2025 Acura MDX vs Honda Pilot | Making Hard Choices

[@onetoolfan]

I do not like SUVs. I am not in the market for an SUV. Yet still, I watch. Because this channel is that good.

[@gianniclaud]

SUVs are soulless vehicles.

[@s4nder86]

@@gianniclaud They're slower, heavier, noisier, less safe, less efficient, more expensive, handle worse and look awful. Of course everyone loves them.

[@JustaPersonTryinToHuman365]

Unless you are off roading or on the track, all vehicles are soulless. ​@gianniclaud

[@JHONNYR98]

Its better watching these guys ripping on a mediocre crossover (cough) VW (cough)

[@TheBaccaClench]

@@s4nder86no they’re not lol. Buy the right SUV and they’ll out handle and be significantly faster than some sports cars lol

[@GWOTKoolAid]

The goose was extra savage this week.

[@user-sy9ix6sh9f]

The goose is loose

[@AngryWalter]

He s a bad boi

[@humboldthammer]

"Ward, aren't you being a bit hard on the Beaver?"

[@MarkDonnelson]

@@user-sy9ix6sh9f how loose is your goose? My goose is totally loose!

[@tcconnor2]

2024 Acura MDX owner here. I think you are completely on point. I specifically wanted something "near" luxury with a long term ownership plan. That means I wanted springs and not an air suspension. Ride quality is quite good even on springs. With the motor the fuel economy tradeoff is worth it for the long term reliability and simplicity - valve adjustments aside. For us the Tech package seemed to hit the sweet spot on value. I agree if you are going to look at upper end trims the German luxury SUVs become a much stronger value proposition especially if you don't intend to own them long term. Having owned multiple German brands, the running and repair costs long term turned me off.

[@chiemekaa]

I completely agree with you. There is a reason why the MDX is the best seller to second best in the luxury class along with the RX. It keeps things simple, gives you most of what people want out of a luxury vehicle without the cost to own compromises of the Euro brands. Sure you can get the Q7/X7 for not much more than the MDX but you will lose some features and pay handsomely for maintenance costs. Unless you're ok going preowned, but then again who wants to be inconvenienced when something goes wrong unexpectedly.

[@lawlzownage1844]

Agree. I picked up a '24 MDX Advance and traded in a GLE AMG. Night and day. My driving life is now peaceful.

I did 180k miles in BMW 340i, 120k in accord 2.0T and now Mazda cx90 3.3t. The most expensive to own was BMW, but it was 600$ more per 30k from accord, more or less. Do not buy leased BMW, dealers and owners do not care about them. Buy it new or from BMW club members. It will last long with reduced periods of oil changes and a qualified maintenance. I love my mazda, not sure why guys are saying about harsh ride and bad compliance in corners. After driving sedans, you get that great feel of sedans in corners instead of lifeless big SUV. I would try mdx, cause mazda is not that great in noise department.

[@OBrandt-i5c]

@@lawlzownage1844 the thing that folks do when they buy a product like the GLE, is that they load it up with all kinds of electronic doo-dads (e-ABC for one), and then get upset that they have to then maintain it, at astronomical costs. Especially pertinent when it comes to people leasing these cars. And then others buying these loaded-up leased returns. As an owner of Hondas and MBs, here’s my perspective. Both my 2022 E450 All-Terrain, and my 2024 GLE450 have been absolutely trouble-free. The E450 has been with me for well over 2 years, and reliability wise, is as perfect as my 2019 Honda Fit with a Stick-shift. Not even a whisper of a problem. In case of my GLE450 (still too new overall), I absolutely wanted the Inline-6 engine. But I aggressively edited out all of those electronic add-ons, which are the future trouble spots that eventually cause repair issues. Stick to the basic car (and the base 450 comes with a LOT), skip things like the airmatic suspension (I could not do that in the E450, since the All-Terrain comes with it standard), the E-ABC (active body control), soft-closing-doors and all of those things that you do not really need to enjoy the car. This GLE450 should get me the same trouble-free 245K miles that I got in my prior ML320, until I donated it.

[@The_Stanman]

Nice, MDX is easily worth the extra $10 - 15K IMO. Big upgrades to seats, trans tuning, NVH, stereo, ride, handling...not sure what more you can ask for.

[@cinthe3]

That blue is insane in person.

[@Cinnamon535]

All Acura colors are insane in person I got a liquid carbon Integra looks insane

[@cinthe3]

That yellow they had as well. Just wow!

[@Pharmakon_nokamrahP]

Cameras never do it justice that blue. It’s deep and bright all at the same time

[@joshknutson16]

Agreed, makes me actually want a blue car

[@TypicalGuy84]

My favorite Blue of any make 💙

[@jameslee5237]

The BMW is better when it’s working. But when something breaks, it’s in another tier in cost

[@redzoom7857]

Antiquated argument given that the BMW competitor, the current generation X5 is pretty reliable and high quality.

