2023 Honda Pilot vs. 2024 Mazda CX-90: Does Mazda Take the Advantage From Honda?
- The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is more powerful than the 2023 Honda Pilot
- Mazda delivers opulence in the new CX-90
- The Honda Pilot doesn’t offer hybrid powertrains; the Mazda CX-90 does
Mazda recently introduced an exciting SUV to rival other three-row midsize crossovers. The CX-90 replaces the CX-9 as the largest model in the automaker’s lineup. How does the 2024 Mazda CX-90 compare to the 2023 Honda Pilot? Let’s find out.
| 2024 Mazda CX-90 | 2023 Honda Pilot | |
| Price | $40,970–$61,325 | $39,150–$52,030 |
| Engines | 3.3-liter turbo-6, 2.5-liter 4-cylinder PHEV | 3.5-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 280/340 hp, 323 hp | 285 hp |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| MPG | 24/28 mpg city/hwy, 56 MPGe combined | 19/27 mpg city/hwy |
What does the new 2024 Mazda CX-90 offer?
The new CX-90 has room for up to eight passengers, one more than the outgoing CX-9. This new Mazda SUV brings an available digital instrument display, a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment screen, and an electronic shifter on the center console. Mazda continues to provide a dial-controlled infotainment system instead of a touchscreen to reduce driving distractions.
Overall, the 2024 CX-90 has bold powertrain choices and the handling prowess expected from a Mazda vehicle.
Is the Mazda SUV more opulent than the Honda SUV?
Mazda vehicles typically offer a more premium experience than most mainstream models. The new CX-90 has a sleek design, a long nose, a pulled-back cabin, and large fenders. Those features give the new Mazda SUV a sporty stance. Add the chrome trim, and this SUV looks better suited for a sophisticated evening out than a wilderness adventure.
The 2023 Honda Pilot is a safe, practical SUV with straightforward styling and comfort. Honda redesigned this three-row crossover for 2023 to take families where they want to go. Although the lower trim levels aren’t as refined, the Pilot offers an Elite model that adds higher-class materials to the mix.
Between these two three-row midsize SUVs, the CX-90 hits the high notes slightly better than the Pilot.
Can the new 2024 Mazda CX-90 take on the trails like the 2023 Honda Pilot?
The CX-90’s high-class build doesn’t inspire confidence that this midsize SUV can take on trails. Every trim of this new Mazda SUV has all-wheel drive that’s biased to the rear wheels. This setup is typical of sporty SUVs, not off-roaders.
However, the 2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport trim boasts the following upgrades:
- An off-road tuned suspension
- Robust steel skid plates
- Expanded AWD capability
- Aggressive all-terrain tires
This new Pilot trim adds one inch of ground clearance to the Honda SUV. That added height makes the TrailSport the most capable Pilot in the 2023 lineup.
Although we can’t definitively say the Mazda CX-90 isn’t made for rugged adventures, early indicators show it’s a road-going, event-attention SUV. Honda made the Pilot TrailSport for off-road fun.
Should you drive the new Mazda SUV or the Honda SUV?
For style, premium qualities, and a dynamic driving experience, the luxurious Mazda CX-90 beats the Honda Pilot. On the other hand, if you want a family-friendly SUV with an off-roading option, the Honda Pilot delivers.
In addition, the new Mazda CX-90 brings a mild-hybrid setup with its inline-six engine and a plug-in hybrid powertrain for your fuel-sipping desires. The 2023 Honda Pilot continues with a naturally aspirated V6.
