Mazda CX-9 vs. Honda Pilot

What to Consider When Choosing Between the Mazda CX-9 and Honda Pilot

Are you in the market for a spacious and versatile third-row SUV, but you don’t know which one to choose? Look no further than the Mazda CX-9 and Honda Pilot, two of the top contenders in their class. Both of these SUVs offer ample space for passengers and cargo as well as a host of advanced features for comfort, convenience, and safety. However, the key differences between the two might sway you in one direction or the other.

Let’s take a minute to compare the Mazda CX-9 and Honda Pilot across several categories, including performance, design, technology, and safety. By the time you finish reading, you will have a better idea of which SUV suits your needs and preferences.

Performance Comparison of the Mazda CX-9 and Honda Pilot

Whether you drive a family-friendly, three-row SUV or a sports car, one of the most important elements for drivers to consider is the performance of the vehicle. In the case of the Mazda CX-9 and Honda Pilot, it’s important to consider what’s under the hood and how that translates to improving the driving experience.

Engine and Transmission Comparison

When it comes to engine size, the power of the Honda Pilot stands out with its standard 3.5-liter, 285 horsepower (hp), V6 engine, which offers 262 pound-feet (lb-ft) of torque. This is the largest engine available for this class of vehicle, which creates extra notability for the Pilot. However, the Pilot only comes with front-wheel drive as standard, meaning you will have to pay more to upgrade to all-wheel drive (AWD), and that added power comes at the cost of fuel efficiency. The Pilot’s fuel efficiency averages a mediocre 19 miles per gallon (MPG) in the city.

In contrast, the Mazda CX-9 offers an in-line, 2.5-liter turbocharged, four-cylinder engine that produces up to 250 hp with 310 lb-ft of torque. This smaller engine, which is paired with standard AWD, only delivers slightly less performance in terms of horsepower, which helps improve fuel efficiency. The CX-9 averages 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway.

Handling and Suspension Comparison

The way that a vehicle drives — in other words, its handling and feel on the road — is just as important as its under-the-hood statistics. In this regard, most reviewers report that the Pilot offers a comfortable ride with decent handling for its class. The CX-9, like other Mazda vehicles, is often praised for its more engaging and sporty handling, making it feel more like a car than a typical SUV.

Interior and Exterior Comparison of the Mazda CX-9 and Honda Pilot

When it comes to the larger class of vehicles like the three-row Honda Pilot and Mazda CX-9, style might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, visual appeal does matter, especially when those looks translate to practical advantages and comforts that make the time you and your family spend on the road more enjoyable.

Exterior: Design and Style Comparison

In terms of its design and style, the Pilot has a more traditional and conservative SUV design. It is notable for its boxier shape and chrome-accented front grill. In contrast, the CX-9 features a more striking and stylish design, imbued with Mazda’s signature KODO design philosophy. The CX-9 has a powerful visual presence and an exterior that is shape designed to work with light and shadow, creating a more stunning, upscale appearance.

Interior: Space and Comfort Comparison

As midsize SUVs with a third row, both the Pilot and CX-9 can seat up to 8 passengers, depending on their interior layout. In terms of cargo area, the Pilot has 16 cubic feet of rear space, but this can be increased to 82 cubic feet if you fold down the second- and third-row seats. Similarly, the CX-9 provides 14 cubic feet of cargo space if all seats are raised and increases to 71 cubic feet if the rows are lowered.

From a style perspective, the interior of the Pilot is functional and well-built, but it might be considered less luxurious compared to the CX-9. Indeed, the CX-9 follows along with other Mazda models, offering a more luxurious experience for its price point. The CX-9 offers a high-quality and premium interior with upscale materials and a more modern design.

Technology and Safety Features Comparison of the Mazda CX-9 and Honda Pilot

The final major comparison that many perspective buyers make between the Honda Pilot and Mazda CX-9 has to do with their technology offerings. Specifically, many vehicles’ technology translates to both safety and entertainment systems. Let’s take a look at how those options measure up between the two vehicles.

Infotainment and Connectivity Comparison

When it comes to entertainment and connectivity, the Pilot offers a solid selection with its 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The user-friendly system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In comparison, the Mazda CX-9 features a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a more modern and intuitive interface and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with the option to upgrade to a custom-fitted, 12-speaker Bose® audio system.

Safety Features Comparison

When it comes to safety, it’s nice to know that both the Pilot and the CX-9 get good ratings. This is because both vehicles offer a range of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and more. Both have also received good safety ratings from organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

What Experts Are Saying About the Mazda CX-9 and Honda Pilot

Finally, experts and drivers alike approve of both the Honda Pilot and the Mazda CX-9. These vehicles are two of the most popular midsize SUVs on the market for a reason. However, the reasons that someone may choose the Honda Pilot vs. The Mazda CX-9 are a little more nuanced and specific.

For example, the Honda Pilot has traditionally received positive reviews for its practicality, spacious interior, and reliability. On the flip side, the Mazda CX-9 has garnered praise for its upscale interior, stylish design, and sporty handling.

Conclusion

Clearly, both the Honda Pilot and Mazda CX-9 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between them ultimately depends on your personal preferences and priorities, whether it’s performance, design, technology, or safety. We recommend that you test drive both vehicles and consider your specific needs and budget before making a decision.

Test Drive the Mazda CX-9 at DePaula Mazda in Albany, NY, Today! 

Indeed, when it comes to choosing the right midsize SUV for your family, the best way to start is with a test drive. By getting into and driving the vehicle you may ultimately purchase, it’s easier to imagine if you would be happy driving it each day. At DePaula Mazda in Albany, NY, we are happy to take you on a detailed tour of the CX-9 as well as a test drive so you can see the difference and the luxury that driving a Mazda invites. Contact us or stop by the showroom today to learn more about the CX-9 or any of our other Mazda models.