Mike Fyxdt actually I am thinking about I should have bought the Pilot not the MDX...I’ve just recently realized that the Pilot is even bigger than the MDX...from the guy who owns a Base MDX 2019 model...($39900 out of the door)
walkman Lee - it’s difficult to get an actual sense of how big a vehicle is just from the volume specs listed by the manufacturers. Reviews like this are helpful because they are actually being driven, and people get to compare and contrast after spending some seat/back seat time. If you don’t need the extra space, I’d say the Acura would be my first choice because it’s more sporty. I wouldn’t go trading in your new car, unless you absolutely need that extra space!
@@EJCross-rm8do Yes! Which is why I'm glad they are being compared to each other. Apples-to-apples. Comparison reviews, like Mustang vs. Corvette, are entertaining - but don't help me make a consumer decision on which one to buy. Honds vs. Acura is very helpful, pointing out the slight differences that could steer a purchase either way.
@@normt5463 - Just saw this...interesting! If I were testing volume I'd make all car manufacturers do this: driver+passenger in the front seats, and then fill all remaining space with ping pong balls. More balls = more space. :)
Great comparison. I was shopping for the two of them, went to test drive the Pilot brand new, and after test drove the MDX Certified 3 yrs. used. The Pilot feel very big and boxy as to the Used MDX was very smooth and sporty. Went with the MDX. Pilot is good for Full-time Family car, but MDX is for Family who might need a 3rd seat sometime. so most of the time its just you the Driver and that is priority # 1.
We have a "12 MDX and feel that it's a nice blend of technology and practicality. No giant touchscreen blinding you at night and physical knobs to control features, safely, while driving. Plus the actual gearshift. The wider exhaust pipes are more physically attractive as well. It is so comfortable and very fun to drive. I forget I'm in an SUV.
2013 MDX owner. Have only great things to say about this vehicle of ours. I would buy another tomorrow. Cheers! Wayne BTW, the added cost is worth it. 152,000kms and only regular services done to it.
Wow! A Honda with no turbo and no cvt! Now, I know what my next Honda is going to be. I was just about to give up on Honda because of turbos and cvt's and I only buy and drive Hondas. Thanks VERY MUCH for this video and thank you Honda for still using the V6 motor with no cvt! HONDA FAN FOREVER!
It wouldnt be too long that you’d be called crazy for suggesting that Honda would ever adopt turbos or CVT (yes I’m aware of the turbo 3 and 5 cyl JDM motors and the CVT ultra economy Civic that had one in the 90’s). There is a reason it’s called Honda MOTOR Company. Almost every motor they make is a jewel.
I have a '17 MDX AWD and love it. It feels like my last Lincoln MKS sedan...almost the same size. Very stable on its feet with very little body roll. It turns on a dime and is easy to park. It rides so quiet and smooth too.
We have a 2014 MDX Tech AWD and love it. If buying a replacement vehicle today we'd buy another MDX. Stereo and touchscreen seems complicated until you live with it for a week or so. Everything can also be done with voice control too. We use it as a two row vehicle with a third row for occasional use. Tons of luggage space when used as a two row vehicle. Kids go in row 2 and the dog goes in the way-back. Everyone is happy. Flawless for 90K miles now. I also tow with it and it does great. I don't think a person can do bad buying either. Still wish I could have purchased it with a 6MT.
I have an MDX. I have a few friends that all bought the Pilot. The Pilots definitely have more room and are more usable. The MDX is so much nicer to drive, and is holding up better. The interior material quality seems to be much better. The Pilots show a lot of wear and the cars developed a lot of rattles and squeaks. The MDX looks and sounds new.
@@NinjaPickups better dynamics, better interior materials, 360 camera, SH-AWD, Acura branding. That's pretty much it. The pilot does have an extra seat and slightly bigger trunk though.
Usually happens when you pay more money...You get what you pay for is VERY true...But to most people who don't notice these things, The Pilot is PERFECT for them...TO me, I would rather have an Accord over a TLX anyday! Issue with this video is NO ONE cares about the 0-60MPH comparison between two middle of the line SUV's lol
Exactly !! The honda i think its made with cheaper parts i have a 2013 honda accord and my buddy has a acura 2013 same miles but my honda seems to have more issues and squeeks in body and suspension
Mike I understand you liking the Accord over the TLX, but I have an Aspec TLX Sh-AWD and it snows where I live... That’s where Honda cars lose me, being FWD. I hate FWD in any brand.
I have both, 2015 MDX and 2016 PILOT, I like both of them for what they are built for, the luxurious MDX is quieter and sportier ( this car make wonders in curvy and bumpy roads) , the Pilot is really a much bigger inside and its better for taking the family for long trips, even the glasses is bigger all around for better viewing. Actually I like both, and guess what, I’m waiting for the Passport, I hope Honda will bring it here in the GCC soon enough!
@@AshS85 No way! Among minivans, the Odyssey is much better in every way, when compared to the few remaining minivans still available. However, in case you haven't noticed, minivan sales have been plummeting, as hardly anyone buys them anymore, and for many good reasons. The Pilot and MDX outclass the Odyssey in every way. Besides that, the Odyssey sucks. It has way too may transmission problems, and the infotainment systems are known to go out on them. Not only is the Pilot and MDX more reliable, they are also more versatile. As an added bonus, you don't look like a dork driving one, or even worse, when you are NOT driving one, and stuck on the side of the road. For such a large vehicle and long wheelbase, and a ground clearance of 4.5 inches, you are just begging for trouble. Even just hitting some nasty potholes, it can be enough to hammer the undercarriage and cause serious damage, which only gets magnified when you also load it down with people or gear. Even worse, is that because only the front wheels are powered on such a long vehicle, it also has very poor handling, and is very prone to fishtailing in corners, especially on freeways that are wet or have recently hand snow or ice, which significantly increases its chances of very serious accidents. There just isn't a scenario where you get something with a minivan that you cannot get much better in another vehicle. With so many better options, the minivan is obsolete, and is why they are almost extinct. With what everyone should know today, the Odyssey is just a bad way to go.
