2020 Audi Q7 vs 2021 Honda Pilot

The 2020 Audi Q7 offered a sophisticated and modern design, with multiple engine variations to suit different preferences. The 55 TFSI model, priced from $60,800, featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine and came in Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige trims. The test vehicle, equipped with the Prestige package, Navarra Blue metallic paint, and additional packages, totaled $74,290. Audi's design updates enhanced the Q7's aesthetics, aligning it with the flagship Q8 model. The interior adopted a high-tech approach with three digital displays, including the Virtual Cockpit panel, and was adorned with Okapi Brown leather and Gray/Brown Fine Grain Ash wood inlays. The cabin exuded an upscale and high-tech vibe, further enhanced by multi-color ambient lighting.

The 2021 Honda Pilot aimed to balance style with practicality, offering seven different trims ranging from the base LX to the upscale Black Edition. Prices varied from $32,250 to $49,920, with all-wheel drive available for an additional cost on most trims. The new Special Edition trim introduced black alloy wheels and wireless smartphone charging. The Black Edition, tested with a $395 Platinum White Pearl paint job, was fully loaded at $51,435. It featured exclusive black leather upholstery with red accents and ambient lighting. The Pilot's interior was spacious, with quality materials and practical storage solutions, though its exterior design was less universally appealing.

The 2020 Audi Q7 55 TFSI was powered by a new 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, producing 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system. The Q7 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. It featured a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to enhance fuel efficiency, achieving an average of 21 mpg during testing. The adaptive air suspension and Audi Drive Select offered various driving modes, ensuring a comfortable and agile ride. The cabin remained quiet, thanks to dual-pane acoustic glass, and the SUV handled well on both paved roads and off-road trails.

The 2021 Honda Pilot was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. A nine-speed automatic transmission powered the front wheels, with an optional torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system available. The Pilot's fuel-saving features included variable-cylinder management and automatic engine stop/start, achieving an average of 21.5 mpg. The SUV offered a comfortable ride with its MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension, and the torque-vectoring AWD system enhanced handling. However, its off-road capability was limited by ground clearance and tire type.

The 2020 Audi Q7, while offering three rows of seats, was best suited for five passengers. The third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space to 14.2 cubic feet when in use. Folding it down expanded cargo capacity to 35.7 cubic feet, with a maximum of 69.6 cubic feet available. The Prestige trim's front seats were power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated, providing comfort for long journeys. The second-row seats offered ample legroom and climate control features. However, interior storage was limited, with minimal space for personal items.

The 2021 Honda Pilot provided ample room for up to eight passengers, with comfortable and supportive front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs, standard on higher trims, were nearly as comfortable as the front seats and offered heating. The third-row seat was less comfortable for adults due to its low cushion. The Pilot excelled in storage, with numerous compartments and a large center console. Cargo space measured 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 46.8 cubic feet with it folded, and a maximum of 83.9 cubic feet.

The 2020 Audi Q7 introduced the MMI Touch Response system, featuring a 10.1-inch and an 8.6-inch touchscreen. It included voice recognition, wireless smartphone integration, and a WiFi hotspot. While the system was generally intuitive, dry fingertips occasionally caused unresponsiveness. The Prestige trim added a head-up display and a Bose premium sound system, though the latter was replaced by a Bang & Olufsen system in 2021.

The 2021 Honda Pilot's infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and HondaLink services. The Touring trim added navigation, a WiFi hotspot, and a premium audio system. The system was adequate but lacked a tuning knob and required specific voice prompts. The Touring trim also featured a rear-seat entertainment system and Cabin Talk for communication with rear passengers.

The 2020 Audi Q7 was equipped with advanced driving-assistance systems, including Emergency Assist and Adaptive Cruise Assist. However, the traffic-sign recognition system occasionally misread signs, leading to abrupt braking. The IIHS rated the Q7 highly, except for its headlights, which received a "poor" rating.

The 2021 Honda Pilot came standard with Honda Sensing, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The system was functional but lacked refinement. The NHTSA awarded the Pilot a five-star overall rating, while the IIHS gave it high marks, except for an "acceptable" score for front passenger protection.