[@lane5686]

@@redzoom7857 Yeah I agree. The B58 engine is solid and Toyota uses it in their Supra models. Toyota has also been recalling their new truck lineups for engine failure too. The Tundra also had major leakage problems so they're just not built as they used to be

[@Seyiwale6127]

Not on milage and durability. Better than BMW by far .

[@jameslee5237]

@@redzoom7857 I agree their engines are pretty solid but they still have other issues, issues which are much simpler to fix on Japanese cars. For example, when a windshield washer fluid filter gets clogged on a BMW, guess how many parts you have to pull off the car to replace the filter?

[@MixedG80]

@@lane5686 root cause for the Tundra-issue has been identified, and it had nothing to do with design or build quality. It's due to an epic failure in QA-process: the head, block or both wasn't properly cleaned after machining steps, which left metal shavings in the internals to be circulated by the oil to wreck havoc over time. Sad state of affairs, and certainly a huge letdown relative to what's usually expected of Toyota, but details matter.

[@nevv8581]

2024 Pilot Trailsport owner here. Utility wise the Pilot is amazing. Works great for cottage runs, camping and lighter towing. I traded in a midsize pickup for it. When needed I treat it like a truck, but 90% of the time as a two row with additional room for the dogs etc. I don’t miss the truck (Nissan Frontier Pro 4 x), and as a bonus the Pilot does get better fuel economy. Very happy with it.

[@domisbrowsing]

Trading in my tacoma for one, thanks for validating my decision

[@Ok_Mountain_8698]

I really think they should offer these with a manual. Would add a lot of fun factor to an otherwise boring car. I know it wouldn’t sell huge volumes but it would be a nice option to have.

[@erimei8478]

@@domisbrowsing You're trading a body on frame, proper truck that holds value for a unibody, FWD, overpriced mommy mobile. I don't get it. At least get a 4Runner or GX.

[@just4ivaylo92]

​@@erimei8478 majority of 4Runner and GX owners will never use that capability. No point.

[@ShaiyanHossain]

@@erimei8478 4runners and GX are even more expensive mommy mobiles lol.

[@brianblake5320]

Very thoughtful. Appreciate what you guys do!

[@specialk4002]

I traded my Genesis GV70 for a ‘24 MDX Advance and have not looked back. The seats are amazing and all the features are useful without being redundant. And yes, I do use my MDX as a two row SUV. I have never had the 3rd row up. Very accurate video.

[@colingoldthorpe5918]

I went with the 2025 Passport over the Acura RDX just for the VTEC V6. Only needed a 2 row SUV. Went from an F150 truck and very happy with the purchase.

[@nathanaelbennett8286]

Waiting for the 26' Passport refresh, I think it is gonna be a segment killer

[@dwb468]

One of my bucket list experiences involves running into Mark & Jack at the Olive Garden bar and talking cars, B58's, and smooth grooves.

[@humboldthammer]

My bucket list is trying to change the world one KZbin comment at a time. They say it's a sign that you're insane, f'you keep doing the same thing over again, and over again, while expecting a change, when always the results are causing you to complain (like forcing the syntax to make the rhyme). Don't worry. The NEON GAUD will be revealed at the Great Re-Set on 09/23/26. You will be Happy.

[@alphabeta8403]

3:30 Same wheelbase 6:00 DOHC in Pilot 8:20 No VTEC 10:40 Jerky Trans, brakes NOT ideal 14:00 MPG 16:50 VTEC MDX, quieter, more nimble 21:30 Pilot best in class, MDX isn’t 25:45 Bottom line

[@mstopek]

I have a 2024 Mazda CX - 90. With the updated software the CX - 90 has much better transmission performance. The brakes are also great very progressive and a nice feel to the pedal. I load it up with my three kids, my wife and all of our stuff and it never feels under breaked. The suspension is definitely firmer, but it is not harsh. The interior is much nicer than the pilot and with its rear wheel drive architecture It has a much better turning radius. Also with its mild hybrid system I’m getting 25 to 26 miles per gallon overall in mixed driving which is much better than the pilot. The in-line six engine is also a real gem. Perhaps you guys could get an updated CX 90 or CX 70 and retest it. It is much better with the updates that they made to it. I noticed a big difference than when I first purchased the vehicle.

[@LINQI9938]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqPEnWxpnNKJoa8&si=DTv1kvpw1uRn880z

[@bill7481]

This mechanic may be right on some points about the future maintenance cost and reliability of the CX-90, but I would not rely solely on what he says. I watched his review of the Mazda CX-9. He said that the whole car shakes under acceleration. I have owned that vehicle for over three years, and I have never experienced that. No other reviewer has ever said anything about that. Additionally, he speaks with an air of authority that his credentials as a mechanic simply don’t support. Get the engineers to talk about the engineering, just like this channel and others have done.

[@nathanaelbennett8286]

Mazdas engines have always felt and sounded somewhat unrefined (which is kind of the charm of them especially in the Miata and Mazda3) but I am wary of the CX90 for this reason because its a segment where this type of thing matters a lot more.

