2024 Lexus TX vs 2025 Honda Pilot

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. Its upscale appearance was enhanced by the 22-inch silver-finished wheels included in the TX 350 Executive packages, which significantly improved its presence. The styling of the TX was more subdued compared to other Lexus models, offering a conservative design that might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's bolder aesthetics. The TX was available in TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486, although the TX 550h+ was not yet on sale. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, with options for Ultra Luxury or Executive packages in Canada. Despite some interior darkness due to the Peppercorn colour scheme, the TX 350's cabin was luxurious enough to bear the Lexus badge.

In contrast, the 2025 Honda Pilot was offered in Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, and Black Edition trims in Canada, with prices from $55,486 to $67,236. The Black Edition, evaluated in the U.S., featured black wheels, blacked-out trim, and black leather seats with red accents. The Pilot's rugged design, introduced in 2023, was more suited to suburban environments, with the TrailSport trim offering enhanced off-road capabilities. The interior, while thoughtfully designed with quality materials, lacked a "wow factor" due to its smaller digital displays. Despite this, the Pilot provided practical storage solutions and a comfortable cabin, although the digital driver display and infotainment system appeared dated compared to competitors.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Lexus claimed it could accelerate to 100 km/h in about eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to its torque delivery. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, but during testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm yet comfortable suspension and accurate steering. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate for smooth stops.

The 2025 Honda Pilot featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, generating 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It could tow up to 2,268 kilograms and offered various driving modes, including Normal, Econ, Snow, Tow, Sport, Trail, and Sand. The Pilot's fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 14.1 L/100 km during testing, compared to the official rating of 11.2 L/100 km. The Pilot's suspension provided a soft ride, but an adaptive-damping system would have improved handling on mountain roads. Despite this, the Pilot's steering and braking systems contributed to satisfying driving dynamics.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a comfortable interior with premium materials, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row seats were less welcoming due to a flat lower cushion, but the third-row seat was habitable for adults, unlike previous models. The TX provided 572 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third row folded and 2,746 litres with both rear rows down. However, the second-row legroom was limited, affecting comfort when accommodating third-row passengers.

The 2025 Honda Pilot excelled in form and function, with three rows of comfortable seats and thoughtful storage solutions. The Black Edition's front passenger seat lacked adjustability, which was a drawback for long trips. The second-row seats were roomy, with a removable centre section for easy access to the third row. The third row was suitable for adults if the second row was adjusted. The Pilot offered 635 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,702 litres with the third row folded and 3,219 litres with both rear rows down. The Pilot's interior featured a triple-zone climate control system and a panoramic sunroof on higher trims.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, a digital rearview mirror, and a 14-inch touchscreen display with the Lexus Interface infotainment system. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a Drive Connect subscription offering cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. However, the head-up display's unmarked steering wheel controls were distracting, and the display was often invisible with polarized sunglasses. The TX also offered a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system for audiophiles.

The 2025 Honda Pilot's technology appeared dated, with a 10.2-inch digital gauge panel and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The wireless CarPlay function was problematic, and the voice recognition system was inconsistent. The Pilot also featured a small head-up display and the CabinTalk feature for communication with rear passengers.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was also included, though it was not always transparent in operation. The TX offered additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist, though it lacked a higher-speed hands-free driving system.

The 2025 Honda Pilot came with Honda Sensing safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the adaptive cruise control had issues with maintaining speed and responding to traffic changes. The lane-centring assist system affected steering feel, and the road sign recognition system was inaccurate. Despite these issues, the Pilot earned high safety ratings, with the IIHS naming it a Top Safety Pick+ and the NHTSA giving it a five-star overall rating.