We bought a 2009 Honda Pilot Touring new back in 2009. 10 years and 160000 miles later, we still love it. We did have to replace the alternator about 5 years ago, but other than that, it's been flawless.
We have an '09 Pilot as well. Been running like a champ ever since. Currently has 205K on it with only normal maintenance. Changed the timing belt and plugs around 150K, a minor AC fix around 70K. I use only Amsoil for oil, trans fluid, and coolant and change out rear end differential fluid regularly with the Honda VTM fluid. I normally do not buy 1st year generations, but with our '05 Honda CRV totalled back in '09 (and we walked away with barely a scratch), we had to get something then. I highly recommend Hondas and with proper maintenance, they should last quite a long time. We want to get something new, but I think we will hold onto our Pilot as a secondary vehicle. It is now a game for me to knock on and pass 300K miles.
The SH-AWD system is tuned more aggressively on the mdx as well, I have a family and two big dogs and the mdx does the job while still being fun to drive all things considered...if you want to have some fun every now and then. Don't get a 2020 though.. wait for the update that's coming.
@@jattposti8015 nice mine is a 2016 and I'm pretty sure I'm one of a select few who actually tow with it and have done donuts in the dirt and gone sideways in the rain and have done some light off roading. I'm itching to upgrade to something but it's actually hard to replace feature for feature (advanced package) and driving dynamics wise.
That MDX is all lipstick... Same vehicle, less usable, but more dressed up than the pilot. That center dash with dual screens is aweful and is a huge reason not to buy the Acura
@@Azviman03 yes it's more dressed up...that's the point it's nicer...but it is also higher performance..this shows the small improvement and you can search YT for videos on the AWD difference..again it's small but the MDX allows for rotation while the pilot does not.
2008 mdx tech package and it’s still holding up with no check engine lights at all.. it’s been good to me for soo many years and I’m @ 263k miles and still going
I went for a 19 MDX Adv Sport Hybrid with 321hp/289tq, 7DCT, electronic dampers, improved tq vectoring w/ regen braking compared to the mechanical sh-awd, upper 5s 0-60 times, and 24-27 mpgs or 425-450 miles per tank in city/combine/hwy driving.
15:01 they explain why which car is suitable for which type of ppl and i completely agree if you believe the slightly extra power and torque, interior quality, and drive is worth the extra $6k go for it but if you solely looking for family vehicle Honda Pilot
I would take the pilot, cheaper, more space, cheaper to maintain, basically 1 more seat, basically same AWD, engine and transmission, just a little slower very little, so if I get the MDX over the pilot is just because of the looks but in my opinion I would take the pilot
Nailed it! I own a loaded MDX & Pilot. You guys are spot on on every point. I do like the ride of my wife’s Pilot a little more then my MDX. Just like the big guy said, family = Pilot, no-family = MDX
i was just noticing how dirty it looks...seems like just one rainstorm and you need to wash it again, love the way black looks but it shows all the dirt
We considered the MDX and Pilot. My wife has always wanted an MDX but we were able to get a fully loaded Pilot for much cheaper and the Pilot’s infotainment system is superior, including that it has physical buttons for climate control, etc. These guys speak the truth, if you have a family the Pilot is the way to go. Just you and your significant other, go with the MDX.
Put the Pilot in sport mode and hit the left paddle shifter to S1 (first gear). It'll get a better launch. Upshift at about 5k rpm. It normally starts in 2nd gear.
I have owned three 3.5L V6 vehicles now (MDX, Accord V6, Odyssey), and I honestly think it is the best V6 motor ever made. My Odyssey is a 2008 and it has 186,500'ish miles and is completely original. Same starter and alternator. Nothing has been done other than maintenance. The MDX is a 2014 and it has been fantastic. 104,000'ish miles and zero issues so far. The Accord Touring V6 is a 2017 and it is sitting at around 55,000'ish miles and it is my favorite car of all time. So much power and it drives so nicely, and somehow still get 37 mpg on the highway and 26 mpg in town. Also, I truly believe that Honda is not giving you the real numbers on the power. Based on the several dyno tests I've seen on youtube that motor is putting out easily 302-305 hp and closer to 285 lbs torque, and the fact I can rip rubber from 2nd to 3rd on both my MDX and the Accord I believe it. You cannot go wrong with any vehicle that Honda makes that has the V6 in it.
I had an 06 Pilot, and now have a 2012 MDX. They are basically similar, but serve vastly different purposes. The Pilot is more practical, while the MDX is more sporty and luxury oriented. Both are phenomenal cars.
Same but then it really comes down to programming and weight and the passport really isn't that much lighter than the Pilot and the added ground clearance won't help its perfromance against the pilot I'm actually guessing here unless the aero is better that they are inch for inch with each other.
If you actually need 3 rows, you really should be buying an Odyssey. As a 5 seater, if I’m already spending upwards of 50 grand, I’d get the Acura. However, I’d wait until the new 2021+ MDX which will get the new interior from the RDX.
Personally, with how Hondas are these days, I think you're DEF better off getting the Pilot over the MDX. 100% Fully Loaded Accord 2.0T sport with a Manual over a TLX any day! Even the 9th Gen accords were more practical than the TLX (when it came out) - Why spend the extra $6K-$10K?
They are both great. Next year the 9 speed goes away in the Acura and gets the acura built 10 speed. Its awesome. Have it in my wife's 19 rdx. I do believe the 9 speed in both are zf.
