Honda Pilot vs Lexus TX

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a range of packages tailored to different powertrains, with the TX 350 featuring the Luxury package as standard and options for Ultra Luxury, Executive, and F Sport 3 packages. The 500h hybrid started with the F Sport Performance 2 package, with an option for the F Sport 3 package. Higher packages included towing capabilities, and while the base models had 20-inch wheels, most came with 22-inch wheels. The exterior maintained a large grille reminiscent of the older spindle grille design, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and a rear LED light strip. The interior offered three colour options, ambient lighting, and suede trim, though the material quality fell short of luxury standards. Redesigned door handles were a notable change, though they seemed unnecessary.

The 2026 Honda Pilot underwent a makeover, adopting a more truck-like appearance with a larger, blockier grille and grey plastic scuff plates. The rugged design was complemented by standard roof rails and a rear bumper with a similar scuff plate. The interior saw upgrades with larger infotainment and digital instrument panels, and top trims featured diamond quilting and contrast stitching. The Pilot maintained its practicality and tasteful design, with material quality and construction meeting or exceeding class expectations. The changes for 2026 didn't drastically alter the Pilot's core appeal as a practical midsize SUV.

The 2026 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a 275-horsepower 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the TX 500h hybrid increased output to 366 horsepower. The gas model featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the hybrid came with a six-speed automatic, offering an alternative to the typical CVT in electrified powertrains. The TX 350 had electronically controlled full-time AWD, while the TX 500h used Lexus’s Direct4 AWD system, distributing torque via electric motors. Drivers could choose between Normal, Eco, or Sport drive modes, with Sport mode enhancing throttle sensitivity. The 500h also offered adaptive suspension and rear steering for improved handling.

The 2026 Honda Pilot retained its 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, AWD was standard. The Pilot's acceleration was adequate, with responsive performance during highway merging and passing. The V6 engine provided a confident sound, and the brake pedal effort was soft, suitable for a family SUV. Some subtle downshifts were noted, but they were infrequent. Honda revised the steering for improved feedback and stability, addressing previous vagueness on the highway. The Pilot maintained its confident handling, though it wasn't designed to be sporty.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered three-zone automatic climate control, heated and cooled front seats, heated second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel as standard in Canada. The TX 500h included ventilated second-row seats. The second row featured captain’s chairs with a removable centre console, while some packages offered a bench seat. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and ample headroom, accommodating full-sized adults comfortably. Access to the third row was facilitated by a one-touch button, though folding the second row flat was more complex. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support, and the heating function was excellent. The TX boasted impressive cargo space, with 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third row flat, and 2,747 litres with all rear seats folded. Properly equipped, it could tow up to 2,268 kilograms.

The 2026 Honda Pilot's cabin remained largely unchanged, maintaining its reputation for interior space and versatility. A notable feature was the removable second-row centre seat, which could be stowed under the cargo floor. The centre seat was less roomy, suitable for smaller passengers, while the outboard seats offered ample legroom and comfort. Access to the third row was easy, with a button folding and sliding the second-row seat forward. The third row provided adequate space for smaller adults, though thigh support was limited. Cargo capacity was generous, with 635 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,702 litres with the third row folded, and up to 3,219 litres with both rows folded. The front seats offered ample storage, with a long tray, large cupholders, and a spacious centre armrest bin.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch colour touchscreen, though some features lacked polish, such as the inability to manually input satellite radio stations. Steering wheel buttons controlled adaptive cruise control and volume, but their multi-functionality and lack of labels made them confusing. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues with the native audio system were noted. A subscription was required for in-dash navigation and other features. The back-up camera was clear, with an available bird’s-eye view, and the Advanced Park system could handle parking duties. The TX offered seven USB ports and wireless charging, with an available 120-volt outlet in the second row.

The 2026 Honda Pilot upgraded to a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 10.2-inch digital instrument panel. Physical shortcut buttons were replaced with customizable on-screen shortcuts. The system was quick and easy to use, with legible graphics and large tiles. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, though a wireless phone charger was only available on the EX-L trim. The charging pad was temperamental, requiring precise positioning. The Pilot retained unique features like multiple camera angles and the CabinTalk intercom system.

The 2026 Lexus TX came standard with Safety System+ 3.0, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane tracing assist, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, and Proactive Driving Assist. The adaptive cruise control worked well once set up, though it was slow to resume speed in traffic. The TX received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA and mixed scores from the IIHS.

The 2026 Honda Pilot's crash test scores were unavailable, but it was expected to perform similarly to the 2025 model, which received high scores. The Pilot included the Honda Sensing suite, with features like forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. The safety features generally worked well, though the forward collision warning was sensitive.