2023 Honda Pilot vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 Lexus GX made a visual statement with its massive spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance. With an overall height of 74.2 inches, the GX looked commanding on the road. The front end, dominated by vast headlights, seemed more than ready to conquer the road. The Black Line Special Edition, reintroduced in 2023, offered limited units with exclusive colors like Obsidian, Eminent White Pearl, and Nori Green Pearl.

However, from the side, the GX's 109.8-inch wheelbase and short overhangs gave the impression of compactness. Despite its luxury badge, the GX resembled a vehicle engineered for traversing rough terrains. The big, flared fenders lent a chunky look, although the overall design was sleeker compared to Toyota's current blocky aesthetic. Inside, the GX fell short in terms of luxury with an abundance of plastic materials, yet it offered features like heated and cooled seats and impressive leather upholstery.

The 2023 Honda Pilot, however, received a complete redesign for a more rugged and substantial appearance. The upright grille and boxier styling accentuated its increased dimensions, growing 3.4 inches longer, up to 1.5 inches wider, and 0.8 inches taller than its predecessor. This new design complemented the TrailSport model with genuine off-road parts, like a one-inch taller ride height, 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates.

The Pilot's interior emphasized functionality and versatility, maintaining its attractiveness. The materials met the high standards set by recent rivals. Overall, the 2023 Pilot's tidy and practical design ruled over its predecessor, making it a functional yet aesthetically pleasing family SUV.

The 2023 Lexus GX’s most defining feature was its V8 engine, which provided linear power and noise. The GX 460’s 4.6-liter V8 produced 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While not as technologically advanced as Toyota's new 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid, the GX’s V8 had a certain charm and sound that some drivers appreciated. Its towing capacity of 6,500 pounds was decent, though it lagged behind other SUVs.

Fuel economy was a weak spot, with EPA estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The GX’s heavy weight affected its handling, but its roll through corners was manageable and predictable. The vehicle’s driving dynamics saw improvements over the years, offering communicative road feel, strong brakes, and a responsive Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential for user-friendly driving in various conditions.

The 2023 Honda Pilot featured a new 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. While front-wheel drive was standard, all-wheel drive was available on all models and standard on the Elite and TrailSport trims. Initial acceleration was responsive, and the power was adequate for family duties. The brake pedal, though soft, offered smooth and easily modulated stops.

The Pilot handled corners well for a three-row SUV, focusing on comfort rather than sporty driving. Body roll was noticeable but not concerning. The TrailSport version provided an additional inch of ground clearance and all-terrain tires, enhancing off-road capability without compromising on-road comfort.

The Lexus GX offered practical cubby spaces but fell short on modern USB-C ports and oversized door pockets. Physical controls were a boon, avoiding the touch-sensitive trend and offering a user-friendly experience. The adjustable center console lid, comfortable second-row seats, and captain’s chairs with fold-out cupholders added to its appeal. However, the third row was too tight for regular use and the side-hinged trunk door was problematic. Cargo capacity was limited, with only 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with the third row down, and 64.7 cubic feet with both rows folded.

The Honda Pilot’s interior was more conventional but offered practical features like a dash shelf and logically placed controls. Storage was ample, with a large rubberized shelf, wireless charging pad, and a center console bin capable of holding a full-sized tablet. The second-row center seat could be stowed or removed easily, providing a pass-through for third-row access. Spacious second-row seats and a reasonably accommodating third row were highlights. Cargo space was significantly better than the GX, with 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 60.1 cubic feet with the second row folded, and a class-leading 114.3 cubic feet with all rear seats folded.

In 2023, the Lexus GX's tech felt outdated despite an update the previous year. The 10.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration was an improvement, but the system lagged and graphics were subpar compared to other Lexus models. A 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo and a CD player added some luxury, yet the GX’s real forte lay in its off-road technology. Equipped with a real 4WD system, kinetic dynamic suspension, and the Off-Road Package, it handled rugged terrains with ease.

The Honda Pilot, particularly starting from the EX-L trim, offered a larger infotainment touchscreen, wireless connectivity features, and USB ports in every row. Higher trims included a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and fully digital instrument panel. The touchscreen was responsive with a user-friendly layout, complemented by features like Honda's CabinTalk, navigation system, and Bose premium audio. The TrailSport and Elite trims also featured the multi-view TrailWatch camera system for enhanced off-road awareness.

Safety ratings for the 2023 Lexus GX were unavailable from both NHTSA and IIHS, but advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) were included. These comprised automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and automatic high beams, reflecting modern safety features despite the vehicle’s older structural design.

The 2023 Honda Pilot also awaited NHTSA results but received a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing safety features across all trims included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, traffic-jam assist, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign reader. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking, front and rear parking sensors, and multi-view camera systems. Advanced features worked flawlessly during testing, contributing to the Pilot's confidence-inspiring safety profile.