2022 Kia EV6 vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2022 Kia EV6 was designed with a sporty and sleek aesthetic, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E. It featured a lower and wider stance, visually enhanced by its short highback tail with a lip spoiler that doubled as a lightbar. The wheels were pushed to the farthest corners of the chassis, giving the body a distinct, hipped appearance. The EV6's voluptuous curves, similar to those on a Porsche 911, added both style and stability. Its headlights squinted in a V-shaped pattern, complementing the black trim below the bumper, which mimicked sealed air intakes. The car's profile was sharp and angular, with a smooth lower body, especially in the matte silver paint of the test car. The interior boasted dual 12-inch screens, a floating center console, and seats covered in faux suede and leather, creating a futuristic yet driver-focused environment.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Pilot was redesigned with a more rugged and substantial appearance. It was larger than its predecessor, with an upright grille and boxier styling that emphasized its increased dimensions. The Pilot's TrailSport model was equipped with off-road enhancements, including a taller ride height, unique wheels, all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates. The interior took a more conventional approach, focusing on functionality and versatility. Materials quality was in line with class expectations, and the overall design emphasized practicality over form. The Pilot's utilitarian aesthetic was preferred over the previous generation, offering a balance of function and attraction.

The 2022 Kia EV6 GT-Line e-AWD was equipped with two electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 77-kilowatt-hour battery, allowing the 4600-pound car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds. The top-power GT trim promised 576 hp and a 0-60 time of less than 3.5 seconds. The base EV6 Light had a smaller battery and a less powerful motor, which was not recommended. The dual-motor GT-Line offered impressive torque distribution, with the rear motor driving the wheels until full power was needed. The EV6's regenerative braking system provided more than eight settings, allowing for one-pedal driving. However, the driving range was disappointing in cold weather, with the EV6 delivering only 65 percent of its 274-mile EPA estimate. Charging was efficient, but the charging network in the Boston to New York corridor was lacking.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all models. The Pilot's acceleration was quick, with a pleasant engine hum. The brake pedal was soft, suitable for a family SUV, and the Pilot cornered well for its size, though it was tuned for comfort rather than performance. The TrailSport model offered increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires, adding a subtle vibration on pavement. The Pilot maintained on-road composure and comfort, making it a versatile choice for both daily family duties and off-road adventures.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements, such as pop-out door handles, paddle shifters, and a rotary shifter. The climate controls were combined with stereo controls in a thin touchscreen, which could be frustrating while driving. The interior offered generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, the cargo space was limited, with 24 cubic feet behind the seats and 50 when folded. The EV6 had a towing capacity of 2,300 pounds and an onboard power generator for 120-volt equipment.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional, with a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level trims featured a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Pilot offered ample storage and convenience features, including a stowable second-row center seat and a large center console bin. The second row provided plenty of space for adults, while the third row was less inviting but suitable for short trips. The cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 114.3 cubic feet available when the second row was folded.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with quick settings adjustments and connectivity options, though wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a wired connection. The instrument panel displayed live feeds of blind spots and offered a 360-degree surround-view camera. The head-up display used augmented reality for navigation, and the tech features were impressive overall. However, Kia Connect features were disabled for Massachusetts residents due to compliance issues.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's infotainment system was functional, with quick responses and a logical layout. The EX-L trim and higher offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. The top Elite trim added a head-up display and a fully digital instrument panel. The Pilot also featured Honda's CabinTalk, a navigation system, Bose premium audio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The TrailSport and Elite trims included the multi-view TrailWatch camera system for off-roading.

The 2022 Kia EV6 had no published test results from U.S. agencies, but it came equipped with impressive tech, including the HDA system, lane-keeping, cyclist and pedestrian detection, and more. The GT-Line added evasive steering assist and adaptive cruise with "machine learning."

The 2023 Honda Pilot had not yet been tested by the NHTSA, but it received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing safety features included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking and parking sensors. The Pilot's safety features functioned well, with no false alarms during testing.