2023 Honda Pilot vs 2024 Volvo XC90

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 meeting elevated class standards. Overall, the new Pilot emphasized function over form, offering a tidy and utilitarian aesthetic.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was available in B5, B6, and Recharge T8 model series, each with standard all-wheel drive. The Recharge T8, a plug-in hybrid, offered the most performance with 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque, and an estimated 32 miles of electric-only range. The XC90 came in Core, Plus, and Ultimate trims, with prices ranging from $56,000 to $79,600, excluding destination charges. The Ultimate trim featured luxurious amenities like massaging front seats, a premium headliner, and a high-end Bowers & Wilkins audio system. The XC90's exterior paint palette was subdued and earthy, aligning with its luxury SUV status. Inside, the design was dated but rich in materials, with options like wool-blend upholstery and ventilated Nappa leather. The XC90 allowed for customization in paint, wheels, and upholstery, catering to discerning customers.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft 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 adequate power, with a soft brake pedal suitable for a family SUV. It cornered well for a three-row SUV, prioritizing comfort over sporty driving. The TrailSport model increased ground clearance by an inch and featured all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities without sacrificing on-road comfort.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor, delivering 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. It offered 32 miles of electric-only driving and an estimated 27 mpg in hybrid mode. The XC90 featured multiple driving modes, including Pure, Power, Hybrid, and Off-Road, with up to 9.9 inches of ground clearance. Despite its power, the XC90 was more of a luxury SUV than a performance one, with firm ride quality and less thrilling handling. The steering was not particularly sharp or communicative, but the SUV excelled in comfort and luxury.

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 Elite trim's touchscreen was adequate but seemed small for the space. The Pilot offered logical placement of climate and drive mode 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 but suitable for short trips. Cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 114.3 cubic feet available.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8, even in Core trim, was well-equipped with power-adjustable and heated front seats, leather upholstery, and a four-zone climate control system. The panoramic glass roof added natural light, and higher trims offered additional features like a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats with massage. The front seats were comfortable, though the adjustable lower leg support bolsters could catch on clothing. The XC90 seated seven or six with captain's chairs, with adequate interior storage and cargo capacity of up to 85.7 cubic feet with the second-row seat folded.

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, with the TrailSport and Elite trims offering the TrailWatch camera system for off-roading.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in technology, including Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite radio were standard, with premium sound system options available. The infotainment system was intuitive, with a stereo volume knob and radio tuning buttons. The XC90 also included a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and optional head-up display and surround-view camera.

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 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 Pilot's safety features functioned well, with adaptive cruise control maintaining smooth inputs.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was synonymous with safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA in most assessments and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS in 2023. However, its advanced driving assistance systems were not as innovative as rivals. The XC90 included Pilot Assist, which paired adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist, though it struggled with certain road conditions. Despite this, the XC90's safety features worked smoothly overall.