[@LINQI9938]

@@bill7481 I mean Highlander and pilot is better for long term ownership,but cx 90 is way more fun to drive

[@mstopek]

@@nathanaelbennett8286 Yes I agree with the older engines. However, the new inline 6 is silky smooth and is very refined and powerful.

[@TomD1999]

I have a 2019 Accord with the 10 speed transmission and the shifting is smooth as butter. BTW: I recently bought a 2025 Civic Sport Touring Hybrid based on your review. I haven't been disappointed.

[@f1ipm0de44]

Mark’s final thoughts were absolutely on point. I owned a 22 base Mdx with shawd, and the handling difference was the first thing I noticed when I drove the top spec pilot. Mdx definitely feels smaller to drive and they are practically the same size. Acura gets a lot of hate for selling rebadged hondas and they are making a point by exclusively designing acuras with double wishbone setup while honda is maintaining struts. Same case with TLX. Hence I traded my MDX for TLX type S. Jack fails to mention (maybe german bias) the 5-10 yrs ownership cost where I can service my Acura at a Honda dealer and will also be more reliable in the same period. Great comparison.

[@TXSTIGG]

@@f1ipm0de44 We cross shopped a lower trim MDX with a Pilot Elite and ended up going with the Pilot. I agree that the MDX drives nicer, but the Pilot is still intuitive to drive, just not as sharp. We went from an Accord to the Pilot, and the adjustment period to get used to the Pilot was surprising short. It just kinda drives like a larger Accord. I think Honda has done a great job these past few years in making cars that really shrink around you.

[@RChero1010]

Note about both cars: they are designed entirely in Ohio at the Honda American Design Center. All Acura and Honda light truck (pilot, passport, Odyssey) are American designed and manufactured. That's part of why these products are smoother and quieter over American roads than the global models.

[@user1989fopfrs7]

Yeah honda😊 and acura are american brands

[@ShaiyanHossain]

@@user1989fopfrs7 reading comprehension: 0

[@AI-qd4vb]

probably also the reason why theyre some of the least reliable in their portfolio, and theyre not really smoother or quiter, just plusher. An Accord or HRV is way more quiet and smoother than the pilot.

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

Is the ridgeline American designed?

[@sizzlacalunji]

⁠@@MeltingRubberZ28is also a North American product.

[@dannoyes4493]

Essentially the same but for the seats and the front suspension? That's enough for me. Well Done.

[@gadeane287]

Don't forget the tunes.

[@TheAntinowherelane]

Engine is different, awd system is different, NVH is different...

[@Kiloechonovember1]

No, not essentially the same. Are you identical to your siblings?

[@paul5683]

And the looks. Inside and out the Acura is a looker.

[@rashadarbab2769]

I like knowing everything about all cars. I love these regular car videos.

[@jorgeguzman8083]

The main problem with the pilot/mdx is the gas mileage sucks. Otherwise it's a really awesome vehicle. The price delta isn't as big of a deal, because most people lease Acura vehicles.

[@grahamstefaan]

Similar payment Lease vs buy is a silly argument.

[@naveenthemachine]

Mpg shouldn’t be a problem at this point

[@uzi100099]

My pilot gets 23 mpg and i traded my crv in on this i love this suv, but thinking mdx in a year and a half.

[@TypicalGuy84]

You want MPG? Get a smaller car

[@grahamstefaan]

@TypicalGuy84 or a Tesla Y or X.

[@Felixthatdawg]

That intro was fire

[@paulbugoni2846]

MDX is for date nights, Pilot for off-roading and tailgating. Great video as usual!

[@efrainvargas6562]

What off-road? You meant to say snow or sleepy conditions.

[@dcf8978]

Off roading in the grocery store parking lot, maybe

[@ShaiyanHossain]

why are you bringing a 7 passenger minivan wannabe to a date night

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

​@@ShaiyanHossainidk but I won't take advice from someone with an anime profile pic lol

[@ShaiyanHossain]

@@MeltingRubberZ28 yet you're hiding behind an f1 car. Z28 not good enough?

[@matthelms4167]

If Honda could make an actual shifter available instead of the pushbutton shifter, that would be nice. Great video!

[@paul5683]

Maybe they should bring back the sliding levers for the heat and air conditioning that I had on my 70 Pontiac too ? Do you really have that much trouble with deciding which button to push to get it in gear ?

[@LezOLee]

The 3rd row in the pilot beats out the MDX. More headroom, legroom, and most importantly… it has air vents. The MDX really dropped the ball in not having it. Makes it less family friendly.

[@blackwhirlwind1245]

MDX is basically just a 2 row vehicle with occasional usage of 3rd row seats. The Pilot is more like a utility vehicle that functions similar as a minivan, but you don’t want a minivan appearance.

