Honda PilotvsMazda CX-9
Compared as tested: 3.5 AT 4WD vs 2.5 AT AWD
Key Specs Comparison
| Spec | Honda Pilot | Mazda CX-9 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 249 hp✓ | 231 hp |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 420 Nm✓ |
| 0–100 km/h | 9.9 s | 8.6 s✓ |
| Weight | 2109 kg | 1951 kg✓ |
How They Compare
- The Honda Pilot puts out 18 more horsepower (249 hp vs 231 hp).
- The Mazda CX-9 hits 0–60 mph 1.3 seconds faster (8.6s vs 9.9s).
- The Mazda CX-9 is 158 kg lighter — 8% less weight to push around.
- The Mazda CX-9 delivers more torque: 420 Nm vs 347 Nm.
- The Honda Pilot runs a larger 3.5L engine versus the 2.5L unit in the Mazda CX-9.
- The Mazda CX-9 rides on a 155 mm longer wheelbase, which usually translates to more cabin room.
- At 5.08 m, the Mazda CX-9 is 20 cm longer than the Honda Pilot — easier to live with in town for the shorter car.
Radar Comparison
Performance at a Glance
Expert Analysis
The Family Commuter vs. The Driving Enthusiast
The Honda Pilot is tailored for the buyer who prioritizes a traditional, effortless commute. By relying on a naturally aspirated 3.5L engine, it delivers its 249 horses in a highly predictable manner. For the daily driver, this translates to a smoother, linear power delivery that excels in stop-and-go traffic. Its shorter length and taller stature make it exceptionally easy to maneuver into tight urban parking spaces or school drop-off lanes.
The Enthusiast's Advantage
For the driving enthusiast, the Mazda CX-9 presents a vastly more compelling package. Mazda engineers have managed to shed 158 kg of excess weight compared to the Honda. This 8 percent reduction in mass dramatically transforms the driving dynamics, making the crossover feel far more agile and eager to tackle winding backroads. Under the hood, a smaller 2.5L engine works smarter, not harder. It generates a remarkable 420 Nm of torque. This massive low-end twist allows the Mazda to sprint to highway speeds noticeably quicker than its rival, achieving a 0-100 km/h time of just 8.6 seconds.
Space and Practicality
Families must carefully analyze the physical dimensions of these two options. The Mazda stretches longer from bumper to bumper and rides on a significantly elongated wheelbase. This extended footprint heavily suggests superior legroom for third-row passengers and a more relaxed highway ride. However, that extra size demands respect in crowded shopping centers, where the slightly shorter Pilot holds a distinct maneuverability advantage.
Our Verdict
Buy the Honda Pilot if you are primarily a family commuter or an urban dweller. Its slightly smaller footprint, taller roofline, and traditional 18-horsepower advantage offer a predictable, user-friendly experience for navigating tight city streets. Choose the Mazda CX-9 if you are an enthusiast who also needs to transport a family. Its superior torque, rapid acceleration, and lighter chassis deliver a genuinely engaging drive without sacrificing the interior space provided by that long wheelbase.
Full Specifications
Engine
| Spec | Honda Pilot | Mazda CX-9 |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 249 hp | 231 hp |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Displacement | 3471 cc | 2488 cc |
Performance
| Spec | Honda Pilot | Mazda CX-9 |
|---|---|---|
| 0–100 km/h | 9.9 s | 8.6 s |
Efficiency
| Spec | Honda Pilot | Mazda CX-9 |
|---|
Dimensions & Weight
| Spec | Honda Pilot | Mazda CX-9 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4875 mm | 5075 mm |
| Width | 1995 mm | 1969 mm |
| Height | 1845 mm | 1747 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2775 mm | 2930 mm |
| Curb Weight | 2109 kg | 1951 kg |
Drivetrain
| Spec | Honda Pilot | Mazda CX-9 |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Type | All wheel drive (AWD) | All wheel drive (AWD) |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Body Type | Crossover | Crossover |
Verdict
🏆 Mazda CX-9 2.5 AT AWD
51 vs 50 points
The Mazda CX-9 edges ahead on overall specs. The Honda wins on: power. The Mazda wins on: performance, comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is faster, the Honda Pilot or the Mazda CX-9?
The Mazda CX-9 is quicker, reaching 60 mph in 8.6s versus 9.9s for the Honda Pilot.
Which has more power, the Honda Pilot or the Mazda CX-9?
The Honda Pilot produces 249 hp, 18 hp more than the Mazda CX-9's 231 hp.