I just bought a 2002 MDX ... loaded.. moon roof,. heated leather seats, heated mirrors.. 3rd row.. AWD. 160k miles .. Only $1700.. lol... Everything works. Its by far the most luxury I've ever had. hahah.. Its such a great car.
The MDX suspension, sh-awd, steering, throttle response, and Individual Driving modes are tuned more for sporty handling. You have the option of getting electronic dampers, Sport+ mode, and 321hp Sport Hybrid model with a 7DCT with the MDX.
That’s not true, I always use regular fuel. You can use Premuim fuel if you want more horsepower. But honestly there is no difference in which fuel you use unless you have a V8 or V12 engine.
Weird.. The Pilot has a compression ratio of 11.5/1 and the MDX is only 11/1. That tell's me the cams are different, but in the Pilot's favor. So weird. Must be one or two of the 20 other ways they get the power increase.
I love Acura, but $6,000 is a big difference for a car that's just a tiny bit faster, more luxurious, with less space. Unless it really does just handle a heck of a lot better...
For anyone on the fence about Acura, my 02 RL is still going strong. Just replaced her first set of brakes and did a full engine service on her. (97k miles) Smooth ride, smooth engine, 18 years ($3,000 worth of sound equipment) and still no interior rattles. Acura’s are built to a much higher standard than Honda’s are, despite being from the same company. Therefore, having owned both I would go for the Acura, every single time.
I just bought a MDX and the infotainment system seems daunting at first but it's not. You don't have to go into a screen to change the heated and ventilated seats. Hit that same virtual button on the touch screen multiple times to cycle through each level or just hit the physical Auto button. If you want to heat up your car hit the physical button Auto then use the switch next to it and raise it up to change the temperature. The seat temperature will rise with the air temperature. If you want to manually adjust your seat hit that virtual button I mentioned before to cycle to your preferred setting or cycle through to turn it off.
I picked up a 2019 pilot for the family. I wanted awd v6 with Lane Keep Assist emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. It was the best value I found at 31k. Only bad thing is base model doesn't have exterior temperature display.
I have never seen a drag race at a light between two moms, but i guess the hypothetical two mom's race between the HS BJ queen and the "i married for love" mom was bound to happen..
I’ve been driving the push button transmission for about a year and a half. It feels intuitive. I can tell the gears without looking because of their unique shapes. I appreciate not having the traditional gear shift sticking out. Great review guys!
I have the opportunity to choose between a 80k mile 2008 mdx or a 109k mile 2012 pilot and I literally don’t know what to choose. I’m not a huge fan of “luxury” I’m pretty easy to please and just want something that can hold my gear, durable, and reliable. I have a friend with an mdx and he complains about how costly the gas is and how often he has to oil it. I know people with pilots and they just put rotors and breaks often and other than a regular oil change that’s pretty much it. Lol Both are equally likely to have transmission issues if not taken care of the only difference is the trans on the mdx is more expensive to replace for some reason. Any words of wisdom from yall before I make my choice ?
You don’t buy a MDX because it’s faster than a Pilot. You buy it because it has more features. The MDX is needing an update but over all they’re both solid choices.
I’m a honda tech and I love driving it and dose not feel like a big car but more like a regular car feel to it . I do drive mine fast to break her in more and I have seen people put a AGM batter that gives it more power cause if you look at some of the 2.0T accord Compared to the other models you would see they have AGM batteries around 620 which gives them a little bit more power when taking off. The only reason why I say that is because I did the test I put a 620 AGM battery in my 14 accord and takes off it’s not fast but it has a little bit more torque takeoff to it Plus electronics in my car Lowe’s a lot faster than I would with a flood battery
I have the new Ridgeline with the same motor and the 6 speed is perfect. The base Pilot comes with the 6 speed and many prefer it. I personally hate the push button transmissions. As he says you have to look down every time..
@@MikeR55 yes, FCA, Honda, Acura and Land Rover. Last time I mentioned on TFL the ZF 9spd transmission is problematic it severely triggered someone. I rather have the 6spd.
I bought the 2017 Mdx with the tech package and the brown milano leather interior and I am loving it. In my case im young with a small family so i don’t use the third row very often so space isn’t an issue. There are days where i think what if i had gone with the pilot. Im very sure i would wonder that EVERY DAY if i did go with the pilot unless it was the black edition which would probably be hard to find a used one. So it just depends on you if you really need the space go with the pilot but if you have more freedom and want to have fun then have at it and get the MDX! Thanks for the video! It really helped with my decision.
I have to say, your team's mentality towards Honda products have changed for the positive. Not too long ago (2-3 years ago), your team had nothing good to say about Honda products. Thanks for the awesome thorough review.
i think acura mdx 2022 will release soon, does it have same old engine ?i also read it has accord engine and i dont know what else it has from other car
To me, they are too similar in performance, and the $6,000 price tag difference isn't worth the nicer interior, dual exhaust, 10 more hp at the crank, and a bit nicer sounding motor. They should have beefed the engine up more in the MDX, and had at least a 40 hp difference between the two SUVS. That would make it worth 6K more to me. Nobody is going to truly notice a tenth of a second difference 0 to 60 when driving both of them, and the 1 to 1.5 car length difference in the 1/4 mile. I would choose the Pilot in this scenario given the price difference.
As I have the Honda Version EX-L 2016, which has the regular shifter. (which I like way better). I think the Honda Is bigger with more room. Even though they have the same engines, I can care less what is faster, As i dont drive that way. Acura is just a more "Sporty looking" as compared to the Pilot. Who cares...
Disappointing on the Acura end requiring premium gas and not getting much more power out of it. I have a 2010 MDX and am kinda thinking I should have went pilot.
