2026 Honda Pilot Elite vs 2026 Acura MDX Type S
$22,355 less and 2 mpg better vs 70 more hp and 92 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $22,355 price gap, 285 vs 355 hp, 21 vs 19 MPG.
The Pilot Elite leads on $22,355 less, 2 MPG better. The MDX Type S leads on 70 more hp, 92 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 Honda Pilot Elite | 2026 Acura MDX Type S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $53,495 | $75,850 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 3.0L V6 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 285 hp | 355 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 354 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed shiftable automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 17 |
| Highway MPG | 25 | 21 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 19 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.5 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $3,050/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,678 lbs | 4,776 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 113.8" | 113.8" |
| Length | 200.1" | 198.4" |
| Width | 78.5" | 78.7" |
| Height | 71.0" | 67.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP | TSP |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 6yr/70k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite and 2026 Acura MDX Type S?
The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite starts at $53,495, $22,355 less than the 2026 Acura MDX Type S at $75,850. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $394/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite?
The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite is the stronger pick when you want to keep $22,355 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $211/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Acura MDX Type S?
The 2026 Acura MDX Type S is the stronger pick when the extra 70 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite or 2026 Acura MDX Type S?
The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite rates 21 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite or 2026 Acura MDX Type S?
The 2026 Acura MDX Type S produces 355 hp, 70 more than the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite at 285 hp. The 2026 Acura MDX Type S also leads in torque at 354 lb-ft vs 262 lb-ft. The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite runs a 3.5L V6; the 2026 Acura MDX Type S uses a 3.0L V6 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite bigger than the 2026 Acura MDX Type S?
The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite is 1.7″ longer at 200.1″ vs 198.4″.
How do the warranties compare?
The Honda Pilot comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Acura MDX offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 6yr/70k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda Pilot trims, Acura trims, Acura MDX trims
- 2026 Honda Pilot Elite Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Acura MDX Type S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Pilot and MDX Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite ($53,495) and 2026 Acura MDX Type S ($75,850) solve similar problems in different ways. The $22,355 gap adds up to $394/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Pilot vs MDX
The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite runs a 3.5L V6; the 2026 Acura MDX Type S uses a 3.0L V6 Turbo. The 2026 Acura MDX Type S has 70 more hp (355 vs 285). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Acura MDX Type S adds 92 more lb-ft of torque (354 vs 262), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite saves roughly $211/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,055. The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite when you want to keep $22,355 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Acura MDX Type S when the extra 70 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $394/month more, the 2026 Acura MDX Type S needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Acura or any dealership.