2023 Acura MDX vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2023 Acura MDX presented a sophisticated appearance with an array of options that suited different buyer preferences. When prospective buyers shopped for the Acura MDX, they encountered both standard and Type S versions, with varying trim packages that enhanced the vehicle's features. These included the base model, Technology, A-Spec, and Advance packages, while the Type S version came in either standard spec or with the Advance package. Prices spanned from $49,550 to $73,200, with an additional $1,195 destination charge. Our test model, a Type S Advance trim, boasted the extra-cost Apex Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid (white) interior. The MSRP for this configuration reached $74,995. Given the high price point, buyers expected a significant level of quality, luxury, and driving dynamism, and Acura partially delivered on these expectations. As the first Acura SUV to sport the Type S badge, subtlety characterized its design, a positive aspect considering the general undesirability of overtly advertising a vehicle's performance potential. The MDX Type S shared many styling elements with other MDX models, including chicane-design LED running lights and taillights, and LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation. Minor front styling tweaks and muted badges contributed to a restrained appearance, while 21-inch wheels provided a solid stance. Additionally, quad exhaust outlets and a rear diffuser panel added to the sporty aesthetic. A panoramic sunroof was standard across all MDX models, and most featured Iconic Drive ambient lighting themes named for great racetracks and drives worldwide. In terms of luxury, the Type S interior included perforated Milano leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package with a black headliner and stainless steel pedal covers. The Type S Advance version added open-pore wood and a leather-wrapped dashboard. Though visually appealing overall, the MDX had a few design drawbacks, such as the way its body tapered in at the doors, giving the impression of a massive dent from certain angles. Additionally, the gloss black plastic on the dashboard made some controls hard to use, and the electronic transmission switchgear was confusing. Meanwhile, the 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a comprehensive redesign, emerging with a more rugged and substantial appearance. Its upright grille and boxier styling enhanced its visual presence, and the new model was indeed larger than its predecessor. The Pilot grew by 3.4 inches in length, up to 1.5 inches in width, and 0.8 inches in height. These changes aligned with the Pilot's TrailSport model, which added genuine off-road features such as a taller ride height, unique 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates capable of supporting the vehicle's weight. Compared to the previous model, which prioritized appearance, these enhancements made the new TrailSport much more functional. Inside, the Pilot adopted a more conventional design, which was both attractive and highly functional. Materials quality met class expectations, and despite a few sophisticated competitors, the new Pilot's utility and aesthetics were commendable. With a focus on function, the Pilot managed to remain attractive without compromising practicality.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S stood out primarily due to its engine. It featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that produced 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, an increase of 65 hp and 87 lb-ft over the standard 3.5-liter V6. However, it also weighed 285 pounds more than the lightest standard MDX with AWD. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and equipped with Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), a system capable of directing up to 70 percent of power to a single rear wheel for enhanced handling. It also included Agile Handling Assist, a technology that used brakes to help tighten cornering lines. An Integrated Dynamics System offered multiple driving modes: Snow, Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Sport+, as well as an exclusive Lift mode that increased ground clearance from 7.3 inches to 9.4 inches. Despite these performance enhancements, the MDX Type S struggled to achieve a cohesive driving experience. The vehicle often felt like its various systems were not operating harmoniously, which detracted from driving enjoyment. The transmission exhibited indecisiveness, ride compliance was lacking, and brake pedal modulation was poor. Additionally, the turbocharged V6 did not deliver a substantial power increase over the standard engine, resulting in disappointing fuel economy figures. During evaluation, the MDX Type S averaged only 16.9 mpg, falling short of the EPA rating of 19 mpg combined. Driving modes offered varied experiences, with Normal being agreeable for city and highway driving, while Sport and Sport+ displayed inconsistent transmission responses and heavy fuel consumption. The Electro-Servo brake system inspired by the NSX sports car proved unreliable in providing linear and predictable brake feedback, especially for drivers who prefer trail braking into corners. Tyres squealed early, indicating the limits of their grip, and the suspension wasn't as compliant as expected. Body roll was also prominent, and the MDX Type S generally failed to establish the trust needed for a truly engaging driving experience. In contrast, the 2023 Honda Pilot utilized a new 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. FWD was standard for most trims, while AWD was available for all models and standard on the Elite and TrailSport trims. Initial acceleration was responsive with minimal delay, and the engine provided adequate power with a pleasant engine note under hard acceleration. The brake pedal, while soft, was easy to modulate, ensuring smooth stops. The Pilot handled corners competently, instilling confidence without encouraging sporty driving. Body roll was noticeable but not alarming, and the SUV was tuned for comfort rather than performance—a suitable approach for a family vehicle. Steering effort was light, facilitating maneuverability but feeling vague on the highway. The TrailSport model, with its increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires, maintained a comfortable on-road ride while offering legitimate off-road capabilities. Interestingly, the TrailSport's off-roading prowess did not result in a significant sacrifice in on-road comfort, a rare balance for moderately capable off-road vehicles.