[@donkennedy7682]

We bought the MDX to get away from the minivan/trucky suv now that our kids are grown. Wanted the 3rd row for the few occasions that we still do a family trip. Wife wanted a luxury vehicle that wasn't crazy expensive. Pilot would have been something we would have considered when we were hauling the kids around all the time. Surely Honda knew how these would come across. I see young families mostly in the Pilot and moms without young kids in the MDX as I notice these as I'm driving around and see them.

[@MixedG80]

As someone the MDX really appeals to (the Type-S specifically), it covers the bases. The 3rd row isn't for adults... though obviously they can fit in a pinch.... it's for my kids' little friends or when adult friends without kids visit (they get the 2nd row and kids go in the back). For 30-60 min jaunts I don't see lack of vents as an "oh the humanity" type deficiency, though I suppose it could be an issue on road trips. To your point, in the context of what they chose to address with the refresh, it's a ball drop (e.g. the ELS system by all accounts was fantastic, should have left alone what wasn't broken and put the resources towards larger oversights).

[@VG22.]

Previous generation Pilot owner: I love my pilot, It was a great handling vehicle in its class for at the time and I still enjoy driving it. It seems very connected to the road and the steering doesn't require a lot of inputs on the highway to keep it driving straight. The car handles great for its model year (2022 EX-L AWD) AND I have enough passing power when in need... I drop it down a gear or two in S mode using the paddle shifters and the car plunges when the vtec kicks in (previous gen motor) ..... Lease is coming to its end soon and I am looking at the odyssey ( same engine but with the 10 speed transmission... odyssey 10 speed is a lot smoother than the new Pilots 10 speed)..... Honda vehicles are made for people who enjoy driving and are not materialistic or flashy. All Honda interiors have a feeling of familiarity and ease of use. Buttons for everything..... I hope Honda keeps things simple in the future as well. Really looking forward to the new (BOXY) and off road worthy passport. Keep it up Honda.... thank you for making simple, quality products. All Hondas drive with the same agility. Even the odyssey is fun to drive and has an amazing ride.

[@arodri313]

I rented a 2024 Honda Pilot while family was visiting the wife and I in GA. Your comments about the brakes are spot on. There was more than once with 6 people in the vehicle that I was pushing the brake through the floor to get it to stop. You kinda get used to it and learn to brake earlier but Honda really needs to upgrade the brakes.

[@sszhao11]

All Japanese car brakes are too small imo. Germans have to drive on autobahn and brake rotors are all much bigger than Japanese. That's why I got a GTI withb13.4in front and 12.1 rotors and rear rotor is bigger than some Japanese suv front rotor

[@MIZUNOMP60]

We have a '24 Pilot Elite, I couldn't agree more about the clunky transmission off the line and through the first couple of gears. It also let's in quite a bit of wind noise in the cabin, more noticeably say above 60mph. I find the seats comfy, it's all-round pleasant to drive, decent power from the V6 but could do with more low-end torque to get up and move. Great passenger space, cargo room, the removable middle row seat is a nice touch to give the option for captain's chairs. One of my favorite features is the super convenient camera access button on the stalk column, great for quick parking views front, rear and 360.

[@Wised1000]

The clunkiness of the tranny is due to the extremely short first gear. Once you learn the gearing and ovoid jumping the accelerator, you avoid the issue.

[@sizzlacalunji]

Maybe try turning the ignition on, don’t start the vehicle and then hold the gas pedal down for 20-30s and then see if it’s smoother afterwards. Otherwise see if your dealer is willing to reset it if you don’t have the tools to do it yourself. Worth a shot. I never had that issue with mine fortunately. The brakes I wish were better.

[@monkeyzer0]

Honda’s SH-AWD is so much better than the Haldex approach used by many other FWD-based AWD vehicles. Almost feels like it’s RWD-based competitors.

[@ZDY66666]

Gorgeous shot of a monstrous pure bred Canadian Raptor in the Intro. Must have risked your necks to get those shots

[@mohitbhatia6200]

Thank You for making this video! Really helpful and informative and I’ll be watching it again in future while making the final decision. Almost felt that many people are in dilemma while choosing between these 2 vehicles. This video will really help people in making an informed decision.

[@PS_TRUDODYR]

I did this exact comparison over the last few months. Ended up getting an MDX for some of the reasons laid out here. Good video!

[@MattMcGrathOfficial]

Picked up a 2025 Elite back in July and have loved every second of owning it. Smooth ride, better design, tons of space and a naturally aspirated V6. Considered the MDX but the price jump was too much.

[@ZungHuy]

Your review is fair. We get what we pay for.

[@FlyinGato]

As a fellow Type R and 2025 Pilot owner, I can attest, the Pilot is the best all round 3 row SUV on the market today.

[@blissfuljoy6049]

Do you get any phantom braking or do you like the safety features?

[@chowchow3335]

WOW new geese intro, hopefully you pay them well!

