars had buggy infotainment systems. This was less of a concern with the Pilot, possibly due to it being introduced a year later by which time Honda could implement updates and fixes.

There is not much data on the turbocharged power unit found in the MDX Type S, most likely because of its very low sales figures, but the shared 10-speed automatic was considered reliable overall, aside from low-speed jerkiness experienced by some Honda Pilot owners. Overall, both models are above average for their respective classes, and running costs should be notably lower than for some pricier German alternatives in the long run.

MDX vs Pilot: Pricing and Preferences

View the 2 images of this gallery on the
original article

The base Honda Pilot starts off at a competitive $42,395 before taxes. Factor in a few options like the $895 towing package, and the $2,100 AWD powertrain layout, and you will be up to $46,885. That may seem like a lot for a base model mid-size SUV, but this is still in the ballpark compared to its rivals.

Most owners will opt for the higher spec models which offer upgrades like a stowable second-row center seat, panoramic moonroof, and hands-free tailgate access. The top-spec Black Edition comes standard with it all, as well as AWD and adding the towing package to this trim brings the total to $56,690 including destination charges.

A base Acura MDX starts off at $51,800 in FWD trim and adding AWD ($2,200) and a trailer hitch ($1,775) brings it to $55,775 including destination charges. That is almost on par with the priciest Honda Pilot you can buy, and this is only the MDX’s starting point.

The A-Spec Advance Spec Packages variant will set you back just over $70,000 including destination fees, while the 355-hp turbocharged Type S Advance can be specced up to almost $80,000 when you get carried away with the box ticking.

The Honda Pilot makes the most sense in EX-L trim, with or without the AWD system, while the Trailsport is a great option for those who regularly enjoy heading off-road on the weekends. The MDX, meanwhile, offers more standard spec and a sharper drive than the Pilot, but you pay over $9,400 more for the entry-level model, and have to compromise on interior space.

The sporty MDX Type S gets the more powerful 355-hp engine, but  at over $75,000 it prices itself out of contention, especially compared to similarly priced German SUV rivals. We’d stick to the mid-level MDX models, like the Technology and A-Spec instead, which are packed with kit but still come in at just over $60,000.

Compared to each other, the Pilot is the better value option if you need added practicality and space, while the MDX offers enough of a premium feel to justify its extra cost, just don’t get carried away with the options.