2019 Honda Pilot vs 2020 Lexus RX

The 2019 Honda Pilot underwent subtle visual updates that were noticeable to the keen eye of a Honda enthusiast. The headlights adopted a more futuristic design, and the lower front valence was refined for a cleaner look. The grille was redesigned to resemble the larger version of the Honda CR-V's front grille, featuring a prominent Honda "H" logo. At the rear, the taillights incorporated more white and amber elements, giving the Pilot a slightly more distinguished appearance. Inside, updates included a new steering wheel, Honda's proprietary shifter design, and an upgraded infotainment system. The interior changes were minimal, with slight modifications to the climate-control vents. The Pilot offered various trims, from the base LX with essential features to the range-topping Elite, which included luxury amenities like a panoramic moonroof and heated seats.

In contrast, the 2020 Lexus RX received more significant styling changes, allowing it to stand out in a competitive market. The exterior featured standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlights. The grille was redesigned to align with Lexus cars, and new paint colors were introduced. The rear of the RX was refreshed with a new shape, dual exhaust, and updated reflectors. Inside, the RX maintained its well-appointed cabin with various interior color and material options. The F Sport package added unique styling elements and performance-focused features. While the RX's interior wasn't as minimalist as its German counterparts, it offered a premium feel with leather-wrapped surfaces and a functional design.

The 2019 Honda Pilot was equipped with a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine across all trims, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided solid acceleration and included features like cylinder deactivation and auto stop/start for fuel efficiency. The Pilot's transmission options included a 6-speed automatic for most trims and a 9-speed automatic for the Touring and Elite trims. The 9-speed transmission offered paddle shifters and a Sport mode for enhanced driving dynamics. The Pilot's driving experience was characterized by a soft ride, decent steering response, and a bit of body roll. It offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, with various drive modes for different terrains. Fuel economy varied by trim and transmission, with the most efficient setup achieving 23 mpg combined.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The RX 350L models had slightly reduced power output. A hybrid version, the RX 450h, combined the V6 with an electric motor for a total of 308 horsepower. The RX's performance was smooth, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds for most models. The RX 350 achieved an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined, while the hybrid RX 450h excelled with 30 mpg combined. The RX F Sport models featured adaptive variable suspension and sport-tuned features for improved agility. The RX offered various drive modes, including an EV mode for hybrid models, enhancing its versatility.

The 2019 Honda Pilot stood out among midsize 3-row SUVs for its adult-friendly third-row seating, making it suitable for long trips. It offered ample space for kids and their gear, with double-level in-door storage and 15 cupholders throughout the cabin. Cargo space varied by trim, with up to 83.9 cubic feet available with all seats folded. The Pilot's cargo capacity was competitive, though slightly less than top performers like the Volkswagen Atlas and Chevrolet Traverse.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior was comfortable for four adults in the two-row model, but the third row in the RX-L was best suited for small children. The cabin was spacious in its two-row configuration, with comfortable front seats and good visibility. However, the RX's cargo area was smaller than its rivals, with a high load floor that compromised space. The RX 350L and 450hL models had even less cargo space compared to competitors like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on RX models, adding convenience.

The 2019 Honda Pilot featured a new infotainment system with a much-appreciated Volume knob, improving user experience. The touchscreen, standard on trims above the base LX, offered crisp graphics and easy navigation. The Touring and Elite trims included a rear entertainment system with a flip-down screen and headphones, along with rear USB ports and a mobile hotspot. Parent-friendly features like the CabinTalk PA system allowed communication with rear passengers through headphones or speakers.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was often criticized, but improvements were made for 2020. The display was moved closer to the driver, and the system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other integrations to enhance functionality. The 12.3-inch touchscreen was available, though navigation remained challenging. The RX offered six USB ports and a standard 12-speaker audio system, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system. The touchpad system was improved but still not perfect.

The 2019 Honda Pilot came standard with a comprehensive array of safety features, including front- and side-impact airbags, vehicle stability control, and a reversing camera. The Honda Sensing suite, standard on all trims, included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was available on higher trims.

The 2020 Lexus RX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2020 model added daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, road-sign assist, and lane-tracing assist. The RX received good safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models. Lexus Enform Safety Connect and Service Connect subscriptions were included, though connectivity issues were noted during testing.