2022 INFINITI QX60 vs 2021 Honda Pilot

The 2021 Honda Pilot aimed to balance styling with reliability, safety, comfort, and performance. Despite efforts to enhance its rugged appearance with a 2019 refresh and a 2020 Black Edition, the exterior design remained polarizing. Available in five trims in Canada, the Pilot offered standard all-wheel drive and a price range from $42,905 to $56,805. The Black Edition, priced at $58,806 with optional paint, featured exclusive black leather upholstery with red accents, but its minivan-like front seat design and drab exterior did not appeal to everyone.

In contrast, the 2022 INFINITI QX60 underwent a complete redesign, marking the start of its second generation. The new exterior boasted a dramatic look with a prominent grille, slim LED headlights, and chrome accents, giving it a concept-car feel. The Autograph trim featured a contrasting black roof, enhancing its elegant appearance. Inside, the QX60 offered a spacious and luxurious cabin with quilted leather upholstery and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display. Built in Tennessee, the QX60 showcased high craftsmanship and build quality.

The 2021 Honda Pilot was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Its nine-speed automatic transmission and torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system provided smooth power delivery and agile handling. Fuel efficiency was rated at 11.0 L/100 km combined, with the test vehicle achieving 10.9 L/100 km. The Pilot's suspension offered a comfortable ride, while its 20-inch alloy wheels and responsive steering added to the driving enjoyment. However, its off-road capability was limited by modest ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The new nine-speed automatic transmission improved driving dynamics compared to the previous CVT. Fuel consumption was rated at 10.8 L/100 km combined. The QX60's suspension provided a smooth ride, and its electric power steering offered good feedback. While not designed for off-roading, the QX60 excelled on highways and suburban streets, offering a serene driving experience with ample passenger comfort.

The 2021 Honda Pilot offered seating for up to eight, with comfortable leather-wrapped front seats and optional second-row captain's chairs. The third-row seat was less comfortable for adults, but storage was abundant throughout the cabin. Cargo space measured 524 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,583 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 3,092 litres with all seats down.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 provided a luxurious interior with ample storage and charging ports. The second-row seats slid for easy access to the third row, which offered generous space for adults. Cargo capacity was 411 litres behind the third row, 1,178 litres with the third row folded, and 2,135 litres with both rows down. The QX60 also offered a towing capacity of up to 2,721 kilograms with the right equipment.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims added navigation, wireless charging, and a premium audio system. The Touring trim included a rear-seat entertainment system and Cabin Talk feature. However, the system's small screen and limited HondaLink services were drawbacks.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 impressed with its 12.3-inch InTouch Interactive infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. Higher trims included a head-up display, smart rearview mirror, and a 17-speaker Bose sound system. Infiniti InTouch services provided connectivity features, and the Intelligent Key stored personalized settings for multiple drivers.

The 2021 Honda Pilot came with Honda Sensing, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Touring trim added blind-spot monitoring. While crash-test ratings were generally favourable, the system's operation was not the smoothest.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as multiple airbags, forward emergency braking, and blind-spot warning. ProPilot Assist was standard on most trims, offering advanced driver assistance. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the previous model's high ratings suggested similar safety performance.