2024 Lexus TX vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more rugged and substantial appearance. Its upright grille and boxier styling not only made it look larger but also increased its dimensions, being 8.6 centimetres longer, up to 3.8 cm wider, and 2 cm taller than its predecessor. These changes complemented the all-terrain-capable TrailSport model, which featured a 2.5 cm taller ride height, unique 18-inch wheels, chunky all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates. The interior adopted a more conventional styling, maintaining attractiveness and functionality, with materials meeting elevated class standards. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard in Canada, emphasizing a utilitarian aesthetic that prioritized function without sacrificing appeal.

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, distinguished itself as a luxury SUV with upscale looks. The TX's styling was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who found previous designs off-putting. It came in TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486. The TX 350, likely the volume-selling version, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard AWD. The interior, though luxurious, felt dark with the Peppercorn interior and black-grained trim, even with a panoramic glass sunroof. Despite this, the TX 350's interior was luxurious enough to bear the Lexus badge.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was powered by a new 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada. Its acceleration was quick, with a pleasant engine hum when pushed. The Pilot prioritized comfort over performance, with a soft brake pedal and light steering, making it ideal for family use. The TrailSport model offered increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities without sacrificing on-road comfort. It had a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs), making it versatile for family adventures.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in about eight seconds, feeling quicker due to its torque. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 L/100 km in combined driving, though testing showed an average of 13.8 L/100 km. The ride and handling were balanced, with a firm yet comfortable suspension and accurate steering. The brake pedal was soft but easy to modulate, ensuring smooth stops. Overall, the TX 350 offered adequate performance for a luxury SUV.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional, with a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level Sport trim featured a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Touring trim offered a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and fully digital instrument panel. The Pilot excelled in storage and convenience features, with clever solutions like the stowable second-row centre seat and ample cargo space. It offered 635 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 3,219 litres with seats folded, making it highly practical for families.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a comfortable interior with premium materials, though the front seats lacked a massage function. The second-row seat was less welcoming due to its flat cushion, but the third-row seat was habitable for adults. The TX provided 572 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 2,746 litres with seats folded. It featured numerous storage slots, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise. The TX's utility and comfort made it a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's EX-L trim and above offered a larger touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. The Touring trim added a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was functional, with quick responses and a logical layout. Features like Honda's CabinTalk and a Bose premium audio system enhanced the driving experience, making the Pilot technologically adept.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a digital rearview mirror. The Executive packages included a head-up display, surround-view camera, and semi-autonomous parking assist system. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a digital assistant with natural voice recognition. The TX provided free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system was available, enhancing the luxury experience.

The 2023 Honda Pilot received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added front and rear parking sensors and surround-view camera systems. The Pilot's safety features functioned smoothly, with no false alarms, ensuring a safe driving experience.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Drive Assist offered additional braking and steering assistance. The TX also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving on approved highways. Overall, the TX's safety systems were smooth and effective, though some features were turned off due to their intrusive nature.