2023 Acura MDX vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2023 Acura MDX presented a sophisticated yet subtle design, especially in its Type S variant. This model was the first Acura SUV to sport the Type S badge, which stood for a more understated performance aesthetic. The MDX Type S featured chicane-design LED running lights and taillights, LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation, and 21-inch wheels that provided a commanding stance. Inside, the Type S Ultra trim boasted quilted leather, aluminum interior trim, and a Sport Appearance package, enhancing its luxury appeal. However, some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made controls difficult to use, and the electronic transmission switchgear was occasionally confusing.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a complete redesign, adopting a more rugged and substantial appearance. The fourth-generation Pilot was larger, with an upright grille and boxier styling that emphasized its increased dimensions. The TrailSport model, in particular, embraced an all-terrain capability with a taller ride height, unique wheels, and underbody skid plates. The interior took a more conventional approach, focusing on functionality and versatility. The Pilot's design emphasized practicality, with features like heated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada, making it a family-friendly choice.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. This was a significant increase over the standard 3.5-litre V6, but the Type S also weighed more, impacting its performance. The engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which could direct up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel. Despite these enhancements, the MDX Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive driving experience. The transmission was indecisive, the ride lacked compliance, and the brake pedal response was inconsistent. Fuel economy was also a concern, with the Type S averaging 13.9 L/100 km during testing, falling short of official ratings.

The 2023 Honda Pilot featured a new 3.5-litre V6 engine, generating 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Honda's i-VTM4 AWD system, the Pilot offered quick acceleration and a smooth driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the Pilot was tuned for comfort, with light steering and a soft brake pedal. The TrailSport variant added off-road capabilities with increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires, maintaining on-road composure and comfort. The Pilot's towing capacity reached up to 2,268 kg, making it a versatile choice for families seeking adventure.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a spacious interior with three rows of seats and flexible second-row configurations. The Type S Ultra trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, wrapped in quilted leather. However, the seats were firm and didn't provide the expected support during spirited driving. The MDX's third row was best suited for children, and storage space within the cabin was limited due to design choices. The cargo area was practical, with 461 litres of space behind the third row and up to 2,021 litres with both rear rows folded.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional, with a focus on practicality. The entry-level Sport trim featured a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Pilot excelled in storage solutions, with a dash shelf, large centre console bin, and clever features like the stowable second-row centre seat. The second row offered ample space for adults, while the third row was less accommodating but suitable for short trips. The Pilot's cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 3,219 litres available behind the front seats, surpassing competitors like the Kia Telluride.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. However, the infotainment system relied on a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) instead of a touchscreen, which was less intuitive and reduced storage space. The MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa Built-In, and a premium ELS Studio 3D audio system with 25 speakers. A head-up display was available with higher trims, but the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's technology package was more user-friendly, especially in the EX-L trim and above. It included a larger touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. The Touring trim added a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and a Bose premium audio system. The infotainment system was responsive, with a logical layout and large on-screen buttons, prioritizing functionality over flashy graphics.

The 2023 Acura MDX came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a collision mitigation braking system, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and Traffic Jam Assist. It also included rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it earned four stars in frontal-impact tests. However, the MDX's safety systems occasionally issued false alerts, such as mistaking an overhead sign for an obstacle.

The 2023 Honda Pilot also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, though the NHTSA had not yet rated it. Standard Honda Sensing safety features included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and a blind-spot monitor. Higher trims added front and rear parking sensors and a surround-view camera system. During testing, the Pilot's safety features performed reliably, with no false alarms and smooth operation of adaptive cruise control.