Comparing Third-Row SUVs: 2025 Honda Pilot vs. Mazda CX-90

Adam from the Walser Automotive Group and today we’re comparing two third-row SUVs: Mazda CX-90 and Honda Pilot. We’ll dive into the exterior, interior, and overall options that each offer. Which is perfect for you? Read along and find out!

Honda Pilot Overview

Pilot Exterior

• Model: 2025 Honda Pilot Touring Trim
• Trim Levels: Multiple, with Touring being mid-tier and Elite being higher
• Drive Options: Standard front-wheel drive, optional all-wheel drive
• Engine: V6
  • Fuel Economy: 25 MPG highway, 21 MPG combined
  • Transmission: 10-speed automatic
• Features:
  • 20-inch wheels
  • Roof rack rails for outdoor activities
  • Parking sensors with sonar system
  • Keyless entry and push-button start

Pilot Interior: Second and Third Row

• Storage: Ample door storage, cell phone pockets, and USB chargers
• Comfort: Sliding seats for adjustable space, climate control, and window shades
• Seating:
  • 8-passenger configuration with removable center seat
  • Flexible seating arrangement for increased cargo space

Pilot Interior: Driver’s Seat

• Tech: Wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and responsive infotainment screen
• Safety: Honda Sensing system with features like forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist
• Convenience: Digital gauge cluster, dual-zone climate control, and heated seats
• Other Features: Panoramic sunroof, remote start, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and multiple drive modes

Mazda CX-90 Overview

CX-90 Exterior

• Model: Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo with Premium Package
• Drive Options: Standard all-wheel drive
• Engine: 3.3L inline-6 turbocharged
  • Fuel Economy: 28 MPG highway, 25 MPG combined
• Features:
  • 21-inch wheels
  • Roof rack rails
  • Parking sensors
  • LED daytime running lights and headlights
  • Power liftgate

CX-90 Interior: Second and Third Row

• Seating: Captain’s chairs or optional bench seat
• Comfort: Premium materials, third-zone climate control, and USB chargers
• Space: Slightly tighter third row compared to the Pilot, with ample headroom and knee space

CX-90 Interior: Driver’s Seat

• Tech: Wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, heads-up display, and multimedia controller
• Safety: Driver assists system with radar cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring and more
• Design: Luxurious interior with lighter wood accents and bronze details, panoramic sunroof
• Sound System: Bose audio system
• Convenience: Heated seats, paddle shifters, and voice control

Pricing and Final Comparison

• Honda Pilot Touring: Just over $50,000 MSRP
• Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium: Approximately $47,900, potentially closer to $50,000 with additional features
• Differences:
  • Pilot: More spacious, practical for larger families, feels more aligned with Nissan and Toyota competitors
  • CX-90: More luxurious, feels competitive with luxury brands like Acura and Infiniti

Conclusion

We recommend test driving both vehicles, evaluate space and comfort in the second and third rows, and choose based on your lifestyle and preferences. Both make for excellent choices and offer unique characteristics on each model!

Thank you for watching and considering the CX-90 and Pilot. Whether it’s the Honda or Mazda, we’re here to assist you in finding the ideal SUV for your lifestyle. If you have any further questions or want to schedule a test drive, visit us online at walser.com or stop by one of our locations. We’re here to assist you! Thanks for watching, and happy driving! See you at Walser Automotive Group! To determine which one is the right fit for you, we recommend scheduling a test drive at one of our Walser locations in Minneapolis or St. Paul. You can also see all of our great deals and limited time special offers on our specials page.

You can follow us on Instagram: Instagram

Check us out on Facebook: Facebook