2024 Acura MDX vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more rugged and substantial appearance. Its upright grille and boxier styling not only made it look larger but also increased its dimensions, being 3.4 inches longer, up to 1.5 inches wider, and 0.8 inches taller than its predecessor. These changes complemented the all-terrain-capable TrailSport model, which featured a one-inch taller ride height, unique 18-inch wheels, chunky all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates. The interior adopted a more conventional styling, maintaining attractiveness and functionality, with materials quality meeting elevated class standards. Overall, the new Pilot emphasized function over form, offering a tidy and utilitarian aesthetic.

The 2024 Acura MDX boasted a striking design with a large shield grille, rakish headlights, and a modern lower bumper area. Inside, it was high-tech but busy, with a plethora of controls on the center console. The MDX was available in several trims, including the Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages, as well as the Type-S and Type-S Advance. Standard features included tri-zone automatic climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof. The Type-S Advance package added a 26-speaker ELS sound system and massaging front seats. While the MDX's cabin wasn't as luxurious as some competitors, it excelled in comfort and offered a sportier ride quality.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was equipped with a new 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all models and standard on the Elite and TrailSport trims. The Pilot offered quick acceleration and a pleasant engine sound, with a soft brake pedal suitable for a family SUV. It handled corners well for a three-row SUV, prioritizing comfort over sporty driving. The TrailSport model featured increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires, maintaining on-road composure and comfort while offering off-road capabilities.

The 2024 Acura MDX featured a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The Type-S variant came with a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, generating 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Power was managed by a 10-speed automatic transmission, with Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive System available. The Type-S Advance offered strong acceleration and a comfortable ride, with Brembo performance brakes and an adaptive air suspension. The MDX excelled on highways, providing a refined and comfortable experience, with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional compared to other new Honda models, offering a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level trims featured a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Elite trim's touchscreen was adequate, though future models might benefit from a larger screen. The Pilot offered logical placement of primary controls, ample storage options, and a stowable second-row center seat for added versatility. The second row provided ample space for adults, while the third row was less inviting. Cargo capacity reached up to 114.3 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2024 Acura MDX came standard with three rows of seating, with the first two rows being comfortable and supportive. The third row was smaller, best suited for children. Cargo space measured 16.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with seats folded. The MDX featured a power liftgate, with a hands-free option available. The Type-S Advance model included a second-row bench with a fold-down center console and integrated cupholders. The center console offered ample storage, though the center stack of controls was cluttered, with a touchpad shifter that required acclimation.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's EX-L trim and above offered a larger infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. Higher trims included a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and a fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was functional, with quick responses and a logical layout. Features like Honda's CabinTalk and a navigation system were available on Touring and Elite trims, while TrailSport and Elite trims included the TrailWatch camera system for off-roading.

The 2024 Acura MDX's infotainment system was its Achilles Heel, with a clumsy interface controlled by a touchpad. Despite this, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, satellite radio, HD radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. It also featured multiple USB ports, a fully digital instrument panel, and wireless device charging. The touchpad's placement was thoughtful, with a leather handrest above the wireless charging pad. However, the system's unintuitive nature made it less appealing compared to competitors like the Genesis GV80.

The 2023 Honda Pilot had not yet been rated by the NHTSA, but Honda expected top scores. It received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking and parking sensors. The TrailSport and Elite trims featured surround-view and multi-view camera systems. The advanced safety features functioned well, with adaptive cruise control maintaining smooth driving.

The 2024 Acura MDX came with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Technology Package added parking sensors and reverse automatic emergency braking, while the Advance package included a 360-degree camera system and head-up display. The 2022 MDX, which the 2024 model carried over from, earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. However, the infotainment system's distraction potential was a concern.