Acura packed a wealth of functionality into the 2023 MDX, offering three rows of seating with a flexible second row that could accommodate two or three passengers. The cargo area was spacious and practical, featuring 18.1 cubic feet of space behind the third row, which expanded to 39.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 71.4 cubic feet maximum with both rear rows down. The top-tier Type S Advance trim included a triple-zone automatic climate control system and 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. These features were welcomed, but the seats lacked the enveloping comfort expected in a performance-oriented model. The MDX featured a second-row seat that could be adjusted for better third-row access. However, the third row proved tight for adults, making it more suitable for children. A power liftgate and underfloor storage bin boosted the MDX's cargo utility. In real-world use, the MDX excelled in handling family road trips, offering ample space for luggage and everyday items. Although interior storage was limited by the design choices prioritizing style, thoughtful features like grocery bag hooks and a hands-free liftgate mitigated these shortcomings. In comparison, the 2023 Honda Pilot's interior design was more practical, with thoughtful storage solutions across the cabin. The entry-level trims boasted a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims featured a nine-inch display. The layout was functional, with primary controls for climate and drive modes placed conveniently. The front passenger enjoyed a useful shelf, and a rubberized storage area accommodated two oversized phones, complemented by a wireless charging pad. The Pilot's highlight was the stowable second-row center seat, easily removed to create a pass-through for third-row access. This ingenuity ensured the middle seat could be stored under the cargo floor for times when it wasn't needed. The second row offered ample space for six-footers, while the third row was less comfortable but usable for short trips. The Honda Pilot excelled in cargo capacity, offering 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 60.1 cubic feet with the second row down, and a massive 114.3 cubic feet at full capacity, outperforming many rivals in this class.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured the Digital Precision Cockpit, consisting of a configurable 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. However, the infotainment system lacked touchscreen capabilities, relying on the True Touchpad Interface (TTI), which had mixed reviews. While the system included convenient buttons and a wrist rest, it created challenges in usability and reduced available storage space. Fortunately, the MDX supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing users to interact with familiar digital assistants like Siri and Google Assistant. The inclusion of Amazon Alexa Built-In further enhanced voice control capabilities. However, the native voice recognition system could be frustrating. Audio options ranged up to the Signature Edition ELS Studio 3D sound system with 25 speakers, delivering exceptional sound quality. The Advance package also added a 10.5-inch head-up display, though the accuracy of the traffic sign recognition system was questionable at times. Conversely, the 2023 Honda Pilot suggested opting for at least the EX-L trim to enjoy advanced technology features. The larger nine-inch infotainment touchscreen became available, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, accompanied by a wireless charger and USB ports across all rows. Higher trims included a multi-view camera system and head-up display, adding convenience for drivers. The Pilot's touchscreen was praised for its functionality, with quick responses and a user-friendly layout, despite less modern-looking graphics. Other high-tech features included Honda's CabinTalk, enabling the driver to communicate with rear passengers through the audio system. Top trims offered navigation, Bose premium audio, remote monitoring via smartphone apps, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and the TrailWatch camera system for enhanced off-road visibility.

The 2023 Acura MDX included the Acura Watch suite of safety features, which comprised forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front and rear parking sensors in higher trims. During testing, Acura Watch generally performed well, though there were issues such as false lane-departure warnings and a concerning incident where the system mistook an overhead sign for an obstacle, causing unexpected braking. In crash tests, the MDX earned excellent safety ratings. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+ for 2022, and the NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating, although frontal-impact protection for the driver and front passenger was rated at four stars. The 2023 Honda Pilot, though not yet rated by the NHTSA, was expected to achieve top scores. It had already received a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS. Standard safety features across all trims included forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, traffic jam assist, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and a driver attention monitor. EX-L trims and above added low-speed automatic braking and parking sensors, with TrailSport and Elite trims inclusive of a surround-view camera system. During the evaluation drive, the Honda Pilot's safety systems operated flawlessly, maintaining smooth and effective adaptive cruise control and absence of false alarms. The automatic braking and proximity warnings were advisable to be turned off during off-road adventures to prevent unnecessary triggers.