The 2019 Mazda CX-9 is more than just a pretty face. Along with its attractive style comes plenty of utility and a quick and sporty driving character that enhances the typical three-row family shuttle.Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are newly available.Retuned suspension for a smoother ride.New surround-view parking camera system.
PROS Premium interior, especially 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 2019 Mazda CX-9 delivers heavily on style, but it’s just adequate in other respects.
Pros Gorgeous sheetmetal Near-luxury interior Widely available safety tech Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, finally
Cons No touchscreen functionality Not as much space as competitors Limited options No hybrid alternative
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto finally join the spec sheet for 2019 and are standard on Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature trims. Mazda has included a list of other optional features for 2019 as well, which includes ventilated front seats, a 360-degree-view exterior camera system, SiriusXM Travel Link (live traffic and weather updates, among other things), a digital gauge display, power-folding exterior mirrors, and a frameless rearview mirror. The luxurious Signature trim now comes with a new wood trim inside and exclusive exterior badging.
Pros Sweetest-driving three-row, fuel-efficient powertrain, near-luxury interior.
Cons Compromised cargo room, tight third row, no second-row captain's chairs.
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
