Well the engine are the same at least up until last year when the MDX got a 20 hp boost. I do agree that the MDX does have a little better interior and the sunroof is always a plus but for the extra 6 grand difference I would hope so there is a difference. As far as the suspension that I have no idea on, never really driven a MDX more than a test drive.
Although one perk I do like about the Pilot is the foldable rear third row seating. Does the MDX have that, I cant remmeber.

 

2004 MDX Specs......

Acura, Honda's luxury division, says that the 2004 MDX SUV, which just went on sale, will be priced at $36,400. The MDX with Touring Package, which adds a roof rack, premium Acura/Bose Music System and other additional features, will be priced at $39,000. The MDX with Touring Package comes with two available factory options: the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition priced at $2,200 and the Acura DVD Entertainment System priced at $1,500.

Acura said in a press release that, "despite numerous improvements," 2004 MDX prices reflect a "modest" 1.8 percent increase, or $700, compared to last year based on a sales-weighted average.

The 2004 MDX has a new dual exhaust system adding five extra horsepower for a total output of 265 horsepower. Styling enhancements include a redesigned front fascia with a more integrated chin spoiler, the addition of satin chrome finish trim front and rear, and a sportier taillight assembly. Two new exterior colors, Aspen Pearl White and Burnished Bronze Metallic are added for 2004.

New features for 2004 Acura MDX:

Output increased to 265 horsepower at 5800 rpm
Torque increased to 253 lb-ft between 3500 and 5000 rpm
Side curtain airbags with rollover sensors
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Redesigned front fascia
Integrated chin spoiler
Dual exhaust
Satin chrome finish front and rear trim
Redesigned taillights
New projector-type headlights
Acoustic windshield glass
New colors: Aspen Pearl White, Burnished Bronze Metallic
New wheel design (Touring Package)
Power lumbar support on driver's seat (Touring Package)
Brushed metal-look instrument panel trim
Enhanced Acura/Bose Music System (Touring Package)
Ambient foot lights and welcome illumination
Enhanced functionality of second row seat (40 percent slide increase)
Enhanced leather seat material and inserts

 

Errr the Pilot in the same class as the MDX?? Somehow im not getting this picture, like size wise or what?

 

RUGBY, I just traded in my S2000 for a new 2004 Midnight Blue EX-L Pilot. I absolutely love it! I test drove a 4Runner, and there is no comparison in terms of ride and room. The S2000 was a great car, but not very practical as a daily driver for someone 6'3" and living in the midwest. Here's a few pics:

 

A couple of months ago, I was in the same boat as you. It was between a 4Runner Sport or a Pilot. Although 4Runner was selling at invoice or a little above, Toyota dealers in my area were sharks so, I shyd away and considered other cars. I then considered the Murano. It was a nice car but for the price the dealer wanted, I figured a few $$$ more, I could get a third seat. I took a look at the Montero, but did not like the styling, as well as, the resale value. Then I broke down and bought an 03 MDX. Nice buy. If you compare the MDX to the Pilot, MDX looks so, much better but you have to pay the price. Nothing against the Pilot but my wife did not like the styling specially the front and the automatic shifter located on the steering wheel area. If it was up to me, I would have bought the Pilot because of the price saving. In my area, an EX-L was selling close to $31,000. I bought the base MDX for $34,200 (the lowest price), $2000 over dealer's invoice. I did mention to Acura dealers around my area about this offer, and all of them cannot match the price and advised me to jump on it. My advise, whatever you decide, Pilot and if you do not care much for the looks, Pilot is more bang for the buck. I would consider the 04 MDX if you can get it as close to invoice, as possible. Especially with the new refinements (I have not seen it), it's a definite plus.

 

MDX / Pilot = AWD Minivan

4Runner = Truck

The other cute-utes you mention I would toss out.

The decision comes down to where and for what you will use the vehicle.

 

Arnt all SUV's just big manly minivans.. or you forget that a lot of mini Vans still come with
"truck" suspension, not s much as they used to but they still do

 

These days an increasing number are, however the 4runner is still a body on frame "truck" design, as is the Land Rover, Durango and a few others.

For reasons I assume economic car makers have found it easier to slap taller bodies and AWD systems on existing car platforms and call them SUV's. Toyota with the Camry based Highlander and Honda with the odyssey based Pilot / MDX.

To me at least the Pilot and MDX don't fall far from the tree, they look like minivans.

For some folks, myself included, real 4x4 capabilities are neccessary and so the car / minivan based cute-utes and the likes are out. For many folks however who are just looking for the added room, they are great choices.

The trade-off is on road comfort and handling for off-road capability. I have seen MDX's and Pilots stuck in not much more than 6 inches of snow, however this is probably more a result of the tires than anything else. My neighbors beater 91 subaru will go just about anywhere in the stuff with the snow tires on.

 

Really appreciate all the input. As for use, station car, an occasional run down to home depot, and most importantly, fitting 4 people and 4 sets of golf clubs. In looking back at my initial list, I don't think the small SUVs will meet the last objective. Murano may be tight so I will have to stay in the mid-size SUV bracket. Also, if this winter is anything like last, having AWD is a big plus.

I going to do some test drives this weekend.

I hope I can get decent money for my S. (MY00, 14kmiles, Silverstone/Red).

Michael

 

Not too many Minivans can do this:

Please DELETE.

See below post.