2024 BMW X5 vs 2025 Honda Pilot

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, although the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch “741M” wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthwhile upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, and a turbocharged V8 engine, with various trim packages and options available. The xDrive50e M Sport model tested came with Brooklyn Grey paint and a comprehensive set of equipment packages, priced at $88,075. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh and introduced the BMW Curved Display, enhancing the interior's modernity while retaining high-quality materials and construction.

The 2025 Honda Pilot was available in several trims, with the Black Edition evaluated in Southern California. Priced at $55,975, it featured black wheels, blacked-out exterior trim, and black leather seats with red accents. The Pilot's rugged design, introduced in 2023, was more suited for suburban environments, with the TrailSport trim offering off-road capabilities. The interior was thoughtfully designed with quality materials, though the digital displays appeared dated. The Pilot's technology was competitive, but lacked a significant "wow factor." The Black Edition's custom look was distinctive, but some paint colors diminished the contrast of the black detailing.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV boasted significant enhancements, including a new electric motor and a 19.2 kWh lithium-ion battery, doubling the maximum AC charging rate to 7.4 kW. It offered 38 miles of electric-only driving and 22 mpg in hybrid mode, with a total output of 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV's adaptive damping air suspension masked its weight, providing excellent ride quality and handling. During testing, it achieved 38.8 mpg over 95.5 miles, showcasing its efficiency and performance. The X5 excelled in various driving conditions, including a spirited run on Mulholland Highway, demonstrating impressive acceleration, grip, and braking.

The 2025 Honda Pilot featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. It offered multiple driving modes and an AWD system with torque vectoring. The Pilot's V6 provided good acceleration, but the transmission occasionally hesitated. Fuel economy was underwhelming, averaging 20 mpg during testing. The Pilot's handling was predictable, though an adaptive-damping suspension would benefit higher trims. The Black Edition's 20-inch wheels contributed to its secure handling, while the compliant suspension offered a comfortable ride. The Pilot demonstrated off-road capability, though it was more suited for typical driving situations.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered a spacious interior with seating for five and a cargo area expandable from 33.1 to 71.2 cubic feet. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The test vehicle featured Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, standard sport seats, and the Climate Comfort Package, which included power-adjustable front seats, four-zone climate control, and heated elements. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed comfort and a panoramic sunroof, though a third-row seat was no longer available.

The 2025 Honda Pilot excelled in form and function, with three rows of seats and thoughtful storage solutions. The Black Edition's front row offered a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat but only a four-way passenger seat, which was a drawback for long trips. The second-row seats were roomy, with a removable center section for captain's chairs. The third row was suitable for adults for short periods, while children fit comfortably. The Pilot featured a remote engine start, triple-zone climate control, and heated second-row seats. The cargo area offered 18.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 86.5 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured a BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system running iDrive 8.5. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and over-the-air updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition, leading to inaccurate navigation results. The head-up display and augmented video function were highlights, though the reduction in physical controls was less favorable.

The 2025 Honda Pilot's technology appeared dated, with a 10.2-inch digital gauge panel and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The wireless CarPlay function was problematic, and the voice recognition system was inconsistent. The Bose audio system was adequate, but not exceptional. The Pilot included a CabinTalk feature for communication and a small head-up display, meeting basic technology expectations.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, which required deliberate activation. It performed well in specific conditions but occasionally engaged brakes unexpectedly. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance were effective, though the system misinterpreted obstacles at times. The X5 received high safety ratings from the IIHS and a four-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2025 Honda Pilot came with standard Honda Sensing safety features, including collision warnings, lane assistance, and adaptive cruise control. The Black Edition added parking sensors and a multi-view camera system. The adaptive cruise control occasionally misjudged traffic, and the lane-centering assist affected steering feel. The Pilot earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.