2026 Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot Comparison with Price, Specs, & Photos
The Honda Pilot and Acura MDX are both three-row SUVs that are built on the same platform. But if you think this is basically the same vehicle with two different badges on it, you’re in for a surprise. For all of the similarities between the two, there are a number of important differences to consider when choosing which one is right for you. That’s why our team at Joe Rizza Acura has put together this guide, because not all of those differences are obvious. This informative Acura MDX vs Honda Pilot comparison guide will showcase all the advantages that come from choosing the Acura equivalent to the Honda Pilot. We’re proud to be your top destination for new Acura MDX models near Chicago.
Acura MDX VS Honda Pilot - Dimensions
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| 2026 Acura MDX | VS | 2026 Honda Pilot |
| 113.8 inches | Wheelbase | 113.8 inches |
| 198.4 inches | Length | 199.9 inches |
| 67.9 inches | Height | 71 inches |
| 78.7 inches | Width | 78.5 inches |
| 7.3 inches / 6.7-9.4 inches | Ground Clearance | 7.3 inches / 8.3 inches |
| 38.5 inches / 38.1 inches / 36.2 inches | Headroom (front/middle/rear) | 40.5 inches / 40.2 inches / 39.3 inches |
| 41.6 inches / 38.5 inches / 29.1 inches | Legroom (front/middle/rear) | 41.0 inches / 40.8 inches / 32.5 inches |
| 16.3 cubic feet / 71.4 cubic feet | Cargo Volume (behind 3rd-row/behind 1st-row) | 18.6 cubic feet / 87 cubic feet |
Obviously, since they are built on the same platform, these two SUVs are similar in size. The Honda Pilot is a little bit larger, while the more handling-focused Acura MDX sports a slightly lower center of gravity. On the subject of handling, ground clearance is one area where some explanation is needed. Both SUVs come with 7.3 inches of ground clearance as standard, but each one also has one trim that’s different. For the MDX, that trim is the Type S, which comes with adjustable air suspension that can be set anywhere from 6.7 to 9.4 inches. For the Pilot, the different trim is the off-road-focused TrailSport, which comes with a non-adjustable 8.3 inches of ground clearance.
It’s also important to note that both models are equipped with third-row seating to accommodate additional passengers. This seat can also be lowered flat to transport additional cargo or equipment for your next adventure. The Acura MDX offers 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space in its third row while the Honda Pilot offers 18.6 cubic feet. The difference is minuscule, though there’s no denying the premium refinement that you’ll enjoy by choosing Acura over Honda.
Acura MDX Advantages
- Available adjustable air suspension
- Standard third row seats
- Lower ride height for superior aerodynamics
Acura MDX VS Honda Pilot - Performance
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| 2026 Honda Pilot | 2026 Acura MDX | 2026 Acura MDX Type S | |
| Engine | 3.5-liter V6 | 3.5-liter V6 | 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 |
| Valvetrain | 24-Valve DOHC with Dual Variable Timing Control (VTC) | 24-Valve, SOHC i-VTEC® | 24-Valve, DOHC |
| Horsepower | 285 | 290 | 355 |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 267 lb-ft | 354 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 2nd-Gen 10-Speed Automatic (10AT) with Shift-By-Wire (SBW) & Paddle Shifters | 10-Speed Automatic with Sequential SportShift Paddle Shifters | 10-Speed Automatic with Sequential SportShift Paddle Shifters |
| Front Suspension | Strut | Double Wishbone | Double Wishbone w/Adaptive Air Suspension |
| Brakes (front/rear) | 13.8 in / 13 in | 13.8 in / 13 in | 14.3 in (Brembo® Front 4-Piston) / 13 in |
Although both the Honda Pilot and the Acura MDX come with a 3.5-liter V6 and the same engine block architecture is used, there are a few key differences between the engines. The Pilot uses a dual-overhead cam valvetrain, while the MDX comes with a single-cam layout for improved throttle response. The MDX makes a bit more power, but obviously, it’s the MDX Type S that packs the biggest punch. The displacement of the V6 in the Type S might be smaller, but the twin-scroll turbocharger significantly increases the power output. All three engines come mated to a highly advanced 10-speed automatic transmission that can be manually shifted using paddles.
Both SUVs come with front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available, and standard on some trims. For the Pilot, the only trim with standard AWD is the TrailSport, but there are four trims of the MDX that come with it, including the Type S. Handling is another area where you’ll feel the difference between these two SUVs, since the MDX has a double wishbone front suspension setup, allowing for more precise control than the strut setup in the Pilot. Brakes are the same for all trims of both vehicles, with the sole exception of the MDX Type S, which comes with bigger front rotors and Brembo® 4-piston calipers. Towing capacity is the same for both vehicles: 3,500 pounds for FWD models and 5,000 pounds for AWD models.
Acura MDX Advantages
- Dedicated high-performance Type S variant
- Superior suspension geometry for crisp handling
- Greater horsepower and torque, larger brake system
Acura MDX VS Honda Pilot - Equipment
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With the Honda Pilot starting at $42,395 and the Acura MDX starting at $51,800*, there is obviously going to be a difference when it comes to equipment. All of the advantages here belong to the MDX, which comes with far more standard equipment, including things like a panoramic moonroof, a power tailgate, and heated side mirrors. But the more noticeable differences are found on the interior. Both SUVs come with heated front seats, but the MDX also comes with driver seat memory and more comprehensive lumbar support for both the driver and passenger.
The Acura MDX also comes with standard navigation and a wireless phone charging pad. However, one of the more dramatic differences is the stereo. The Pilot comes with a 9-speaker system, while the MDX comes with one that has 11 speakers. Both of those are only for the base trims. With the Pilot, moving up to higher trims is required to receive a 12-speaker Bose premium system. The middle four trims of the MDX feature a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo and upgrading to the Type S takes the speaker count up to 31. In all, the Acura MDX offers a much more premium experience than the Honda Pilot.
Acura MDX Advantages
- Superior audio systems
- More standard premium features
- Enhanced comfort and connectivity
*MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) excluding tax, license, registration, $1,450 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.