Choosing the right 3-row SUV for your family can be a tough decision. The 2023 Honda Pilot and the 2024 Mazda CX-90 both bring their unique strengths to the table. If you’re looking for something reliable and spacious, the Honda Pilot is the standout. It’s a better fit for families, offering a significant amount of room for passengers and cargo.
On the flip side, the Mazda CX-90 has an edge in performance and style. It’s the choice for those who want a touch of elegance and fun in their driving experience. With more premium features and hybrid powertrains, the CX-90 captures the heart of many drivers.
So, what’s it going to be? Ready to pack up the kids and gear in a super-practical SUV or cruising around in a sleek, powerful ride? Stay with us as we dive into the nitty-gritty details.
The 2023 Honda Pilot vs. 2024 Mazda CX-90: Which 3-Row SUV Is Right for You?
Choosing the perfect 3-row SUV can feel like a tough choice. Let’s dive into the Honda Pilot and the Mazda CX-90 to see which one might be right for you.
Performance 🏁
The 2023 Honda Pilot reaches 60 mph in 6.9 seconds. It’s not the fastest, but it gets the job done. The Mazda CX-90, on the other hand, offers a smoother ride with similar acceleration.
Fuel Economy ⛽
Fuel economy is crucial. The Honda Pilot requires more effort to match the EPA-estimated mileage. Mazda CX-90 seems a bit more efficient on fuel. Saving on gas is always a plus!
Pricing 💰
| 2024 Honda Pilot | 2024 Mazda CX-90 |
| Base MSRP: $37,090 | Price varies |
| Top Trim (Elite): $52,480 |
Prices for the Honda Pilot range from $37,090 to $52,480. The Mazda CX-90 pricing might be more flexible, but Honda’s steep prices could be a bit much.
Interior and Comfort 🚗
We want an SUV that feels like home. Both SUVs offer comfortable seating and a spacious interior. Families will love the ample legroom and cargo space in both vehicles.
Technology and Safety 🚨
Safety first! Both SUVs are loaded with safety features and modern technology. From advanced driver aids to top-tier infotainment systems, you’ll be in good hands.
Do you value a familiar ride or a fresh experience? Choosing between the Honda Pilot and Mazda CX-90 will depend on your priorities. 🚘
Performance Comparison
Let’s break down the performance aspects of the 2023 Honda Pilot and the 2024 Mazda CX-90. We’ll cover engine specifications, fuel efficiency, and towing capacity to give you a clearer idea of what each SUV brings to the table. We’ve got data, and we aren’t afraid to use it.
Engine Specifications
The 2023 Honda Pilot comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that pumps out 285 horsepower. It’s smooth and reliable but doesn’t break any speed records. On the other side, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 boasts a new 3.3-liter inline-six turbo engine that delivers up to 340 horsepower.
| Aspect | Honda Pilot | Mazda CX-90 |
| Horsepower | 285 HP | 340 HP |
| Engine Type | V6 | Inline-six Turbo |
When it comes to sheer power and driving dynamics, the Mazda CX-90 has the edge. It feels quicker off the line, and its modern engine tech really shows.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is crucial, especially for families on long trips. The 2023 Honda Pilot gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. It’s efficient, but nothing to write home about.
The 2024 Mazda CX-90, though, manages to squeeze out a bit more efficiency thanks to its turbo setup. You can expect around 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Both cars are respectable, but the Mazda has a slight edge in real-world conditions.
Towing Capacity
Towing capacity can make or break a purchase for those of us looking to haul trailers or boats. The 2023 Honda Pilot offers a solid 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. It’s enough for most family needs.
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 steps up with an impressive 5,500 pounds.
| Aspect | Honda Pilot | Mazda CX-90 |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | 5,500 lbs |
For weekend warriors and adventure seekers, that extra 500 pounds could mean the difference between bringing along everything you need or leaving some toys at home.
Interior Features
The 2023 Honda Pilot and the 2024 Mazda CX-90 both stand out with their spacious and comfortable interiors. Each offers unique advantages in seating capacity and comfort features that cater to different needs and preferences.
Seating Capacity
The 2023 Honda Pilot can seat up to eight passengers, making it an excellent choice for larger families. The second row has an optional captain’s chairs configuration, reducing the capacity to seven but increasing comfort.
In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 offers seating for up to seven passengers. The standard setup includes captain’s chairs in the second row, providing ample room and easy access to the third row.
For a blend of luxury and practicality with fewer passengers, the CX-90 will likely suit your needs better.
Comfort and Convenience
Comfort is a priority in both models. The Honda Pilot boasts a quiet cabin, soft-touch materials, and easy-to-use controls. The seats are well-cushioned, and there’s plenty of legroom for all rows.
For the Mazda CX-90, it’s all about luxury touches. The interior feels upscale, with leather seats, wood trim, and high-quality finishes. The CX-90 also offers a more driver-focused cockpit with intuitive tech integration.
Heated seats and ventilated front seats come standard in higher trims of both SUVs.
The Pilot includes Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control common in SUVs nowadays, and the CX-90 counters with a more sophisticated version including heated steering for colder climates.
If you’re split between these two, consider how you prioritize extra seating versus luxury. Both vehicles excel in interior comfort, but their approaches cater to different tastes.