[@GreaseMonkChronicles]

This is what I’ve been waiting for someone to do!!! Nice guys

[@paulm6481]

We bought the Pilot Touring AWD. In silver with light grey interior. It is the most plush vehicle we have had. It is very quiet inside with laminated glass. Plenty of room in all three rows. Soft ride. Engine is fast enough, not tremendously quick. I highly recommend.

[@tmfaber]

This is the video I’ve waited a year for!

[@brandon_buildsDIY]

Watching this on the toilet rn. Owner of a 251k miles 06 CRV SE that literally looks like it’s 30k miles brand new. Everything works, religiously maintained and is absolutely rust free. My point, these new luxury SUV aren’t doing enough to separate themselves from their sibling counterpart. Pretty much every SUV these days are the same. We need the weird out of the box stuff like the Honda element was.

[@777lukasz9]

06 CRV is the last generation of good quality Honda cars. After that they changed alot.

[@nathanaelbennett8286]

The problem with the modern Acura/Honda is that in some cases the Honda has better / more intuitive design than their luxury counterparts. The CRV infotainment is actually better to use, pound for pound, than f.ex the one in the RDX which is one of the worst in the segment.

[@ShaiyanHossain]

stop buying SUVs buy a van, wagon, or hatchback more unique and better suited for their job you wouldn't go offroading in an MDX or a Pilot so I don't want to hear that excuse either

[@ShaiyanHossain]

@@nathanaelbennett8286 the Japanese designes hondas have a better focus on ergonomics and space, while the American designed Acuras tend to be more focused on material quality and "driving dynamics". While the Pilot is designed in the US by Americans, it falls in with the rest of the manline Honda lineup of simple but effective interior design

[@humboldthammer]

"If you only knew how many people died while on the toilet, it would scare the crap out of you." Graffiti

[@guitarsunplugged]

We shopped the Pilot Touring or Elite compared to an MDX Tech or A-Spec. In the end, we went with the MDX Tech. It had all the whistles and bells we wanted, and drove much better than the Honda. We find it extremely comfortable, especially on long road trips. Plus, with a generous dealer discount combined with Acura’s incentives, our MDX Tech was cheaper than a Pilot Touring. A lot of that was timing, but we’re glad we went with the Acura. The dealer experience was superior, the complimentary maintenance plan included an additional year and the interest rate we’re paying is significantly lower. When comparing pricing, I’ve found there are a more variables than just the sticker price.

[@clubracer6]

22 MDX A-spec owner here and we absolutely love our rig. We do use a third row all the time as we have three kids. There are times I wish for a little more space but then I think about how what Europeans have or even we did as kids and this thing is plenty big for our family of five. The bones were awesome until about 32k miles. That said we drive pretty aggressively and to build on that point, we love the all-wheel-drive set up inthis car. It never shows its cards that it’s front wheel drive biased. It’s far more fun than the Atlas we used to have. Finally the V6 in this sounds better than my CT4 bw !

[@jimholland8112]

This was a perfect review. Actually looking at 2025 MDX now (and have owned Acura's for the past 20 years.) I need a comprehensive review of the Honda and this was spot on.

[@roguewear21]

Love the new intro!

[@labradachig1976]

Great video. The next project should be Land Cruiser vs GX.

[@benheiliger3203]

Great video, guys. Thank you. Exactly what I was looking for!

[@tuhinghosh]

The subtle way how Bridgestone Alenza was promoted in this video. I initially didn’t notice until I saw Jack’s jacket. 😬

[@jackholmes8105]

😂😂

[@jm-alan]

It's kind of a shame we never got to experience the J35x10A combo in an Accord. Don't get me wrong, I love my TLX Type S, and it's faster both on paper and in the butt dyno than my 2016 Touring Coupe, but I'll never get over that J series song.

[@ShaiyanHossain]

buy an odyssey

[@Tripp55]

I love the way both of them look! The two company's designers are so good! I looking forward to tire buying guide, too.

[@Rango415]

Coming from a 2020 Mdx, and now owning a 23 pilot. You can’t beat the practicality and space of it. Sure the Mdx handled and drives better. Also, both front power seats have 12 way position on the Mdx. But the space is night and day when having kids inside the pilot.

[@georgehugh3455]

Good discussion, gentlemen. Covered quite a bit.

[@richora2007]

Great video clip.. I'm in the market TypeS Sq5 or X40I but for me I'm looking for the one with the better lower priced to maintain. thoughts?

[@geraldeuz6763]

This video was exactly what I was searching for since I will be in the market and torn between a new Pilot or used/CPO MDX. Phenomenal review as always!

[@donkennedy7682]

Bought a used 2022 MDX AWD Technology pkg certified in July for $42000 with 31000 miles. Around $16000 off of a new one. We love it.

[@sheldonduffy9442]

Both are great vehicles. Test drove the MDX and the Pilot. Wound up going with the Mazda CX-90. Primarily because I just didn’t want a “Pilot” and the styling wasn’t as nice as the MDX or the CX-90. Superior gas mileage and the fact that an MDX with the same features as the CX-90 I purchased was over 5 grand more, and that was before the dealer mark ups.

