Acura MDX Vs. Honda Pilot Comparison
Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot at a Glance
- Both SUVs are equipped with 3.5-liter V-6 engines, but the 2025 Acura MDX takes the crown with top horsepower, torque, and 0-60 mph specs.
- If you're looking to go off-roading, the new Acura SUV gives you up to 9.4 inches of ride height; the Honda Pilot only sits up to 8.3 inches off the ground.
- The 2025 Acura MDX doesn't withhold standard features: You'll find a power liftgate and a panoramic moonroof on every trim, while these options are only available on the Pilot SUV.
- Enjoy dual 12.3-inch touch screens in the Acura MDX cabin, or choose a Honda trim for smaller standard 7-inch displays.
- Stay secure in an Acura MDX trim with a standard Blind Spot Information System and Advanced Pedestrian Detection; the Honda Pilot doesn't offer the Blind Spot Information System as standard or the Advanced Pedestrian Detection system at all.
- If you often take long road trips, choose the new Acura MDX for its extra front-seat legroom and hip room.
As three-row SUV cousins, any Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot comparison seems like a close match. Both SUVs share wheelbase, transmission, and engine specs, and they were each recently redesigned. So, what sets them apart?
The 2025 Acura MDX offers a refined design, incredible power, elevated technology, modern cabin luxuries, and increased safety that the Honda Pilot lineup just can't match. This guide, compiled by Muller Acura of Merrillville for the Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot, reviews every aspect of each lineup. From specs to features and even design, read on to learn more.
2025 Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot Specs: Engines & Performance
| 2025 Acura MDX | 2025 Honda Pilot | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine |
|
3.5L V-6 |
| Horsepower |
|
285 |
| Torque |
|
262 lb-ft |
| Transmission |
|
10-speed auto |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD | FWD or AWD |
| Max. Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs1 | 5,000 lbs2 |
| Max. EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) w/ AWD | 19 / 25 / 21 MPG3 | 19 / 25 / 21 MPG4 |
| 0-60 Speed |
|
6.9 seconds6 |
At first glance, we see some performance similarities between the Honda Pilot and Acura MDX. Each SUV comes standard with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission, but this is about where the similarities in specs end.
The Acura MDX provides a much more exhilarating driving experience than the Honda Pilot. How so? Firstly, tests by industry experts and enthusiasts give great insight into the performance side of the comparison between the Acura MDX and Honda Pilot. For example, Car and Driver found that the standard 290-horsepower Acura MDX engine propels the SUV from zero to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds.5 Meanwhile, a MotorTrend test for the Honda Pilot clocked its 0-60 mph time at 6.9 seconds with its standard 285-horsepower engine.6
The Acura MDX can go even faster, though: Its Type S trim has a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 with 355 horsepower plus a 0-60 mph time of 5.5 seconds,5 according to Car and Driver. The Acura MDX is the clear choice for fun, and while the Honda Pilot tries to position itself as the more off-road-oriented SUV, you'll still find a higher ride height in the Acura MDX, which we'll discuss later.
Both SUVs can tow 3,500 pounds1, 2 with FWD and up to 5,000 pounds1, 2 with AWD. Speaking of all-wheel drive, you'll also find the same maximum EPA-estimated MPG value when these sport-utes are equipped with the traction-oriented drivetrain: up to 19/25/21 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).3, 4
It's also worth noting that the available AWD in a 2025 Acura MDX is Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which intelligently uses vehicle data (including G-force, steering angle, wheel speed, and more) to balance the power delivery for thrilling on-road performance. SH-AWD is meant for on-road fun but can be tailored to trickier terrain with options like Snow Mode or the customizable Individual Mode. A custom drive mode option is not available in the Honda Pilot.
Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot performance is a straightforward battle: The Acura MDX offers more fun on your daily drive and doesn't make you compromise.
Acura MDX Compared to Honda Pilot: Interior Features
| 2025 Acura MDX | 2025 Honda Pilot | |
|---|---|---|
| Power Liftgate | Standard | Available |
| Panoramic Moonroof | Standard | Available |
| Standard Front-Seat Adjustability | 12-way power-adjustable w/ power lumbar | 10-way power-adjustable |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Standard | Standard |
| Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) | Standard | Standard |
| Standard Technology Features |
|
|
It's not all about fun – well, at least for some drivers, it's not – so a thorough side-by-side Honda Pilot vs. Acura MDX comparison needs to cover what to expect in terms of the luxury appointments and creature comforts that will accompany the performance thrills. The answer is a long list of standard excellence for the MDX that outshines the Pilot.
As you can see from the chart above, the Acura MDX offers larger dual 12.3-inch screens than the Honda Pilot, which comes standard with dual 7-inch displays. Even if you upgrade the Honda Pilot, you'll only get up to a 10.2-inch instrument cluster and a 9-inch touchscreen.
It's a similar story when you look at these SUVs' audio systems. The MDX comes standard with an 11-speaker premium sound system and tops out with a concert-like, 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen® Ultra Sound System. The Pilot comes standard with seven speakers and tops out at 12 with its available system. You even have to choose a higher Pilot trim to get wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, something that comes standard with the MDX.
The difference between Acura MDX and Honda Pilot seats is another clear way to see the advantages of an Acura MDX.
The Honda Pilot has a standard 10-way power driver's seat and cloth upholstery, while the Acura MDX has standard 12-way power front sports seats with power lumbar support and leatherette upholstery. With available perforated Milano premium leather upholstery featuring contrast stitching and piping in the MDX and top upholstery options like available perforated leather in the Pilot, it's easy to see that the Acura MDX is the more luxurious SUV.
