2025 Honda Pilot vs 2024 Volvo XC90

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was available in B5, B6, and Recharge T8 model series, each offering a unique powertrain. The B5 featured a turbocharged mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine, while the B6 added a supercharger for enhanced performance. The Recharge T8, a plug-in hybrid, provided the most power and efficiency, with an estimated 32 miles of electric-only range. All models came standard with all-wheel drive. Volvo offered the XC90 in Core, Plus, and Ultimate trims, with prices ranging from $56,000 to $79,600, excluding the destination charge. The Recharge T8 in Ultimate trim, tested with seven-passenger seating, included luxury features like massaging front seats, a premium audio system, and a trailer hitch, priced at $89,145. The XC90's exterior was characterized by a subdued, earthy color palette and elegant wheel designs, while the interior, though dated, boasted rich materials and customizable options.

The 2025 Honda Pilot was offered in Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, Elite, and Black Edition trims. The Sport model was affordable but lacked amenities, making the EX-L a recommended upgrade. Prices ranged from $40,200 to $54,580, plus the destination charge. The Black Edition, based on the Pilot Elite, featured black wheels, badges, and trim, with a cabin adorned in black leather with red accents. The Pilot's rugged design was more suited for suburban environments, with the TrailSport trim offering off-road capabilities. Inside, the Pilot's design was practical, with quality materials, though the digital displays appeared dated. The Black Edition's custom look was distinctive, but the technology lacked a "wow factor."

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor with a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. It offered 32 miles of electric-only driving and averaged 27 mpg in hybrid mode. The SUV accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in five seconds. Charging was convenient, with options to reduce time using a 240-volt outlet. The XC90 featured multiple driving modes, including Pure, Power, Hybrid, and Off-Road, with up to 9.9 inches of ground clearance. However, the electric performance waned as the battery depleted, and the ride quality was firm on uneven surfaces. The handling was not particularly thrilling, with noticeable roll and dive during spirited driving.

The 2025 Honda Pilot was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, generating 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It offered multiple driving modes, including Normal, Econ, Snow, Tow, Sport, Trail, and Sand. The AWD system provided up to 7.3 inches of ground clearance, with torque vectoring for improved handling. The Pilot's acceleration was adequate, but the transmission occasionally hesitated. Fuel economy was underwhelming, averaging 20 mpg. The suspension provided a soft ride, but body motion was evident on mountain roads. The Pilot's handling was predictable, with well-calibrated steering and braking. Off-road capabilities were notable, especially in the TrailSport trim.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 offered a well-equipped interior with power-adjustable heated front seats, leather upholstery, and a four-zone climate control system. The panoramic glass roof added natural light, and higher trims included features like a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats. The front seats were comfortable, though the design could catch on clothing. The XC90 seated seven, with a tight third-row access but accommodating space. Cargo capacity was 65.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, expanding to 85.7 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2025 Honda Pilot excelled in form and function, with three rows of comfortable seating and practical storage solutions. The Black Edition's front row had a 10-way power driver seat but only a four-way passenger seat. The second row was roomy, with a removable center section for easy access to the third row. The third row was suitable for adults for short trips. The Pilot featured a triple-zone climate control system and a panoramic sunroof. Cargo space was 18.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.5 cubic feet with it folded, and 86.5 cubic feet with both rear rows down.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in technology, offering Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM were standard, with premium audio options available. The infotainment system was intuitive, though the digital instrumentation panel was less user-friendly. A head-up display and surround-view camera were optional.

The 2025 Honda Pilot had a 10.2-inch digital gauge panel and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included 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 Pilot featured CabinTalk for communication and a small head-up display.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was synonymous with safety, earning high crash-test ratings. It included standard safety features and Pilot Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system. However, Pilot Assist had limitations, struggling with certain road conditions and making errors during testing.

The 2025 Honda Pilot came with Honda Sensing safety features, including forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. The Black Edition had parking sensors and a multi-view camera system. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist had issues, but the Pilot earned top safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA.