2022 Acura RDX vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2022 Acura RDX showcased a series of subtle styling updates inspired by its larger sibling, the Acura MDX. These changes included modifications to the grille surround and the styling of both the front and rear bumpers. Acura also introduced new wheel designs and additional paint colors. The limited-production RDX PMC Edition was a standout with its exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and Orchid white interior. Built at the Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio—where the NSX sports car was also crafted—the PMC Edition topped the RDX lineup, which included base, Technology, A-Spec, Advance, and A-Spec Advance models, ranging from $42,300 to $53,300, excluding the $1,045 destination charge. Our test vehicle was the A-Spec Advance package model in Apex Blue Pearl paint with an Orchid interior, summing up to $53,645.

High-quality interior materials, solid build quality, and improved quietness were notable in the RDX A-Spec Advance. Despite mixed feelings about the new vertical air inlets on the front fascia, the RDX maintained a flair for style, setting it apart from many of its competitors.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more rugged and substantial appearance. Sporting a more upright grille and boxier styling, the new Pilot genuinely looked and was bigger than its predecessor. It grew 3.4 inches in length, up to 1.5 inches in width, and 0.8 inches in height. These changes perfectly complemented the all-terrain TrailSport model, which came equipped with legitimate off-road parts, including a one-inch taller ride height, unique 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and robust underbody skid plates capable of supporting the vehicle's weight.

While the interior of the new Pilot took a more conventional route compared to its predecessor and other new Honda models, it remained functional and versatile. The attractive cabin boasted a practicality that enhanced its utility, emphasizing function over form without sacrificing aesthetic appeal.

The 2022 Acura RDX was driven by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, generating an impressive 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm. The quick-spooling turbocharged engine contributed to the RDX’s spirited driving character. However, fuel economy did fall short if driven aggressively. In our evaluation, the RDX averaged 20.6 mpg, falling short of its EPA rating of 23 mpg. The vehicle featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, praised for its smooth behavior. Front-wheel drive came standard, while the Advance and A-Spec Advance models included Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, with a torque-vectoring capability that delivered up to 70% of the engine’s power to a single rear wheel. This resulted in enhanced handling, especially noticeable on twisting mountain roads.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Pilot was powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It came with a new 10-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive available across all models. The power was adequate, if not particularly impressive, but the Pilot offered quick initial acceleration. The ride was more tuned for comfort than sporty driving, which made sense for a family-oriented SUV. The steering, while feather-light and beneficial for tight spaces, felt somewhat vague on the highway.

For those opting for the off-road-capable TrailSport model, the Pilot offered increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and rugged go-anywhere capability. Despite these enhancements, the Pilot managed to maintain excellent on-road composure and comfort, making it a versatile option for those who desired both daily practicality and off-road adventures.

Despite its compact classification, the 2022 Acura RDX provided ample room for four adults and their luggage, enhanced by a standard panoramic sunroof. The sporty driving position and dramatic placement of the oversized IDS driving mode knob on the center dashboard added to its dynamic interior design. However, the control layout required a learning curve, and the A-Spec models’ metallic gauge faces with red markings were challenging to read in low-light conditions.

The RDX’s standard 12-way power-adjustable and heated front seats offered comfort and support, with optional ventilation. The back seat, however, was less comfortable, feeling flat and lacking support to ensure a flat cargo load floor when folded. The cargo space was generous, offering 29.5 cubic feet with the seats up and 58.9 cubic feet with them folded down, alongside sizable hidden storage compartments beneath the load floor.

The 2023 Honda Pilot, on the other hand, offered a more conventional interior, emphasizing practicality with features like a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level trims had a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The primary controls were logically placed, and various storage options, such as a large rubberized shelf for phones and a wide center console bin, enhanced convenience. The front doors also featured pockets and large cupholders.

The stowable second-row center seat was a standout feature, allowing easy access to the third row, which was particularly useful with a child seat installed. The second row offered ample space for adults, while the third row was less comfortable for longer trips. The Pilot provided impressive cargo space, offering 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 60.1 cubic feet with the second row folded, and a maximum of 114.3 cubic feet.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured an unconventional True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system. It paired a 10.2-inch display with a sectioned touchpad controller on the center console. While the touchpad corresponded directly with the screen, the system felt unnecessarily complicated compared to traditional touchscreens. However, the RDX also included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The Technology package added a navigation system, and three premium audio systems were available, with the ELS Studio 3D system featuring 16 speakers in higher trims.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Honda Pilot's infotainment system was more straightforward, with a larger touchscreen available on higher trims. Features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, USB ports in every row, and a multi-view camera system in higher trims. The Elite trim added a head-up display and a fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment touchscreen was praised for its quick responses and logical layout. Advanced features like Honda's CabinTalk, navigation, Bose premium audio, a smartphone app for remote monitoring, and a Wi-Fi hotspot were included in higher trims.

The 2022 Acura RDX boasted several safety enhancements, including structural upgrades for better side-impact protection and a new rear seatbelt reminder system. The standard AcuraWatch suite added pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims also included parking sensors and low-speed automatic braking. While the NHTSA awarded the RDX a five-star overall crash-test rating, the IIHS had yet to publish ratings for the 2022 model.

In comparison, the 2023 Honda Pilot featured the standard Honda Sensing suite, offering forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, traffic-jam assist, a blind-spot monitor, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, automatic high beams, and a driver attention monitor. Higher trims included low-speed automatic braking and parking sensors, with advanced features like surround-view and multi-view camera systems on the TrailSport and Elite trims. The IIHS awarded the Pilot a Top Safety Pick+, and Honda anticipated top scores from NHTSA as well.