The Honda Pilot Black Edition with AWD is definitely the better value of the two. The Honda Pilot's 3rd Row actually accommodates 3 adults comfortably opposed to the Acura MDX's cramped 3rd Row. In terms of snow capabilities, Acura's SH-AWD is far superior than Honda's AWD. As a husband and a father, I would take the Honda Pilot, even if it is not the Black Edition.
You did not talk about the fuel type at all, am I right? The Acura is tuned to use Premium and that is mainly why it gets the performance increases over the Honda. What fuel type did you use in both? And now lets see premium put into the Honda and see what the difference is in perfromance there, if I'm right I bete that .09 seconds goes to .04.
@@spencerdeal8834 yeah, it would be a lil loft sided to compare the CRV to the RDX. Size wise, maybe. But CRV has no chance vs RDX. passport and RDX is around the same prize, same engine. Will be interested to see how they stack up
@@LinhHuynh-vh7xy The RDX has the 2.0T 4 cylinder and 10 speed auto from the Accord 2.0T. The Passport has the 3.5L V6 from the Pilot and 9 speed auto.
Excellent choice of competitors for a comparison. And fantastic production quality, it’s appreciated!
Mike Fyxdt actually I am thinking about I should have bought the Pilot not the MDX...I’ve just recently realized that the Pilot is even bigger than the MDX...from the guy who owns a Base MDX 2019 model...($39900 out of the door)
walkman Lee - it’s difficult to get an actual sense of how big a vehicle is just from the volume specs listed by the manufacturers. Reviews like this are helpful because they are actually being driven, and people get to compare and contrast after spending some seat/back seat time. If you don’t need the extra space, I’d say the Acura would be my first choice because it’s more sporty. I wouldn’t go trading in your new car, unless you absolutely need that extra space!
News flash ppl... they’re both Honda’s period! 🤦🏽♂️
@@EJCross-rm8do Yes! Which is why I'm glad they are being compared to each other. Apples-to-apples. Comparison reviews, like Mustang vs. Corvette, are entertaining - but don't help me make a consumer decision on which one to buy. Honds vs. Acura is very helpful, pointing out the slight differences that could steer a purchase either way.
@@normt5463 - Just saw this...interesting! If I were testing volume I'd make all car manufacturers do this: driver+passenger in the front seats, and then fill all remaining space with ping pong balls. More balls = more space. :)
Great comparison. I was shopping for the two of them, went to test drive the Pilot brand new, and after test drove the MDX Certified 3 yrs. used. The Pilot feel very big and boxy as to the Used MDX was very smooth and sporty. Went with the MDX. Pilot is good for Full-time Family car, but MDX is for Family who might need a 3rd seat sometime. so most of the time its just you the Driver and that is priority # 1.
We have a "12 MDX and feel that it's a nice blend of technology and practicality. No giant touchscreen blinding you at night and physical knobs to control features, safely, while driving. Plus the actual gearshift. The wider exhaust pipes are more physically attractive as well. It is so comfortable and very fun to drive. I forget I'm in an SUV.
2013 MDX owner. Have only great things to say about this vehicle of ours. I would buy another tomorrow. Cheers! Wayne BTW, the added cost is worth it. 152,000kms and only regular services done to it.
What you came for 4:42
"I weigh about 70 pounds less and so does the car." 😂 Tommy always with the low-key disses
😂😂😂 i didn't catch that
Wow! A Honda with no turbo and no cvt! Now, I know what my next Honda is going to be. I was just about to give up on Honda because of turbos and cvt's and I only buy and drive Hondas. Thanks VERY MUCH for this video and thank you Honda for still using the V6 motor with no cvt! HONDA FAN FOREVER!
It wouldnt be too long that you’d be called crazy for suggesting that Honda would ever adopt turbos or CVT (yes I’m aware of the turbo 3 and 5 cyl JDM motors and the CVT ultra economy Civic that had one in the 90’s). There is a reason it’s called Honda MOTOR Company. Almost every motor they make is a jewel.
I have a '17 MDX AWD and love it. It feels like my last Lincoln MKS sedan...almost the same size. Very stable on its feet with very little body roll. It turns on a dime and is easy to park. It rides so quiet and smooth too.
We have a 2014 MDX Tech AWD and love it. If buying a replacement vehicle today we'd buy another MDX. Stereo and touchscreen seems complicated until you live with it for a week or so. Everything can also be done with voice control too. We use it as a two row vehicle with a third row for occasional use. Tons of luggage space when used as a two row vehicle. Kids go in row 2 and the dog goes in the way-back. Everyone is happy. Flawless for 90K miles now. I also tow with it and it does great. I don't think a person can do bad buying either. Still wish I could have purchased it with a 6MT.
Pilot has a better infotainment system,larger cargo space, and is lower price. Honda 4thewin
Exactly
Isn’t Honda a part of Acura 🤨😀
Better depreciation too
In 2022 Acura MDX has better infotainment system
@@Jeez001 It does NOT have a touch screen so, NO.
I have an MDX. I have a few friends that all bought the Pilot. The Pilots definitely have more room and are more usable. The MDX is so much nicer to drive, and is holding up better. The interior material quality seems to be much better. The Pilots show a lot of wear and the cars developed a lot of rattles and squeaks. The MDX looks and sounds new.
So basically its worth to upgrade if you want the more premium brand and better driving dynamics?
@@NinjaPickups better dynamics, better interior materials, 360 camera, SH-AWD, Acura branding. That's pretty much it. The pilot does have an extra seat and slightly bigger trunk though.