[@paul5683]

Are the seats really not different? From everything I have heard is that Mazda seats kinda suck. Even Nissan seats are better than Mazda seats.

[@bull77ock]

Just bought a 2025 MDX, got a much better deal on the Acura than the Honda dealers were offering…

[@juliemancini6170]

Leaning on that, too. Most comfortable seat I have ever been. After 12 years, drive is still the same, engine not as loud as our Pilot TE.

[@amdreym]

How much if it's not a secret?

[@abrahamk9]

Looking forward to the tire video.

[@CACressida]

I really wish Honda would get away from that stupid shifter button. People like mechanical shifters, not a stupid button you have to look at.

[@redzoom7857]

Totally Agree.

[@paul5683]

So, what do you do when you use the remote control for your TV at home ? Do you have to look at it every time you turn up the volume, advance the channel selection or even turn on the power? These shifters are all electronic, there is no metal linkage going from the shift lever down to the transmission.

[@CACressida]

@paul5683 that's a dumb analogy. The remote control you constantly use is in your hand and you have muscle memory. Most modern cars don't have physical linkage and its all electronic just like the Prius, BMW, Stelantis products for example. The difference is its a physical shifter with a range of motion that's more satisfying to use than a stupid push button. For example. Ram has rotary knob shifter on their lesser trim but their top trims like the RHO has a T handle shifter. The new Challenger EV doesn't have a transmission but Dodge put a pistol grip shifter because its satisfying to use. GM did away with the stupid piano key shifter in the Tahoe and Suburban and put a physical column shifter back in. Its a dumb argument you're trying to make but nice try.

[@atmartens]

I love the love the look of the new Pilot but that blue on the MDX and red leather is beautiful.

[@TXSTIGG]

We were between a Pilot Elite and a lower trim MDX. The practicality upsides of the Pilot swung it for us (we have a toddler and a newborn on the way, so more storage and a more upright design makes a big difference). The Pilot is noisier on the highway, but compared to the Acura we were cross shopping it with, it has a lot more features. I think the Pilot makes more sense for families, but the MDX is a good buy if you have the money and want to buy and hold on to your vehicle for longer than 5 years.

[@alvinsimba734]

I thought you were going to say 10 years. 5 years is way too soon.

[@sheldonduffy9442]

Also thought the Pilot gave you 90% of what you could get in an MDX. However, even though the current Pilots styling and interior is a lot nicer than it was previously it cannot match the MDX ( or the CX-90 I eventually bought). However, the utility in that Pilot is second to none. Cup holders as well as nooks, crannies, and interior storage space galore.

[@TXSTIGG]

@@sheldonduffy9442 Agreed. The MDX is legitimately pretty. The Pilot? I can just barely stand it.

[@paul5683]

The Pilot is more for the growing family that will make a mess in a car. The MDX is more the grandparents that want to be able to hall the crew around once a year, the rest of the time they just want to be able to look at all that gorgeous leather.

[@gonepostal9101]

When I shopped my MDX a few years ago, in February, in Minnesota, I also test drove a Pilot. In the snowy dealers parking lot, with the ESC off, I couldn’t whip a shitty in the Pilot without getting pretty radical. In the MDX, driving sideways, and doing donuts, is but a touch of the button away. Whipping shitty’s and getting sideways is important in a Minnesota winter.

[@star9732]

I’m in Jersey and I have absolutely no idea what you’re talking about. 😂

[@paul5683]

I live in Wisconsin and I don't either. I think a shitty is like a fish tail or a snowy drift. But I will have to remember that next time I am driving in the snow. 😅

[@juliemancini6170]

Company has a test site in Baudette.

[@gonepostal9101]

@ yup, many OEM’s use that site.

[@irvdimont739]

The German cars may feel more “upscale”, but the dependability and cost of maintenance will have you regretting it if you go beyond the warranty period.

[@krane15]

Thing is, nobody buys German for their reliability. Well, maybe Porsche.

[@soroushkhodaii5548]

This is an extremely useful video. Thank you so much

[@philipjacob2314]

When they first made this modern pf7 chassis it was designed at the core to be an MDX. So being an MDX first makes the chassis a premium/luxury chassis first. They cost reduced it a bit with the pilot but at its core the Honda Pilot has a luxury suv chassis which was originally built to compete with German cars and it mostly does compete but is a notch below them, but the difference is not a wild as you think. I think these 2 drive better than most Japanese offerings for ride and handling. That is why I got the pilot since it’s like a discount MDX at its core. Glad they didn’t design this chassis. to be a pilot first then MDX.

