Current Gen Pilot vs' 04 or newer MDX

[hondapeople]

We are Accord owners and are thinking of purchasing a newer Pilot or an '04 or newer MDX. Which is a better value? I guess the MDX is a little smaller inside, seats 7 instead of 8, has a little more power, and is quieter? Anyone have experience here? Thanks!

[rlapid]

i used to drive an accord as well. i went with the pilot because its an overall better value than the mdx, imo. the main things i considered were cargo space, overall interior space, and how many people it can accomodate. the pilot exceeds the mdx in all of these aspects. however, the mdx is more of a luxury vehicle, so it is a bit quieter inside and has a few features the pilot lacks. both vehicles are excellent choices, its just a matter of personal taste and choosing which one is more suited to your lifestyle. good luck!

[ncelk]

I have had both, it comes down to which you prefer and which one you like the best.

The MDX is smaller, but has a lot of nicer features. The Pilot rides better, but the MDX is quieter.

All in what you are looking for................

[netman88]

I used to have an Honda Accord also then I purchased an '03 Acura MDX. Not much changed from '03 to '04 MDX btw. The 03 MDX got into an accident so now I have a Honda Pilot.

The MDX definately gives you a boost in power and with better quality leather and the extra Horsepower was great plus other little perks like rain sensing wipers and memory seats.

Dealer service cost more with the MDX than the Pilot.

The '04 MDX requires Premium fuel whereas the Pilot can run on regular.

The Pilot is really the best value for SUV. But the looks are not as sporty as the Acura.

Keep in mind that in '06 and belong the Curtain Airbags is included in the Honda Pilot.

You have to get '05 MDX to get the curtain airbags.

There's no curtain airbags for the '04 and before.

Do you have a budget?

[jl_ss]

It depends on what your use for the vehicle will be. Our 2005 Pilot replaced a 2003 MDX. The MDX has a tighter suspension so it handles better but you feel every bump. You won't notice the HP difference in normal everyday driving. The MDX can be serviced at a Honda dealership (cheaper) but warranty work must be done at an acura dealership. The MDX requires premium fuel but quite a few owners run regular (including myself) with no noticeable effects in everyday driving. If you are towing or drag racing you will need premium. The MDX interior is a little more luxurious and you can get factory DVD and Navi together. However, both the MDX and the Pilot use easily scratched interior plastics. That was one of the main reasons we chose to buy the Pilot over another MDX. We use it as a family hauler and did not want to spend the extra money on another MDX that would have the interior looking trashed very quickly from normal family use.