Honda Pilot vs. Acura MDX
A 3-row SUV is the smart choice for a family vehicle, providing a stylish alternative to the family-friendly minivan. If you've been on the hunt for the perfect model, there are many options worth considering. However, two of the most impressive are the 2023 Honda Pilot and the 2023 Acura MDX.
To help you decide which one will better suit your driving needs in Bloomington, Columbus, or Ellettsville, the team at Andy Mohr Honda is here to help. With this Honda Pilot vs. Acura MDX comparison, you'll learn what these two SUVs have to offer, allowing you to make an educated decision for yourself.
SEATING CAPACITY
PASSENGER VOLUME
CARGO CAPACITY
Two factors to consider when shopping for a family SUV are performance and fuel economy. You’ll need a vehicle that will seamlessly keep up with your busy life. Luckily, both the Honda Pilot and the Acura MDX deliver.
Each one is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine that achieves a similar output. With either model, you'll have over 280 horsepower and more than 260 lb-ft of torque. Each engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
Both the Pilot and the MDX also come with available all-wheel drive, ideal for enhanced traction when facing more challenging road conditions.
When it comes to fuel economy, they’re similar, with one notable difference. Both models have 18.5-gallon fuel tanks. That said, if you're looking to stay on the road a bit longer, the Honda Pilot may be the way to go. Although the Acura MDX is efficient, the Pilot boasts slightly better ratings when it comes to highway driving.
- Honda Pilot: EPA-estimated 19 city/27 highway MPG on all 2WD trims*
- Acura MDX: EPA-estimated 19 city/26 highway MPG on all 2WD trims
When in the market for a 3-row SUV, you're looking for ample space for you and yours. Whether you're piling in passengers or loading up the cargo area, both the Pilot and the MDX offer a roomy interior.
If you're looking for the most spacious SUV, though, the Honda Pilot comes out on top. You can accommodate eight riders in the Honda Pilot, while the MDX can only seat seven. Across its three rows of seats, riders in the Pilot can stretch out with 158.4 cubic feet of passenger volume. The Acura MDX, on the other hand, falls short with 139.1 cubic feet.
Cargo room is also more plentiful in the Honda Pilot. When the seats are upright, you'll have 21.8 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the third row to stow suitcases, sports equipment, or the weekly groceries.
The Acura SUV offers just 18.1 cubic feet. When you fold down the second- and third-row seats, there’s an even greater difference.
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Honda Pilot
|
Acura MDX
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Cargo Volume Behind Second Row | 59.5 cubic feet | 48.4 cubic feet |
| Cargo Volume Behind First Row | 111.8 cubic feet | 95 cubic feet |
Today’s drivers rely on technology to remain informed, connected, and engaged as well as stay safe while on the road. As such, 2023 models like the Honda Pilot and the Acura MDX offer a variety of standard and available tech features.
Both SUVs come equipped with a multimedia touchscreen that serves as your hub for information, entertainment, and more. Among their similar standard offerings are:
- Apple CarPlay® integration
- Android Auto™ integration
- Bluetooth®
However, one unique feature of the Honda Pilot is Multi-Zone Audio. This feature makes it convenient for you to keep enjoying your audible entertainment without disturbing your kids in the back. So, whether they’re snoozing after a long playdate or streaming their own entertainment, this feature will quiet the speakers in their seating zones without affecting yours.
Of course, the most important technologies are those that increase your peace of mind by helping protect you and your passengers. As such, the Pilot and the MDX each equip their own respective suites of safety and driver-assistive features: Honda Sensing® and AcuraWatch™.
These bundles have similar, brand-specific versions of the following features, among many others:
- Forward Collision Warning/Collision Mitigation Braking System™
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
- Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Monitor
- Lane Keeping Assist System/Lane Departure Warning
- Traffic Sign Recognition
While the Honda Pilot and the Acura MDX are evenly matched in their safety technologies, one feature only found in the Pilot is the Driver Attention Monitor. This standard system detects signs of drowsy or distracted driving and alerts you that it may be time to take a break. A similar feature is not available in the MDX.
The Acura MDX is a stylish model that does well on the streets of Bloomington, Columbus, and Ellettsville. However, if you're looking for an efficient 3-row SUV with plenty of passenger and cargo space as well as additional standard technologies, we think you'll love driving the Honda Pilot.
To see if this family SUV is right for you, schedule a test drive at Andy Mohr Honda to experience it firsthand. Contact us to test drive the Honda Pilot today!
All of the tools you need to move forward with experiencing a new 2023 Pilot for yourself are conveniently available right here online.
Explore our extensive new inventory, receive an estimate on your trade-in, apply for credit or contact us to schedule your in-person test drive using the quick links here.
Shop Honda Pilot Value Your Trade Apply for Financing Schedule a Test Drive* 19 city/27 highway/22 combined mpg rating for 2WD trims. 19 city/25 highway/21 combined mpg rating for non-TrailSport AWD trims. 18 city/23 highway/20 combined mpg rating for TrailSport. Based on 2023 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.