[@khdude_]

Really enjoyed the outro music, the jazz transitions between segments are also great as always

[@gregoryjefferson6311]

Honda owner here . The wife & I have , on instinct, just hold the brake ( pressure ) at a 700-900 RPM point & it just defeats the " Auto-Stop " . We don't even bother turning it off >

[@seaa218]

I've tried this before but sometimes mine activates even then. I just let it activate when I'm at a stoplight and as soon as the light turns green, I lift the brake pedal, not fully so its still holding the brake but enough so the engine starts back up. Of course if I'm first at a stop light or on the highway, I just use the button.

[@lucianodelcorpo1295]

Excellent review.Keep it up!

[@xelawash]

Mark, did Acura solve that weird transmission issue where it stalls when turning a corner while accelerating from a stop, you discovered in an MDX you drove in the past?

[@savagegeese]

They made changes to reduce power slightly instead of causing a rev hold. Its fixed.

[@steladimi4785]

I have been a big fan of Pilot/Passport, but had to go with Acura because the passenger seat had adjustments that are curiously absent from Honda. Have an elderly parent that could not handle the rougher ride in the Honda, unfortunately. Acura ride is way better.

[@lawlzownage1844]

I ended up with an MDX Advance. Love it. However, ELS > B&O.

[@crappy60]

It would be very interesting to see how the MDX does against the Lexus TX F Sport

[@MrMlbfan6]

Terrible loll the Lexus bigger tho

[@youngbrevy]

If you can afford it, the sweet 28:38 spot is the Pilot Black Edition or the MDX Aspec. The TypeS is great, however I feel like it’s down on power for the price. Make it 400 HP and it’s King.

[@Wised1000]

In fact the gas milage doesn't suck. If you keep your speed at 65 mpg..... What has sutprised me about our Pilot is how much highway speeds affect it's thirst. Cruising at 80 shrinks its mpg from 26 to 20 mpg, a stratling difference. The brick styling really takes a toll.

[@j.redbeard99]

Thanks!

[@misha030302]

3:27 You got good taste in music. Opeth is an awesome band to see live. Their Toronto show last month was amazing.

[@DF-et4gs]

Mark, your commitment to ensuring we understand the performance of those Bridgestones was fantastic! It's going to be a long wait until summer and I can put those boots back on our Black Edition. Sport mode, I'm looking at you 😎 😉

[@ShaiyanHossain]

buy something worthy enough of having dedicated summers, not a minivan

[@DF-et4gs]

​@@ShaiyanHossainEasy does it there Shooter McGavin. In my climate you are best served to have dedicated winter tires which I have for my vehicles. I store the stock all seasons for our minivan as you call it until spring. Kind regards and call your Mom, she misses you.

[@seaa218]

Ran the stock all seasons on my '17 Elite since new and sand mode + wet asphalt on a rainy July night let me do some sick donuts and even let me hold a drift (technically powerslide) down a curve for little while. I wonder how the new Pilots would fair this winter. Obv only do this at your own risk in an empty parking lot. Steps: Ensure wet or slippery asphalt (lightly rained on is enough to do the trick). ECON off, Sport Mode on ('16s to '22s can do sport + offroad modes, idk if the new ones can do that), sand mode activated (Gives full horsepower with rear bias at the lightest pedal touch), and full steering lock to one side (Be prepared to do hand-over-hand VERY quickly)

[@AlxDv]

Oooof that goose intro.. *chef’s kiss*

[@KenClunk]

The best way to get rid of the jerkiness with the transmission in the Pilot is to put it in eco with auto stop start off. It's incredibly smoother and the way it should be in normal. Thankfully eco will stay persistent even at the next ignition start. The break tuning is way too soft, last gen was perfect. Once you know where you have to hit it it's fine, but it's not confidence inducing. Overall thrilled with the changes. Went from second, to third, to fourth gen Pilot. Have about 24k miles on it. Very happy.

[@pearly1789]

Yep after I bought mine I legitimately thought something was wrong with it and was about to take it to the dealer before realizing it was in sport mode lol. In eco mode it is incredibly smooth, 100% should be the default drive mode, it still goes when you need it to

[@cm6300]

Love to see this evaluation. This would be great to see with other vehicles that share platforms such as the RX350 and Highlander, TX350 and Grand Highlander, Escalade vs Yukon Denali vs Tahoe/Suburban High Country, Expedition vs Navigator etc to see if these vehicles warrant the additional cost over their mainstream stable mates.

[@Passon4Pastry]

you could say for a lot of things, that the flasheness is cool like in the santa fe, pallisade and what not. but that wears off after time and becomes an annoyance in some instancese. but when its so good that its boring, i dont think that is a bad thing, since that boringness translates into a really usable thing with very little gripes about anything.

[@TheWilber09]

" The brakes are undersized" to " you buy this for driving confidence " it's a honda. Can't go wrong.

[@Nicedesk]

My 2010 Pliot can fit a stack washer dryer in the back with the hatch closed. The 4wd system gives it great shoot and squirt abilities on wet roads at low city speeds. You can punch it from a stop while making a turn, it hooks up and goes.

