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What is the Acura version of the Honda Pilot?

The Acura MDX is the luxury version of the Honda Pilot, offering a more premium driving experience and additional features. The MDX shares the same platform and many of the same components as the Pilot, but with a more upscale interior, more powerful engine options, and a higher price tag.


What is the Acura MDX?


The Acura MDX is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV that has been in production since the 2001 model year. It is Acura's flagship SUV model and is positioned above the smaller Acura RDX in the brand's lineup. The MDX is designed to compete with other premium three-row crossovers like the Lexus RX, BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz GLE.


Similarities and Differences Between the MDX and Pilot


The Acura MDX and Honda Pilot share the same basic platform and many mechanical components, including the engine and transmission. However, the MDX features a more powerful V6 engine, a more sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, and a more premium interior with higher-quality materials and additional luxury features. Some key differences include:



  • Engine: The MDX comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower, compared to the Pilot's 280-horsepower V6.

  • Transmission: The MDX uses a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the Pilot has a 9-speed automatic.

  • All-Wheel Drive: The MDX offers a more advanced all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring for improved handling.

  • Interior: The MDX has a more upscale interior with higher-quality materials, more standard features, and available luxury options like premium leather, heated/ventilated seats, and a premium audio system.

  • Price: The MDX starts at a higher base price than the Pilot, typically ranging from around $50,000 to $60,000 compared to the Pilot's $35,000 to $50,000 range.


Overall, the Acura MDX provides a more premium and performance-oriented driving experience compared to the Honda Pilot, at a higher price point. Both models offer three-row seating, ample cargo space, and a range of family-friendly features, but the MDX is targeted at buyers seeking a more luxurious and upscale SUV.

Which is better, Acura or Lexus?


Reliability and Dependability
In the 2022 J.D. Power U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, Lexus ranked first with a score of 133 problems per 100 vehicles, significantly outperforming the industry average of 186 PP100. Acura, while still above average, scored 211 PP100.



Is Acura higher quality than Honda?


Acura, on the other hand, is Honda's luxury division. Launched in 1986, Acura was the first Japanese premium car brand. The vehicles under this marque are designed with a greater emphasis on performance, luxury features, and a higher level of craftsmanship.



What Acura is like the pilot?


Acura MDX
The Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot comparison begins with a similarity: Both models have a standard 3.5-liter V-6 engine. However, the 2024 Acura MDX delivers 290 horsepower, while the 2024 Honda Pilot provides 285 horsepower. Both have a standard 10-speed automatic transmission.



What Honda is the Acura RDX based on?


CR-V
Today, Acura vehicles like the RDX still share a platform and reliable engineering with Honda vehicles (the CR-V in this case), but they add a lot more luxury and performance.



Which Honda is the Acura MDX based on?


Honda Pilot
The MDX is the first luxury crossover SUV to have standard third-row seating, and shares its platform with the Honda Pilot. The Pilot was made available with an eight person seating configuration, while the MDX exclusively seats seven, with two seating positions in the third row.



Which Acura is like the pilot?


Acura MDX
The Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot comparison begins with a similarity: Both models have a standard 3.5-liter V-6 engine. However, the 2024 Acura MDX delivers 290 horsepower, while the 2024 Honda Pilot provides 285 horsepower. Both have a standard 10-speed automatic transmission.



What SUV is comparable to the Acura MDX?


Cars similar to 2025 Acura MDX

  • 2025 Acura MDX. #11 in Luxury Large SUVs. Get Your Price.
  • 2025 Lincoln Aviator. #13 in Luxury Mid-Size SUVs. Get Your Price.
  • 2024 Cadillac XT6. Get Your Price.
  • 2024 INFINITI QX60.
  • 2024 Volvo XC90. Get Your Price.
  • 2024 Genesis GV80.



What is the luxury version of Honda Pilot?


The Elite. The Elite is the most expensive option of the Pilot trims at $52,030.



What is the most reliable Acura SUV?


The MDX comes with a variety of advanced safety and technology features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The MDX is the most reliable luxury hybrid SUV, according to iSeeCars1.



Is an Acura MDX the same as a pilot?


No, the Honda Pilot and Acura MDX aren't the same vehicle. They both utilize 3.5-liter V-6 engines that help them tow up to 5,000 pounds when the SUVs are properly equipped, but the horsepower output is slightly different. The Honda Pilot is less expensive, longer, and has more cargo room than the Acura MDX.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.