Usually happens when you pay more money...You get what you pay for is VERY true...But to most people who don't notice these things, The Pilot is PERFECT for them...TO me, I would rather have an Accord over a TLX anyday! Issue with this video is NO ONE cares about the 0-60MPH comparison between two middle of the line SUV's lol
Exactly !! The honda i think its made with cheaper parts i have a 2013 honda accord and my buddy has a acura 2013 same miles but my honda seems to have more issues and squeeks in body and suspension
Mike I understand you liking the Accord over the TLX, but I have an Aspec TLX Sh-AWD and it snows where I live... That’s where Honda cars lose me, being FWD. I hate FWD in any brand.
I have both, 2015 MDX and 2016 PILOT, I like both of them for what they are built for, the luxurious MDX is quieter and sportier ( this car make wonders in curvy and bumpy roads) , the Pilot is really a much bigger inside and its better for taking the family for long trips, even the glasses is bigger all around for better viewing.
Actually I like both, and guess what, I’m waiting for the Passport, I hope Honda will bring it here in the GCC soon enough!
gnikcuF liar
The young man in me wants the MDX but the Dad in me says the pilot is what I really need.
Mdx got more creature comforts
The real dad in you should get the Odyssey. Both these SUVs are crap compared to the Odyssey if you ignore the cultural stigma around minivans.
get the MDX. At least you will enjoy it. to the kids don't care about the ride
@@AshS85 No way! Among minivans, the Odyssey is much better in every way, when compared to the few remaining minivans still available. However, in case you haven't noticed, minivan sales have been plummeting, as hardly anyone buys them anymore, and for many good reasons.
The Pilot and MDX outclass the Odyssey in every way. Besides that, the Odyssey sucks. It has way too may transmission problems, and the infotainment systems are known to go out on them. Not only is the Pilot and MDX more reliable, they are also more versatile. As an added bonus, you don't look like a dork driving one, or even worse, when you are NOT driving one, and stuck on the side of the road.
For such a large vehicle and long wheelbase, and a ground clearance of 4.5 inches, you are just begging for trouble. Even just hitting some nasty potholes, it can be enough to hammer the undercarriage and cause serious damage, which only gets magnified when you also load it down with people or gear. Even worse, is that because only the front wheels are powered on such a long vehicle, it also has very poor handling, and is very prone to fishtailing in corners, especially on freeways that are wet or have recently hand snow or ice, which significantly increases its chances of very serious accidents.
There just isn't a scenario where you get something with a minivan that you cannot get much better in another vehicle. With so many better options, the minivan is obsolete, and is why they are almost extinct. With what everyone should know today, the Odyssey is just a bad way to go.
@@AshS85 even tho the odyssey still has auto trans problems. Theyre so bad that people have gone through 3 in 100k miles
We bought a 2009 Honda Pilot Touring new back in 2009. 10 years and 160000 miles later, we still love it. We did have to replace the alternator about 5 years ago, but other than that, it's been flawless.
Hondas (until recently it seems) go forever and ever.
We have an '09 Pilot as well. Been running like a champ ever since. Currently has 205K on it with only normal maintenance. Changed the timing belt and plugs around 150K, a minor AC fix around 70K. I use only Amsoil for oil, trans fluid, and coolant and change out rear end differential fluid regularly with the Honda VTM fluid. I normally do not buy 1st year generations, but with our '05 Honda CRV totalled back in '09 (and we walked away with barely a scratch), we had to get something then. I highly recommend Hondas and with proper maintenance, they should last quite a long time. We want to get something new, but I think we will hold onto our Pilot as a secondary vehicle. It is now a game for me to knock on and pass 300K miles.
The SH-AWD system is tuned more aggressively on the mdx as well, I have a family and two big dogs and the mdx does the job while still being fun to drive all things considered...if you want to have some fun every now and then.
Don't get a 2020 though.. wait for the update that's coming.
i love my 2010 mdx Elite, nice and fun truck to drive with the adaptive magneto shocks.
@@jattposti8015 nice mine is a 2016 and I'm pretty sure I'm one of a select few who actually tow with it and have done donuts in the dirt and gone sideways in the rain and have done some light off roading.
I'm itching to upgrade to something but it's actually hard to replace feature for feature (advanced package) and driving dynamics wise.
That MDX is all lipstick... Same vehicle, less usable, but more dressed up than the pilot. That center dash with dual screens is aweful and is a huge reason not to buy the Acura
@@Azviman03 yes it's more dressed up...that's the point it's nicer...but it is also higher performance..this shows the small improvement and you can search YT for videos on the AWD difference..again it's small but the MDX allows for rotation while the pilot does not.
@@Azviman03 And what's wrong with dressing up? Also the SH-AWD are actually different. MDX overdrives the rear outer wheel more in curves.
2008 mdx tech package and it’s still holding up with no check engine lights at all.. it’s been good to me for soo many years and I’m @ 263k miles and still going
I love that MDX looks so good
I went for a 19 MDX Adv Sport Hybrid with 321hp/289tq, 7DCT, electronic dampers, improved tq vectoring w/ regen braking compared to the mechanical sh-awd, upper 5s 0-60 times, and 24-27 mpgs or 425-450 miles per tank in city/combine/hwy driving.
The Sport Hybrid MDX was special. I wished Acura offered the Sport Hybrid for the 4th Gen MDX.
@@drivescene6747yeah. Detuned NSX
15:01 they explain why which car is suitable for which type of ppl and i completely agree if you believe the slightly extra power and torque, interior quality, and drive is worth the extra $6k go for it but if you solely looking for family vehicle Honda Pilot
ChuChuTrain I want the Honda with the Quality of an MDX....that would sells!
Yup MDX shouldve had tablet before Pilot
I would take the pilot, cheaper, more space, cheaper to maintain, basically 1 more seat, basically same AWD, engine and transmission, just a little slower very little, so if I get the MDX over the pilot is just because of the looks but in my opinion I would take the pilot
Fun fact: Acura dealerships will work on a Honda at Honda price.
