The 2020 Honda Pilot comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 9-speed shiftable automatic, 6-speed automatic.No major changes for 2020.New top-line Black Edition trim level.
Pros A versatile, roomy interior with spacious rear seats Ride is smooth and compliant in most conditions Better fuel economy than rivals Multiple clever storage compartments
Cons Collision warning and adaptive cruise control are overly sensitive Third-row access is narrow
For 2020, the Honda Pilot receives the mildest of updates. Along with a small price increase, the Pilot lineup adds a new range-topping model called the Black Edition. Honda fans will recognize that the same edition is available on the Ridgeline mid-size pickup truck. Likewise, the Pilot Black Edition has standard all-wheel drive, blacked-out exterior bits, and red interior accents.
Pros Strong and efficient V-6, roomy and practical interior, plenty of available tech.
Cons Clunky six-speed automatic transmission, minivan-like appearance, frustrating touchscreen.
The 2020 Honda Pilot is a three-row family crossover at the top of its class.
Pros Handsome looks Good seats all the way around Comfortable power Standard active safety tech Good infotainment on most versions
Cons Base model skimp on features Too conservative? 9-speed isn’t much more fuel-efficient Top trims lack convincing luxury features
The 2020 Mazda CX-9 comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.Several previously optional safety features are now standard on the base Sport trim level.New options, such as a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen and second-row captain's chairs.Two USB ports added to the third row on Grand Touring and Signature models.Maximum torque output goes from 310 to 320 lb-ft with 93-octane fuel.
PROS Premium interior, especially in the top-level Signature trim Sporty handling Comfortable and quiet on the highway
CONS Cargo capacity isn't as generous as in competitors Third-row seats aren't especially accommodating
The 2020 Mazda CX-9 is a crossover SUV that rewards drivers more than it does other passengers.
Pros Very attractive Well-done interior Good safety gear Engaging responsiveness
Cons Lousy infotainment Cramped third-row and cargo space Limited lineup
Mazda has given the CX-9 several upgrades for 2020, not least of which is a standard suite of driver-assistance features called i-Activsense. The bundle includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Also now standard are heated front seats with power adjustments for the driver, rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic headlamps, and heated exterior mirrors. Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature models now come with a larger 9.0-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a new key-fob design, and power-adjustable second-row seats.
Pros Snappy driving dynamics, great fuel economy, premium cabin.
Cons Small cargo bay, third row is only for kids, low towing capacity.
