2024 Mazda CX-5 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 included off-road enhancements like a one-inch taller ride height, unique 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates. The interior adopted a more conventional style, maintaining attractiveness and functionality, with materials meeting elevated class standards. Overall, the 2023 Pilot emphasized function over form, offering a tidy and utilitarian aesthetic.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, with only minor changes. The new Carbon Turbo trim featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, adding to its modern and appealing look. Mazda improved the fuel economy for base engine versions, added wireless charging, and introduced wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to several trims. The CX-5 lineup included 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo models, with the Turbo offering up to 256 horsepower. Despite being a compact crossover, the CX-5 felt upscale, with upgraded interior materials and technology, providing a premium experience at a mainstream price.

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 initial acceleration and a comfortable ride, prioritizing family-friendly comfort over sporty driving. The TrailSport model added off-road capabilities with increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires, maintaining on-road composure and comfort.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, when fueled with premium gas, produced 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. Regular gas yielded 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The powertrain was more rewarding with a steady acceleration approach, though it wasn't fuel-efficient, with a combined rating of 24 mpg. The CX-5 offered excellent visibility and confident handling, with a re-tuned suspension for a smoother ride and standard all-wheel drive. It featured Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus for enhanced cornering and stability, providing a sophisticated driving experience.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional, with 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 Pilot offered logical placement of controls, ample storage, and clever features like a stowable second-row center seat. The second row provided abundant space for adults, while the third row was less inviting. Cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 114.3 cubic feet available with seats folded.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered standard heated front seats, with comfortable and supportive designs. The interior featured leather upholstery on most trims, with premium Nappa leather on the top-tier model. The CX-5 was snug for four adults, with supportive rear seats and thoughtful features like rear air conditioning vents. The cabin design and quality elevated the CX-5 above most rivals, though storage space was somewhat limited. Cargo capacity was 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2023 Honda Pilot, starting from the EX-L trim, 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 features like Honda's CabinTalk and a Bose premium audio system enhanced the experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured traditional switchgear for controls, with a 10.25-inch display offering touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was navigated using a large knob and surrounding buttons, though the native voice interface was less intuitive. Mazda Connected Services provided remote engine starting, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and more. Several trims included a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, adding to the premium feel.

The 2023 Honda Pilot had not yet been rated by the NHTSA, but it received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing 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 safety features performed well, with no false alarms experienced during testing.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with advanced driving assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights, a traffic sign recognition system, and more. The CX-5 had previously received a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, though not in 2024. The NHTSA awarded it five-star ratings, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.