Safety Features
Our comparison of the 2023 Honda Pilot and the 2024 Mazda CX-90 dives into the specifics of what makes these SUVs safe. From advanced driver assistance systems to crash test ratings, both vehicles aim to keep you and your loved ones secure.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
The 2023 Honda Pilot and the 2024 Mazda CX-90 come packed with modern safety tech.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM)
In the CX-90, Mazda offers i-Activsense, which includes:
- Smart Brake Support (SBS)
- Radar Cruise Control (RCC)
- Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)
- Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
We appreciate how both brands prioritize these features. They make a world of difference in daily driving and long trips.
Crash Test Ratings
When it comes to crashworthiness, both models impress. The Honda Pilot has historically scored well in crash tests. The 2023 model is no different, earning high marks from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Mazda’s 2024 CX-90 is also a heavyweight champ. This SUV includes a powerful frame and extensive airbags. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it a Top Safety Pick+.
In essence, choosing between these two could come down to brand loyalty. Both vehicles provide top-notch safety features designed to protect.
Technology and Infotainment
In this section, we’ll compare the tech features of the 2023 Honda Pilot and the 2024 Mazda CX-90, focusing on their infotainment systems and connectivity options.
Infotainment Systems
The 2023 Honda Pilot boasts an 8-inch touchscreen that isn’t huge but does the trick 🖥️. The system comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard— a feature we all love for seamless integration with our smartphones 📱. The interface is user-friendly, and the system responds quickly to inputs. The higher trims also offer a rear entertainment system with a 10.2-inch screen, perfect for keeping the little ones entertained on long trips 🚗.
Mazda’s 2024 CX-90, on the other hand, features a larger 12.3-inch infotainment display. The screen is sharp and vibrant, making navigation and media controls more enjoyable. Mazda uses a rotary dial instead of a touchscreen, which some folks find easier to use while driving. The CX-90 also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but adds wireless capabilities on higher trims. This extra touch means no more fumbling with cables 👍.
Connectivity Options
Let’s talk connectivity! The Honda Pilot is packed with enough USB ports to keep everyone’s devices charged and ready to go 🎮. There are up to 7 USB ports available, depending on the trim. You also get a Wi-Fi hotspot on higher trims, making it easier to stay connected while on the move 🌐.
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 goes all out with its connectivity options too. Besides multiple USB ports, it also includes wireless charging pads for the front row. Feeling fancy? The CX-90’s top trims feature a 12-speaker Bose sound system, making your drive feel like a live concert 🎶. The Wi-Fi hotspot is also available for those who need constant access to the internet 🌐.
| Feature | Honda Pilot | Mazda CX-90 |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 8-inch | 12.3-inch |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard | Standard with Wireless on higher trims |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | Available on higher trims | Available |
| USB Ports | Up to 7 | Multiple |
| Wireless Charging | Available on higher trims | Available |
Pricing and Value
Both the 2023 Honda Pilot and the 2024 Mazda CX-90 offer competitive pricing and good value for their respective classes. They cater to slightly different audiences, so let’s explore each in detail.
Base Price Comparison
The 2023 Honda Pilot starts at around $37,000. This base model is well-equipped and offers good value for a family vehicle. Honestly, it’s a bit easier on the wallet compared to its competitors. When you’re looking at the Pilot, you get solid performance and generous standard features that many families find appealing.
On the flip side, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 starts at about $39,000, just a tad higher. The price difference might make you scratch your head, but remember, the CX-90 aims at a slightly more upscale segment. You’re paying a bit extra for its premium feel and engaging drive. Still, it doesn’t break the bank, especially if you value a touch more luxury in your ride.
Available Trims and Packages
The Honda Pilot comes in several trims including the EX-L, Touring, Elite, and Black Edition. Each trim bumps up the luxury and tech, but of course, this reflects in the price. For instance, the Elite trim reaches up to $50,000 but turns your SUV into almost a lounge on wheels. You also get cool packages like the Honda Sensing Safety Suite which includes advanced safety features.
On the Mazda CX-90, you have trims like Touring, Touring Plus, Preferred, and Premium. These range from about $39,000 to nearly $55,000 for the top-tier. Mazda’s trim strategy is appealing for those who want a premium experience without customizing a ton of options. The Premium Plus package, bundled with an array of tech and luxury features, is something to marvel at.
Both SUVs cater to different needs but provide value that reflects their pricing levels.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the 2023 Honda Pilot and the 2024 Mazda CX-90 is like picking between two top players on a sports team. Each has its strengths and quirks.
Let’s break it down:
| Aspect | Honda Pilot | Mazda CX-90 |
| Performance | 6.9 seconds to 60 mph | Faster with a smoother drive |
| Fuel Economy | Worse than CX-90 | Better EPA ratings |
| Design | Practical | Stylish |
| Technology | Standard | Advanced |
We found the Pilot to be a bit slower, though it still packs a punch. ⛽ Its fuel economy isn’t the greatest, but it gets the job done. We liked its practicality and standard tech.
On the flip side, the CX-90 impressed us with its faster speed and better fuel economy. 🚗 Its sleek design and advanced tech were also appealing.
In the end, it boils down to personal preference. If you prefer practicality and standard tech, the Pilot might be your best bet. If you lean toward speed, fuel efficiency, and sleek design, the CX-90 could be the way to go.
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