2023 Honda Pilot vs 2023 Acura MDX
2023 Honda Pilot vs 2023 Acura MDX
Overview
Acura is known for its luxurious SUVs that offer outstanding performance, while Honda offers an upscale experience and reliable performance without the hefty luxury badge attached. Let's find out whether the 2023 Honda Pilot outshines the 2023 Acura MDX in this review.
What's New?
This year's Acura MDX models hit showrooms with few changes, none of note. It is largely a carryover vehicle, though Acura now offers three years of AcuraLink services and complimentary maintenance for a limited period. The Honda Pilot, however, is all-new this year. The complete redesign offers additional passenger and cargo space, a new off-road TrailSport model, a new V-6 engine mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, and other features. Honda outdoes Mazda here.
Power and Performance
The Honda Pilot is powered by a single engine and transmission pairing: a 3.5-liter V-6 engine mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Acura MDX is powered by a similar engine, a 3.0-liter V-6 that generates comparable horsepower and torque. Engine power is a wash between these two vehicles. Where Honda stands out is its new TrailSport trim level. This off-road-oriented trim nets you features like a Class III trailer hitch, off-road stability management, increased ground clearance, and underbody skid plates for when you need to tackle the trails. In most other areas, the Acura and Honda are similar. Both offer outstanding technology and safety features at all levels. However, the 2023 Honda Pilot wins over the 2023 Acura MDX with its all-new design and off-road capabilities.