The lead continues for the Acura automobile when you compare the Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot safety features. For instance, both SUVs received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award for 20257, 8 and come with standard assists like Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, a Lane Keeping Assist System, Lane Departure Warning, and Forward Collision Warning. However, the MDX offers more standard driver-assistance technologies, such as Advanced Pedestrian Detection.
2025 Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot Size & Cargo
| 2025 Acura MDX | 2025 Honda Pilot | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 198.4 in | 199.9-200.2 in |
| Width | 78.7 in | 78.5 in |
| Height | 67.9 in | 70.9-72 in |
| Max. Ride Height | 9.4 in | 8.3 in |
| Max. Seating Capacity | 7 | 8 |
| Max. Passenger Volume | 139.1 cu ft | 158.4 cu ft |
| Max. Cargo Volume | 95.0 cu ft | 111.8 cu ft |
Both the Acura MDX and Honda Pilot were born on the same platform, which is easy to see thanks to a 113.8-inch wheelbase appearing on both sides of the Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot comparison. This is the end of their shared dimensions, though.
The Honda Pilot has a larger body than the Acura MDX, making it less maneuverable than its elegant competitor. While both models are three-row SUVs, the Acura MDX takes a sportier, more embracing approach to interior luxury. This, and its smaller body, gives it a lower seating capacity of up to seven, as the Honda Pilot uses a more open style for its interior and can seat up to eight occupants.
The wonderful atmosphere created by the Acura MDX SUV's design philosophy must be felt to be truly appreciated. However, the Honda Pilot does use its interior design approach to store more cargo. It can hold up to 111.8 cubic feet of cargo, while the Acura MDX can store up to 90.5 cubic feet. Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot passenger volume is also won by the Pilot, but the Acura MDX does offer more front-seat legroom and hip room.
It's important to note that the Acura MDX is not designed to feel like a practicality-first machine that values on-paper specs above real-world interaction – it's designed to surround you with premium materials and intricate designs so that you can feel like you're in command of something truly special. The Honda Pilot certainly has a well-designed interior, but it can't spoil you with every touch of and glance at your surroundings.
Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot Styling
While this is a more subjective area of comparison, the looks of your next SUV may matter a lot to you. Its interior is where you'll spend your time on the road, and when the vehicle is parked, its exterior will be the familiar face that greets you. Let's compare Honda Pilot to Acura MDX design and aesthetic.
Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot exterior styling has a clear winner in our eyes. The Acura MDX is sleek, sporty, and styled with smooth, flowing lines that are differentiated by razor-sharp accents. The Honda Pilot looks totally different: It has a more angular, rugged design. The visual intrigue of the Acura MDX SUV's intricate details cannot be found on the Honda Pilot.
As we mentioned when comparing interiors, the Acura MDX interior design is more of a sophisticated embrace that creates a first-class atmosphere. It also delivers a more driver-focused space up front. The Honda Pilot is a more utility-focused vehicle with less intricate interior styling. Some details, like the shape surrounding the gauge cluster, are nearly identical, but otherwise, the 2025 Acura MDX for sale prioritizes luxury through its unique, well-tailored interior design.
See how the Acura MDX stacks up to another competitor with our guide comparing the Acura MDX vs. Lexus TX.
Discover the 2025 Acura MDX Today
From thrilling performance to standard luxury features, it's evident that the Acura MDX offers more than the Honda Pilot. Whether you want to learn more about its technology or its safety, our team is here to help you discover your next 2025 Acura MDX. Visit Muller Acura of Merrillville today to take a new Acura MDX on a test drive and explore our new Acura inventory.
Alternatively, if you want to further your research, check out our Acura MDX vs. Toyota Highlander comparison guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is less expensive to maintain: the Acura MDX or the Honda Pilot?
The Honda Pilot vs. Acura MDX reliability and repair price estimates highlight an average annual repair cost of $571 for the Acura MDX9 and $542 for the Honda Pilot,10 according to RepairPal. However, the Honda Pilot has a reliability rating of 3.5 out of five stars,10 whereas the Acura MDX earns four out of five stars, making it the more dependable choice.9
Is the Honda Pilot bigger than an Acura MDX?
Yes, the Honda Pilot is bigger than the Acura MDX, measuring up to 200.2 inches long, 78.5 inches wide, and 72 inches tall. The Pilot is bigger across every exterior dimension than the MDX despite sharing a 113.8-inch wheelbase, making it more difficult to navigate through crowded areas. While the Honda Pilot offers an extra seat inside, the Acura MDX provides luxurious appointments for seven.
Which is faster: the Acura MDX or the Honda Pilot?
The Acura MDX is significantly faster than the Honda Pilot. While their standard engines are close, with the MDX going from zero to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds5 and the Honda Pilot making the same sprint in 6.9 seconds,6 the available twin-turbo engine for the MDX blows past the Pilot. It can hit 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds from a standstill.5
Should I buy an Acura MDX or a Honda Pilot?
If you want more power, thrills, luxury features, safety assistance, and style, the Acura MDX is the better buy. This luxury SUV shares its basis with the Honda Pilot but enhances it all with opulent appointments and increased performance specs. With almost everything on a modern driver's wish list coming standard, the 2025 Acura MDX is an even more satisfying choice.
1Towing requires the addition of the Acura accessory trailer hitch and hitch ball. Please see your Acura dealer for details. Added cargo weight in the vehicle may reduce max towing capacity, see Owners Guide for details.
2Towing requires accessory towing equipment. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
3Based on 2025 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.
4Based on 2025 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, and other factors.
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.caranddriver.com/acura/mdx
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.motortrend.com/cars/honda/pilot/
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/Acura/mdx-4-door-suv/2025
8Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/Honda/pilot-4-door-suv/2025
9Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/reliability/acura/mdx
10Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/reliability/honda/pilot