2024 Kia Sorento 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 contributed to its actual increase in size, 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 took a more conventional styling route, maintaining attractiveness and functionality, with materials quality meeting elevated class standards. Overall, the 2023 Honda Pilot emphasized function over form, offering a tidy and utilitarian aesthetic.

The 2024 Kia Sorento received its first major visual update since its 2021 debut, aligning more closely with its siblings like the Telluride and EV9. It featured a bold new front end, vertically-stacked LED headlights, and wing-like amber LED daytime running lights, giving it a more intimidating presence. The rear updates were subtle, with higher trims getting LED taillights and new bumpers. Inside, the Sorento boasted a new dashboard with a vast horizontal expanse, combining the gauge cluster and infotainment displays under a single pane of glass. The cabin materials were upgraded, with faux open-pore wood grain and quality stitching on the optional leather-wrapped steering wheel and seats. The 2024 Sorento felt more upscale and solidly assembled, offering a comfortable and modern interior.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 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 initial acceleration and a pleasant engine hum, though power was adequate rather than impressive. It was tuned for comfort, with a soft brake pedal and feather-light steering, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The TrailSport model added an inch of ground clearance and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities without sacrificing on-road comfort.

The 2024 Kia Sorento retained most of its mechanical components, with the base engine being a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. This engine struggled with the Sorento's weight, resulting in sluggish performance. Higher trims featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, offering more lively performance. The Sorento was front-wheel drive by default, with all-wheel drive available as an option. It cornered confidently, with well-weighted steering and effective brakes. The X-Pro trim offered enhanced off-road capabilities with 17-inch rims and all-terrain tires, providing a smoother ride and more grip on loose terrain. The Sorento's towing capacity varied, with the X-Pro rated at 4,500 pounds.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional compared to other new Honda models, featuring a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level trims had a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Pilot offered plenty of clever storage solutions, including a stowable second-row center seat that provided a useful pass-through for third-row passengers. The second row offered ample space for adults, while the third row was less inviting but suitable for short trips. The Pilot's cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 114.3 cubic feet available with all seats folded.

The 2024 Kia Sorento's cabin was upscale and modern, offering comfortable seating in the first two rows but a tighter third row. It provided 41.4 inches of legroom in the front and 41.7 inches in the second row, with optional captain's chairs. The third row offered 29.6 inches of legroom, suitable for children or short trips. The Sorento's new dash was ergonomic, with plenty of small-item storage space. Cargo capacity was limited with the third row in use, but folding it down provided up to 72.1 cubic feet of space. Higher trims featured a power liftgate for added convenience.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's EX-L trim and higher 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, a 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 Bose premium audio system were available on higher trims, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2024 Kia Sorento featured a single-pane, twin-screen setup with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a redesigned software system called "Connected Car Navigation Cockpit" (CCnC). The system prioritized popular features and offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Sorento also included USB-C outlets in all three rows and an auxiliary jack. Higher trims featured a Bose 12-speaker surround sound system and Digital Key 2.0, allowing for keyless access and driving.

The 2023 Honda Pilot had not yet been rated by the NHTSA, but it received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking and parking sensors. The Pilot's safety features performed well, with no false alarms during testing.

The 2024 Kia Sorento's Drivewise suite included a comprehensive set of standard and optional safety features. Standard features included adaptive cruise control, forward automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. Optional features included navigation-based adaptive cruise control and Highway Driving Assist 2. The Sorento had not yet been fully evaluated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but it received "Good" ratings in some tests.