[@InvictusRed1911]

Current RDX owner with a second kid on the way and this video is hitting the part of my brain that wondered if I should switch to a Pilot lol thanks gents - I’ll probably lease an MDX

[@bustingyewls154]

I wouldn’t even use the 3rd row but I’d still buy the Acura for the looks lol

[@juliemancini6170]

Yes, never used it but once in 12 years. I love the comfort, quiet and especially the seat.

[@bustingyewls154]

@ haha it’s nice to know I’m not the only one ! And I’m glad to hear you like it. I’m thinking of getting the MDX next year

[@Wised1000]

BTW, the Bridgestone Alenzas are at best a mediocre tire. I replaced the tires from the get go. I swapped them for Michelin Cross Climate, superior in all respects except maybe noise, plus its an excellent snow tire to boot. In regard to brakes, I have not towed with it, but with passengers, I feel it has excellent brakes, strong and perfectly modulated, refreshing given Hondas usually poor brakes. Maybe the tires are also a factor there.

[@Gadfly2025]

I’ll make this choice EZ , Honda dealers don’t like discounting but Acura dealers will 😊 if your aggressive shopper u can buy the MDX closer to cost Pilot than u think . I did for $2 k more get the equal loaded Honda . You can shortcut finding the bargaining Acura dealers go to Acura bbs heading “ how much did you pay “ and many will proudly report bargains u too can get

[@juliemancini6170]

Trying to decide between CX90 or 70 and an Acura MDX. That's how I end of up here. I have an old '12 MDX purchased that year, and had purchased 2011 Pilot TE before that, which I passed on to my son. Used to work at the R&D, so all our cars are Honda's. Both are still around. After watching this video, performance of both cars are just how you guys described it. Price point, I think it is worth it, if you plan to drive it for a long time. Thanks.

[@PNWISLNDR]

Love the channel. Don’t understand the comparison. I would think these are for two different types of buyer.

[@Nick-tt2rh]

Hey Mark, is there a reason you know of that the MDX retained VTEC? I own one and love it.

[@proudam3969]

I would just get the MDX over the Pilot. FYI nobody should be using regular fuel 87 octane because all our fuel is mixed with ethanol. I always use 91 octane or higher Chevron fuel in all my ice and hybrid vehicles. Spending extra on higher octane premium branded fuel is cheaper than a engine replacement. I live in Nevada.

[@Affalterbach1967]

I was hoping to see TypeSH #YAW torque-monster brake warmers for winter driving.

[@nweye]

I watched the kicks video and not either Corvette video

[@skattejag]

I agree with Jack. The VTEC powerplant has a little something different. Even in the video you could hear the slight hardening in tone as the MDX went into the VTEC zone. I have the similar engine in the Ridgeline and like it a lot.

[@user1989fopfrs7]

@@skattejaglol vtec is this 1994

[@oldtwinsna8347]

Seat comfort is a big deal and easily worth several thousand dollars for those who have back pain issues. Not something that can be easily changed, if at all.

[@Anandpatel-n7w]

The 2025 Pilot EXL is around $41k in my area and the MDX tech dealers right have for $58k both FWD. BIG difference in price

[@GB-up6nl]

the third row space is very different. I'm not sure why it was missed, I sat in both before buying the pilot(wanted the MDX)

[@WingedPerspective]

I paid around $48K for the Acura MDX SH-AWD (Base AWD model) and $53K OTD, which initially seemed like a good deal considering the features and the brand. However, the experience has been disappointing due to several issues. The poor fuel efficiency of 12 mpg or less (with 93 octane fuel from Costco) has been a major drawback. Additionally, the car’s key fob lacks Remote Start, which feels unreasonable for a vehicle in this price range. The AcuraLink app (with 3 year trial), intended to remotely start the car, has frequent failures, especially during cold mornings. It often requires a manual start, defeating its purpose. To make matters worse, the Blind Spot Monitoring system always disables itself in cold weather, adding to the frustration. Given these issues, especially when I have to drive my kids to school on cold days, I can’t help but feel that this purchase wasn’t worth it, despite the initial impression of getting a good deal.

[@blissfuljoy6049]

How about the automatic braking? Did you get a lot of phantom braking?

[@bocui414]

I really hope pilot can change the face in the next year, just like the new coming passport,. It is really like a pump crv 😅

[@sickjohnson]

The new Cobra Chicken intro was extra savage guys!

[@iana36s]

Hopefully you can recommend a good tire for the Si. The Goodyears all seasons are incredibly noisy

[@BsurfChillin]

I have the 2017 pilot and I agree with the issues in the gearbox, but I noticed IF you run Premium (91 in CA), it surprisingly smooths out much better. No idea why maybe they mapped to the MDX with premium and that's the disconnect when not premium. Just personal feel..

[@yiga4171]

Watched both videos, Nissan Kick is fun, but that ZR1 video is a classic.

[@markemanuele6233]

What about the cylinder deactivation? How noticeable is this and I’ve heard it affects the long term reliability of the V6?