2019 Honda Pilot vs 2019 Acura MDX

The 2019 Acura MDX had long been a dominant force in the midsize, 3-row crossover segment, thanks to its continuous improvements and competitive pricing. By 2019, the MDX had received a series of updates, including a new A-Spec Package trim level, improved interior materials, and an adaptive damping suspension with the Advance Package. The A-Spec trim, in particular, featured a sportier look with unique front and rear bumpers, Shark Gray 20-inch wheels, and a mix of dark chrome and gloss black trim elements. Inside, the A-Spec boasted heated and ventilated front seats upholstered in red leather and black Alcantara suede, along with a special A-Spec steering wheel and red instrument panel illumination.

In contrast, the 2019 Honda Pilot received subtle visual updates that included more futuristic headlights, a cleaner lower front valence, and a grille design reminiscent of the refreshed Honda CR-V. The rear bumper and taillights also saw minor enhancements. Inside, the Pilot featured an updated steering wheel, a new proprietary shifter design, and an improved infotainment system. The Pilot's trims ranged from the base LX to the range-topping Elite, with each trim adding progressively more features, such as leather upholstery, a power tailgate, and a rear entertainment system. The Elite trim included a panoramic moonroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and a wireless charging pad.

The 2019 Acura MDX came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The A-Spec and Advance Package versions featured 20-inch wheels with 265/45 tires. The optional SH-AWD system, which was required for the A-Spec Package, provided torque-vectoring AWD and improved weight distribution. The MDX Sport Hybrid model, which combined a 3.0-liter V6 engine with three electric motors, delivered 321 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque, along with better city fuel economy. The MDX A-Spec offered a firm yet comfortable ride, with responsive steering and a Sport mode for spirited driving. During testing, the MDX A-Spec returned 19.7 mpg, slightly below its EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving.

The 2019 Honda Pilot, regardless of trim, came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Most trims featured a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the Touring and Elite trims received a 9-speed automatic. The 9-speed transmission included steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and a Sport mode for improved power management and fuel economy. The Pilot's driving experience was characterized by decent steering weight and response, but the gas and brake pedals felt vague, and there was noticeable body roll. The Pilot's fuel economy varied by trim, with the FWD Touring returning the best figures at 20 mpg city, 27 highway, and 23 combined. During testing, the AWD Elite trim achieved 23.1 mpg in combined driving.

The 2019 Acura MDX offered a comfortable and practical interior, with fantastic front seats, a GPS-linked triple-zone climate control system, and ample storage space. The second-row seats were suitable for both adults and children, while the third-row seats were less comfortable and best suited for occasional use. With the third-row seats folded, the MDX provided 38.4 cubic feet of cargo space, which expanded to 68.4 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. However, with all seats in use, cargo space was limited to 15 cubic feet.

The 2019 Honda Pilot excelled in providing adult-friendly third-row seating, making it one of the few midsize 3-row SUVs capable of accommodating adults for long trips. The Pilot also featured numerous storage spaces, including double-level in-door storage and 15 cupholders. Cargo volume varied by trim, with the base configuration offering 16.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, 46.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 83.9 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Pilot's cargo capacity was comparable to the Toyota Highlander and slightly less than the Subaru Ascent.

The 2019 Acura MDX's infotainment system featured a dual-screen setup, with the top display used for navigation and smartphone projection, and the bottom touchscreen for radio and secondary climate functions. While the system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it was criticized for its small screen size, low resolution, and poor voice-recognition system. The primary climate controls were separate from the screen, but heated and ventilated seat controls required using the touchscreen. AcuraLink Connect services were available with a free 90-day trial, offering features like automatic collision notification and SOS emergency calling.

The 2019 Honda Pilot introduced a new infotainment system with a much-appreciated Volume knob, improving user experience. The system, standard on trims above the base LX, featured crisp graphics and easy menu navigation. The Touring and Elite trims included a rear entertainment system with a flip-down screen and a pair of headphones, as well as rear USB ports and a mobile hotspot. The Pilot also offered parent-friendly tools like a wide-angle cabin mirror and the CabinTalk PA system, which allowed the driver to communicate with rear passengers through the rear entertainment system headphones or rear speakers.

The 2019 Acura MDX came standard with the AcuraWatch suite of safety systems, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The Technology Package added a blind-spot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with Acceptable ratings for headlight performance and child safety seat anchor accessibility. The MDX's Jewel Eye LED headlights included automatic high-beam activation but did not adapt to curves. AcuraLink Connect services were available with a free 90-day trial, offering features like automatic collision notification and SOS emergency calling.

The 2019 Honda Pilot also came standard with a comprehensive array of safety features, including front- and side-impact airbags, vehicle stability control, a reversing camera, and a tire pressure monitoring system with fill assist. The Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams, was standard on all trims. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was available on trims above the base LX.