If I already spend that much money, I’d rather go for the Acura.
Nailed it! I own a loaded MDX & Pilot. You guys are spot on on every point. I do like the ride of my wife’s Pilot a little more then my MDX. Just like the big guy said, family = Pilot, no-family = MDX
I got my wife the Pilot that we use for family trips and I drive an RDX. We have the best of both worlds.
For me drag racing a car is not really the best way to decide whether it is better than another car. There are many more other factors involved.
paint quality is better on the Acura. Did not see any orange peel on it which was seen on the pilot
i work at an Acura dealer and trust me. they all have the same amount of orange peel
i was just noticing how dirty it looks...seems like just one rainstorm and you need to wash it again, love the way black looks but it shows all the dirt
That Acura, Modern Steel Metallic is the same Honda, Modern Steel Metallic.
You need to drive both though. It really is a night and day difference in the handling.
john cooper everything is better on the Acura including the name.
We considered the MDX and Pilot. My wife has always wanted an MDX but we were able to get a fully loaded Pilot for much cheaper and the Pilot’s infotainment system is superior, including that it has physical buttons for climate control, etc.
These guys speak the truth, if you have a family the Pilot is the way to go. Just you and your significant other, go with the MDX.
Put the Pilot in sport mode and hit the left paddle shifter to S1 (first gear). It'll get a better launch. Upshift at about 5k rpm. It normally starts in 2nd gear.
I have owned three 3.5L V6 vehicles now (MDX, Accord V6, Odyssey), and I honestly think it is the best V6 motor ever made.
My Odyssey is a 2008 and it has 186,500'ish miles and is completely original. Same starter and alternator. Nothing has been done other than maintenance.
The MDX is a 2014 and it has been fantastic. 104,000'ish miles and zero issues so far.
The Accord Touring V6 is a 2017 and it is sitting at around 55,000'ish miles and it is my favorite car of all time. So much power and it drives so nicely, and somehow still get 37 mpg on the highway and 26 mpg in town.
Also, I truly believe that Honda is not giving you the real numbers on the power. Based on the several dyno tests I've seen on youtube that motor is putting out easily 302-305 hp and closer to 285 lbs torque, and the fact I can rip rubber from 2nd to 3rd on both my MDX and the Accord I believe it.
You cannot go wrong with any vehicle that Honda makes that has the V6 in it.
I had an 06 Pilot, and now have a 2012 MDX. They are basically similar, but serve vastly different purposes. The Pilot is more practical, while the MDX is more sporty and luxury oriented. Both are phenomenal cars.
I want to see the PASSPORT race the RDX!
Same but then it really comes down to programming and weight and the passport really isn't that much lighter than the Pilot and the added ground clearance won't help its perfromance against the pilot I'm actually guessing here unless the aero is better that they are inch for inch with each other.
Actually looked it up, its faster than the MDX but again basically negligibly.
John Doe, more like CR-V race the RDX. Passeport is way bigger than RDX.
Blitz Ace that’s true.
😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣🤦🏼♂️🤦🏾♂️🤦🏼♂️🤦🏾♂️
The MDX seats are used in Honda's g4 plane. Nice plane too.
Whaaaa
@@vegasrebel781hondajet!
If you actually need 3 rows, you really should be buying an Odyssey.
As a 5 seater, if I’m already spending upwards of 50 grand, I’d get the Acura. However, I’d wait until the new 2021+ MDX which will get the new interior from the RDX.
ezekiel1hen right on
Agreed, if forced to buy now? Pilot. Rather wait till new MDX
Both use rubber timing belts. Stay far away.
Does the Odyssey have AWD? No, then you have to buy the Pilot.
or a Telluride/Pallisade
Those things are bang for buck
Personally, with how Hondas are these days, I think you're DEF better off getting the Pilot over the MDX. 100% Fully Loaded Accord 2.0T sport with a Manual over a TLX any day! Even the 9th Gen accords were more practical than the TLX (when it came out) - Why spend the extra $6K-$10K?
They are both great. Next year the 9 speed goes away in the Acura and gets the acura built 10 speed. Its awesome. Have it in my wife's 19 rdx. I do believe the 9 speed in both are zf.
@@normt5463 Do you get paid by the reply to mention Consumer Reports?
I just bought a 2002 MDX ... loaded.. moon roof,. heated leather seats, heated mirrors.. 3rd row.. AWD. 160k miles .. Only $1700.. lol... Everything works. Its by far the most luxury I've ever had. hahah.. Its such a great car.
calholli got my 2004 touring with 126k miles for $2,800. Not the car i wanted but it sure is hell of a car
I'm about to buy a 2006 mdx, good choice? How does it drive
Romestics not a bad ride at all, i get a lot of compliments on my car
Romestics beast in the rain
@@zaybarz9200 Yeah Its a beauty and 160k miles for this thing is nothing for this thing 😂
props to nathan for mentioning the big qtr glass in the honda!!!!! - wish all suvs still did that vs the itty bitty acura qtr glass.
Pretty much the same car underneath, but the J series V6 that Honda does is a masterpiece~ One of the best sounding V6 engines ever produced.
The MDX suspension, sh-awd, steering, throttle response, and Individual Driving modes are tuned more for sporty handling. You have the option of getting electronic dampers, Sport+ mode, and 321hp Sport Hybrid model with a 7DCT with the MDX.
Y’all need to do the drag race in reverse and see which car is faster
It's later in the video. Honda still lost by a car length.
6:43 Yes! A Push-Button Transmission is NOT they way to go! Some things should simply remain unchanged! #ShiftLever #VolumeKnob #TuningKnob
maybe we should eliminate cars all together and just ride around on horses pulling carriages
@@flipd2830 That sounds like a good idea - maybe we should!
