2020 Honda Pilot vs 2019 BMW X5

The 2019 BMW X5 was designed with a focus on delivering a sedan-like driving experience, despite its size and weight. BMW's approach was to prioritize on-road comfort over off-road capabilities, a decision that proved prescient as consumer preferences shifted towards smoother rides. The X5 offered a five-passenger layout, expandable to seven, though the third row was notably cramped. It came with two turbocharged engine options: a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder and a 4.4-litre V8, both paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. The base model included a range of features such as adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a digital gauge cluster, with numerous optional upgrades available.

The 2020 Honda Pilot shared the dynamic styling of Honda's lineup, featuring thin LED headlights and a multi-tiered grille. Its design cleverly masked its size, giving it a sleeker appearance. Inside, the Pilot boasted a modern cabin with a semi-digital instrument panel and a spacious, comfortable interior. However, it used hard plastics in many areas, which detracted from its refinement compared to rivals like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. The Pilot was available in several trims, each adding more features, with the Black Edition offering unique styling elements. The cabin was designed for family use, with ample space and practical features like a conversation mirror and CabinTalk for easy communication with rear passengers.

The 2019 BMW X5 was powered by a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine in the xDrive40i, delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided smooth and consistent power, especially in Sport mode, and was paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission that offered seamless shifts. The xDrive50i variant featured a twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 with 456 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in around 4.7 seconds. The X5's ride quality was impressive, thanks to its Cluster Architecture platform and optional air suspension, which allowed for adjustable ride height and excellent bump absorption.

The 2020 Honda Pilot was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It came with a six-speed automatic transmission on lower trims and a nine-speed automatic on the Touring and Black Edition trims. The V6 provided strong acceleration for everyday driving, though it wasn't the segment leader in performance. The Pilot's ride was tuned for comfort, making it ideal for commutes and road trips, though it lacked athleticism. The Intelligent Traction Management System offered various drive modes for different conditions, enhancing its versatility.

Inside the 2019 BMW X5, the design featured aggressive angles and dual 12.3-inch screens for the iDrive infotainment system. While the design was appealing, some materials felt less premium compared to competitors. The seats were somewhat uncomfortable, with limited adjustability and ventilation. However, the X5 offered ample space, with 960 litres of cargo capacity, expandable to 2,047 litres with the seats down. The split rear tailgate and air suspension made loading cargo easier, and the X5 could tow up to 3,000 kilograms.

The 2020 Honda Pilot provided a spacious cabin with seating for up to eight passengers, or seven with optional second-row captain's chairs. The third row was adult-friendly, offering ample head and legroom. With the second and third rows folded, the Pilot offered 1,583 litres of cargo space, surpassing many rivals. Higher trims included a power liftgate and hands-free tailgate. The Pilot was designed for family use, with numerous storage spaces and practical features like a conversation mirror and CabinTalk for easy communication with rear passengers.

The 2019 BMW X5's technology was a mixed bag. The gesture control and voice commands were inconsistent, and the iDrive interface, while well-designed, required a learning curve. The driving-assistance features, offering limited hands-off driving, were unreliable at high speeds, though the stop-and-start traffic feature worked well. Optional features included Parking Assistant Plus, a night-vision system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Harman Kardon stereo provided excellent sound, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins system for audiophiles.

The 2020 Honda Pilot featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system had a confusing layout, lacking a tuning knob and relying heavily on the touchscreen. Higher trims included navigation, a rear entertainment system, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Touring and Black Edition trims offered an upgraded audio system and wireless charging pad.

The 2019 BMW X5 featured a new brake-by-wire setup, providing a nearly natural feel. It received a four-star rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side crash tests, and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.

The 2020 Honda Pilot came standard with the HondaSensing suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Good rating from the IIHS, with a Superior score in crash prevention technology.