When it comes to mid-size crossover SUVs, you have lots of choices. The 2024 Mazda CX-90 and 2023 Honda Pilot are both quality options. Let’s look at the specs of both to figure out how they compare.
The CX-90 comes in eight available trim levels, ranging from the base-level 3.3 Turbo Select to the high-end 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus. The Pilot comes in five configurations, from the affordable Sport to the pricier Elite model. We’ll find most of what these vehicles have to offer a couple steps up from the base model, so let’s look at the standard features of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo Preferred Plus vs. the 2023 Honda Pilot EX-L with AWD upgrade.
The CX-90 comes with a powerful 280-hp, e-SKYACTIV®-G 3.3L Turbo Inline 6 engine, delivering 332 lb-ft torque @ 2,000 rpm and a towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs. Rear-biased, i-ACTIV AWD® with sport, off-road, and towing intelligent drive modes and e-SKYACTIV®-Drive 8-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift make for a great driving experience. With an estimated fuel economy of 24 MPG city / 28 MPG highway, the CX-90 provides exceptional performance with nimble handling and good fuel efficiency.
The Pilot boasts a 285-hp V6 engine under the hood for 262 lb-ft torque @ 5,000 rpm and a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. For the drivetrain, we have intelligent variable torque management AWD with ECON, snow, tow, sport, trail & sand drive modes and 10-speed automatic transmission with shift-by-wire and paddle shifters. With an estimated 19 MPG city / 25 MPG highway, the Pilot is just okay when considering fuel efficiency.
Overall, both the CX-90 and the Pilot are capable performers in most circumstances.
The Mazda CX-90 boasts an impressive lineup of safety features. Standard driver-assistance features include radar cruise control with stop and go and auto speed limit assist, dynamic stability control, and lane departure warning with lane-keep assist.
The Honda Pilot holds its own when considering safety. The Pilot comes with a driver assist package that includes forward collision warning, lane keeping assist with traffic jam assist, and road departure mitigation system.
Mazdas are renowned for their stunning interiors, and the CX-90 is no exception. Inside you’ll find a comfortable interior with power-adjustable heated seats, three-zone automatic climate control, up to 75.2 cubic feet of cargo space and plenty of room to seat eight. The Mazda Connect™ infotainment system features HD radio, voice command, wireless Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integrations, 8-speaker audio system, Pandora® internet radio integration, and everything you need to feel at home behind the wheel.
We have no major complaints about the Pilot’s interior. With 87 cubic feet of cargo space and seating for eight, space shouldn’t be an issue. Wireless Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ compatibility, 9-speaker audio system, HD radio, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio, and more make for a respectable infotainment setup.
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 exhibits a level of refinement and performance beyond what its price tag suggests. The 2023 Honda Pilot is also a solid pick. You can’t go wrong with either, but in our opinion, the Mazda CX-90 wins this matchup.
Our experienced sales staff is eager to share their knowledge and enthusiasm with you to find the best lease, buy, or finance options. When purchasing a vehicle there are multiple buying options to take into consideration, and we always recommend the one that best fits your financial needs. We encourage you to browse our online inventory of the Mazda CX-90, schedule a test drive and investigate auto loan financing options.
Chat with us for more information about the Mazda CX-90 or give us a call at 732-334-3949.
If you still can’t decide on the Mazda CX-90 vs. Honda Pilot, set up an appointment to visit our showroom to help you get the information you need in order to make an informed decision.