I just bought a 2009 Acura MDX 100,000 miles on it. Do you think this is a good dependable long lasting car?
For sure!
Acura has 10 more horsepower because it takes premium fuel
good point. I believe the motors are both tuned the same
That’s not true, I always use regular fuel. You can use Premuim fuel if you want more horsepower. But honestly there is no difference in which fuel you use unless you have a V8 or V12 engine.
I'd bet the cams are slightly different. Not by much though.
Weird.. The Pilot has a compression ratio of 11.5/1 and the MDX is only 11/1. That tell's me the cams are different, but in the Pilot's favor. So weird. Must be one or two of the 20 other ways they get the power increase.
Dmitriy Lyubarskiy Just adding premium won’t give you more power unless the car is programmed to bump up the timing.
Honda family oretinted acura more sporty oriented
I love Acura, but $6,000 is a big difference for a car that's just a tiny bit faster, more luxurious, with less space. Unless it really does just handle a heck of a lot better...
For anyone on the fence about Acura, my 02 RL is still going strong. Just replaced her first set of brakes and did a full engine service on her. (97k miles) Smooth ride, smooth engine, 18 years ($3,000 worth of sound equipment) and still no interior rattles. Acura’s are built to a much higher standard than Honda’s are, despite being from the same company. Therefore, having owned both I would go for the Acura, every single time.
I just bought a MDX and the infotainment system seems daunting at first but it's not. You don't have to go into a screen to change the heated and ventilated seats. Hit that same virtual button on the touch screen multiple times to cycle through each level or just hit the physical Auto button. If you want to heat up your car hit the physical button Auto then use the switch next to it and raise it up to change the temperature. The seat temperature will rise with the air temperature. If you want to manually adjust your seat hit that virtual button I mentioned before to cycle to your preferred setting or cycle through to turn it off.
The older MDX required premium gas and Pilot used regular. Same for these?
Probably. Clearly, the MDX just has a hotter tune on the same exact engine that the Pilot has.
I picked up a 2019 pilot for the family. I wanted awd v6 with Lane Keep Assist emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. It was the best value I found at 31k. Only bad thing is base model doesn't have exterior temperature display.
I bought a 2019 pilot lx 2wd for 28k for another 1200 they offered me the 4wd. I live in Oklahoma and have no use for the 2wd
Wow a TFL review I liked! Well done!
12:02 you can spec a pilot for 8-seating, with passenger comfort. Especially 3 kids sit and enjoy there happily during a Meetup with other families :)
I have never seen a drag race at a light between two moms, but i guess the hypothetical two mom's race between the HS BJ queen and the "i married for love" mom was bound to happen..
Loll
Pilot is more family oriented so I would take that!
That Acura screen setup is same as in my 2013 Honda accord. In fact the navigation screen and software seem to be the same.
Yea the MDX is ready for an interior refresh, which is getting with the 2021 models.
are all the speaker, technology issues and collision mitigations issues fixed from the pilot 2020-21 models?
Can there be a comparison of Honda passport and 2020 Aura MDX??
How about 2019 Honda pilot LX FWD. They claim 0 to 60mph. Only 6.5 sec. Is it right?
Love the grunt of a Honda engine
I love my 2019 honda pilot touring awd
My rdx will smoke your pilot
You are negative 40 grand in net worth poor than the person living paycheck to paycheck.
김동준 my passport would smoke your shitty small rdx
Same conclusion here. I would much prefer the Acura, but the Honda is much more practical for my needs and usage.
I’ve been driving the push button transmission for about a year and a half. It feels intuitive. I can tell the gears without looking because of their unique shapes. I appreciate not having the traditional gear shift sticking out. Great review guys!
Exactly. It's just like using the windows switch. It can be done blindfolded.
Agreed. Reviewers don't seem to understand it. I had an Accord with the pushbuttons for over a year. It was great.
I have the opportunity to choose between a 80k mile 2008 mdx or a 109k mile 2012 pilot and I literally don’t know what to choose. I’m not a huge fan of “luxury” I’m pretty easy to please and just want something that can hold my gear, durable, and reliable. I have a friend with an mdx and he complains about how costly the gas is and how often he has to oil it. I know people with pilots and they just put rotors and breaks often and other than a regular oil change that’s pretty much it. Lol Both are equally likely to have transmission issues if not taken care of the only difference is the trans on the mdx is more expensive to replace for some reason. Any words of wisdom from yall before I make my choice ?
You don’t buy a MDX because it’s faster than a Pilot. You buy it because it has more features. The MDX is needing an update but over all they’re both solid choices.
I’m a honda tech and I love driving it and dose not feel like a big car but more like a regular car feel to it . I do drive mine fast to break her in more and I have seen people put a AGM batter that gives it more power cause if you look at some of the 2.0T accord Compared to the other models you would see they have AGM batteries around 620 which gives them a little bit more power when taking off. The only reason why I say that is because I did the test I put a 620 AGM battery in my 14 accord and takes off it’s not fast but it has a little bit more torque takeoff to it Plus electronics in my car Lowe’s a lot faster than I would with a flood battery
What about the 6spd transmission on the Pilot?
I have the new Ridgeline with the same motor and the 6 speed is perfect. The base Pilot comes with the 6 speed and many prefer it. I personally hate the push button transmissions. As he says you have to look down every time..
6 speed is more reliable over time. The 9 speed has had problems and isn't it the same trans used in Dodge Cherokees and other models/makes?
@@MikeR55 yes, FCA, Honda, Acura and Land Rover. Last time I mentioned on TFL the ZF 9spd transmission is problematic it severely triggered someone. I rather have the 6spd.
@@MikeR55 any transmission offered by Honda will be problematic.
@@wcjeep as a FCA Techniton.. That is true.. Reason I have the 6 speed Pilot version.
