Is the Acura MDX better than the Honda Pilot?

The Acura MDX is "better" if you prioritize luxury, sporty driving dynamics, and premium cabin materials. The Honda Pilot is "better" if you prioritize maximum passenger space, cargo utility, and overall value.

Because both vehicles share the same underlying Honda light-truck platform and a similar 3.5L V6 engine architecture, they share a DNA of reliability. However, they are tuned for entirely different audiences:

• Choose the Acura MDX if you want athletic handling (thanks to a sophisticated double-wishbone front suspension), a quiet and upscale cabin, premium audio systems, and the option of a high-performance engine (the Type S).
• Choose the Honda Pilot if you regularly use the third row, need maximum cargo space, want clever family-friendly features (like the removable second-row middle seat), and prefer to spend less upfront and at the pump (the Pilot runs on regular unleaded fuel, while the MDX recommends premium).