Honda Pilot vs. Acura MDX

 

The Honda Pilot and Acura MDX are both impressive SUVs with distinct features and characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The Honda Pilot is known for its family-friendly design, spacious interior, and reliable performance. It offers a comfortable ride, excellent safety features, and a well-balanced blend of power and fuel efficiency.
 

On the other hand, the Acura MDX offers a more luxurious and upscale driving experience. It boasts a higher level of interior refinement, advanced technology, and a sportier feel behind the wheel. The MDX is also available with more high-end options and offers a more premium overall driving experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Honda Pilot and Acura MDX will depend on one's priorities, whether it's a focus on practicality and value with the Pilot or a desire for a more luxurious ride with the MDX.

 

MSRP Comparison

 

Honda Pilot: $42,700 starting MSRP

 

Acura MDX: $49,850 starting MSRP

 

Both vehicles fall within a similar price range, but it's worth noting that the Acura MDX tends to be priced slightly higher than the Honda Pilot. This price differential reflects the Acura MDX's emphasis on premium features and its position as a more luxurious choice within the midsize SUV market, while the Honda Pilot offers a competitive option with its own set of practical features at a slightly lower price point.

 

Size Comparison

 

When it comes to choosing the right SUV, size can play a significant role in meeting various needs, from accommodating passengers to carrying cargo. In this comparison, we'll take a closer look at the size differences between the Honda Pilot and the Acura MDX.

 

The Honda Pilot and Acura MDX, while sharing some similarities in their overall size as midsize SUVs, also exhibit notable differences in their dimensions. Both vehicles are similar in length, with the Honda Pilot measuring approximately 196.5 inches, and the Acura MDX coming in at around 196.2 inches. They both provide ample space for passengers, typically accommodating 6 to 8 individuals depending on the configuration. 
 

 

 

However, where they diverge is in their cargo capacity. The Honda Pilot boasts a slightly larger cargo area behind the third row, offering about 16.5 cubic feet compared to the Acura MDX's approximately 15.8 cubic feet. When it comes to maximum cargo space with the rear seats folded down, the Honda Pilot also comes out ahead, offering approximately 83.9 cubic feet, while the Acura MDX provides around 71.4 cubic feet. So, while these SUVs share similar exterior dimensions and seating capacity, their differences lie primarily in cargo space, which may be a key consideration for buyers with specific storage needs.
 

 

 

Trim Comparison

 

Both the Honda Pilot and the Acura MDX offer a variety of trims for those who want to add additional features to their vehicles. Let's explore the trims of both vehicles:

 

Honda Pilot Trims:

• LX: Basic, entry-level, and value-oriented.
• Sport: Athletic, dynamic, with sporty accents.
• Elite: Premium, luxury, top-of-the-line.
• Trailsport: Off-road-ready, rugged, and adventurous.
• EX-L 8 Passenger: Comfortable, spacious, and well-equipped.
• Touring: High-end, tech-savvy, feature-rich.
• EX-L 7 Passenger: Comfortable, well-equipped, and family-friendly.

 

Acura MDX Trims:

• Base: Standard, entry-level, with essential features
• Technology Package: High-tech, advanced, with enhanced connectivity.
• A-Spec Package: Sporty, performance-oriented, stylish accents.
• Advance Package: Premium, luxury, with top-of-the-line features.
• Type S: High-performance, sport-tuned, and exhilarating.
• Type S w/Advanced Package: Ultimate performance, cutting-edge technology, top-tier luxury.

 

Warranty Comparison

 

Honda Pilot: 

• Basic Limited Warranty: Honda typically offers a 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty for the basic coverage. This warranty covers most components of the vehicle against defects in materials or workmanship.
• Powertrain Limited Warranty: Honda also provides a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. This warranty covers the major powertrain components, including the engine and transmission.
• Rust Perforation Limited Warranty: Honda usually includes a 5-year/unlimited-mile limited warranty against rust perforation, covering corrosion that leads to holes in the vehicle's body panels.
• Emissions Warranty: Federal law mandates an emissions control systems warranty, typically covering these components for 3 years/36,000 miles and major components for 8 years/80,000 miles.
• Accessory Limited Warranty: Genuine Honda accessories are often covered under a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty when installed at the time of purchase.

 

Acura MDX:

• Basic Limited Warranty: Acura typically offers a 4-year/50,000-mile basic limited warranty for new MDX vehicles. This warranty covers most components of the vehicle against defects in materials or workmanship.
• Powertrain Limited Warranty: Acura usually provides a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. This warranty covers major powertrain components, including the engine and transmission.
• Rust Perforation Limited Warranty: Acura often includes a 5-year/unlimited-mile limited warranty against rust perforation, covering corrosion that leads to holes in the vehicle's body panels.
• Emissions Warranty: Federal law mandates an emissions control systems warranty, typically covering these components for 3 years/36,000 miles and major components for 8 years/80,000 miles.
• Accessory Limited Warranty: Genuine Acura accessories are often covered under a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty when installed at the time of purchase.
• Acura Care Maintenance: Acura may offer prepaid maintenance plans, known as Acura Care Maintenance, which can cover scheduled maintenance services for a certain period or mileage.

 

It's important to note that specific warranty coverage may differ based on the model year, trim level, and the region in which the vehicle is purchased.

 

Safety Feature Comparison

 

Safety is a paramount consideration for any vehicle, and the Honda Pilot and Acura MDX are no exceptions. These SUVs prioritize safety as a fundamental aspect of their design, recognizing the importance of providing peace of mind to drivers and passengers. Here are a few notable safety features the Pilot and MDX provide:

Honda Pilot:

• Traffic Jam Assist
• ABS and Driveline Traction Control
• Airbag Occupancy Sensor
• Side Impact Beams
• Rear Child Safety Locks

 

Acura MDX

• Backup Camera w/Washer
• Driver Monitoring-Alert
• Tire Specific Low Tire Pressure Warning
• Traffic Jam Assist
• Side Impact Beams