Thinking to get pilot but Highlander is in my mind also which is the best for family vehicle?🤔
Doesn't the Mdx has voice activation controls?
They need to throw a turbo on that MDX and Make it a real A-Spec!!!! Right now A-Spec is just a visual upgrade.
There will be a new MDX out next year
I bought the 2017 Mdx with the tech package and the brown milano leather interior and I am loving it. In my case im young with a small family so i don’t use the third row very often so space isn’t an issue. There are days where i think what if i had gone with the pilot. Im very sure i would wonder that EVERY DAY if i did go with the pilot unless it was the black edition which would probably be hard to find a used one. So it just depends on you if you really need the space go with the pilot but if you have more freedom and want to have fun then have at it and get the MDX! Thanks for the video! It really helped with my decision.
It would definitely be the Acura for me. It just looks so much better to me.
Acura MDX needs the vent in the third row rather than A SPEAKER Damn it Acura MDX design engineer team!!!
You should’ve tested the Acura MDX SportHybrid to make the comparison different I’m interested in one
I have one, it's just awesome. Fast acceleration, more intelligent 2/3/all wheel drive system.
It Always a Honda Pilot against any other 3rd row SUV in it's Class 💞
I have to say, your team's mentality towards Honda products have changed for the positive. Not too long ago (2-3 years ago), your team had nothing good to say about Honda products. Thanks for the awesome thorough review.
Forgot to mention, you guys didn't give the Acura SH-AWD vs Honda AWD a review. Maybe a snow challenge or a cornering track review.
if you really need more space, id go with an Odyssey, WAY MORE space, same engine and cylinder deactivation
2020 and Acura is still using that old ass Navi, can’t wait for their 2021 rollout, yes, the TypeS
i think acura mdx 2022 will release soon, does it have same old engine ?i also read it has accord engine and i dont know what else it has from other car
Does Honda offer a Mexican edition? Or brown edition?
The Brown edition comes with 150,000 miles on the odo.
The seat belts are built in Mexico. Your badge to show what edition you have is on the side of each belt written in 3D
Digi tal 😂 😂 😂
Thanks for the upload vids guys. I always wondered about these 2 vehicles.
I have a mix hybrid can you do a video about that
Awesome. Do rdx vs passport
@10.32 Nathan does not like to tie his shoes LOL🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣😂😂😂🧐🧐🧐
To me, they are too similar in performance, and the $6,000 price tag difference isn't worth the nicer interior, dual exhaust, 10 more hp at the crank, and a bit nicer sounding motor. They should have beefed the engine up more in the MDX, and had at least a 40 hp difference between the two SUVS. That would make it worth 6K more to me. Nobody is going to truly notice a tenth of a second difference 0 to 60 when driving both of them, and the 1 to 1.5 car length difference in the 1/4 mile. I would choose the Pilot in this scenario given the price difference.
As I have the Honda Version EX-L 2016, which has the regular shifter. (which I like way better). I think the Honda Is bigger with more room. Even though they have the same engines, I can care less what is faster, As i dont drive that way. Acura is just a more "Sporty looking" as compared to the Pilot. Who cares...
11:30 “i need a hair cut”
Me: You need a a head cut. Lol
Do both cars need the cylinder deactivation cancel mod?
Was both sports mode?
Disappointing on the Acura end requiring premium gas and not getting much more power out of it.
I have a 2010 MDX and am kinda thinking I should have went pilot.
The Honda Pilot Black Edition with AWD is definitely the better value of the two. The Honda Pilot's 3rd Row actually accommodates 3 adults comfortably opposed to the Acura MDX's cramped 3rd Row. In terms of snow capabilities, Acura's SH-AWD is far superior than Honda's AWD. As a husband and a father, I would take the Honda Pilot, even if it is not the Black Edition.
Both great cars. However, would buy a Pilot fully loaded and call it a day.
Bottom line the mdx is the more sporty option and the pilot is the family option
But at the end of the day still the same car made by the same company
@@godofdestructiondiecast6756 Well, the MDX is wider and longer, less interior room
12:59 look at the number on the spare tire 😂😂
Why?
Approximately 60 PSI recommended inflation pressure
@@AWDfreak the number before that
@@attocoulomb lol it's stupid, you might not get it
Carter Davis you seem high
Nice comparison! Can you compare the MDX with the hybrid version?
Acura all day! Awesome quality. Checkout the SH-AWD in action MDX Track
Good comparison I anticipated. Thanks
How do you turn the day light running blink blink on the honda pilot? thanks
You did not talk about the fuel type at all, am I right? The Acura is tuned to use Premium and that is mainly why it gets the performance increases over the Honda. What fuel type did you use in both? And now lets see premium put into the Honda and see what the difference is in perfromance there, if I'm right I bete that .09 seconds goes to .04.
Does the Acura still require premium fuel?
No, 87 octane minimal and 91 octane recommended
How do they make the leds blink?
Question is, do you want to spend money on Premium gas or Regular gas?
The MDX can take regular
The MDX is better! The winner the Pilot! Sounds plausible to me. 🤯
You guys HAVE TO do an RDX vs Passport comparison!!! On road and off road
RDX = CRV
logix7 nope not anymore. The new RDX has its own individual platform compared to the CRV.
@@spencerdeal8834 yeah, it would be a lil loft sided to compare the CRV to the RDX. Size wise, maybe. But CRV has no chance vs RDX. passport and RDX is around the same prize, same engine. Will be interested to see how they stack up
@@LinhHuynh-vh7xy The RDX has the 2.0T 4 cylinder and 10 speed auto from the Accord 2.0T. The Passport has the 3.5L V6 from the Pilot and 9 speed auto.
@@05Forenza Omg! They do! They redesigned it. Thank you, thank you