2024 Volvo XC90 Vs. Honda Pilot: Which One Fits Your Family Best?

When choosing the right family SUV, space, safety, performance, and overall value are top priorities. The 2024 Volvo XC90 and the 2024 Honda Pilot both offer compelling features for families, but they cater to different needs and preferences. One leans into Scandinavian luxury and electrification, while the other delivers robust dependability, comfort, and practicality. If you’re navigating the decision between these two midsize SUVs, this comparison will help you determine which one truly fits your family best.

Performance and Powertrain Options

The 2024 Honda Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it offers responsive acceleration and a smooth ride, whether you’re on the highway or tackling rugged terrain. Available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, it provides a reliable and confident drive for daily commuting and weekend getaways alike.

In contrast, the 2024 Volvo XC90 offers three distinct powertrain choices. The B5 AWD features a mild-hybrid 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 247 horsepower, while the B6 adds a supercharger for a total of 295 horsepower. For maximum performance and eco-conscious appeal, the T8 plug-in hybrid delivers an impressive 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque, along with an all-electric range of 32 miles. These options cater to varying driving preferences, but the XC90’s premium powertrains may be more than most families require for everyday use.

Interior Space and Passenger Comfort

The Honda Pilot is built with family functionality in mind. It seats up to eight passengers and offers generous legroom across all three rows. With versatile seating configurations and a spacious cargo area, it easily adapts to busy family life. Tri-zone climate control, available leather-trimmed upholstery, and an intuitive layout make long trips more comfortable and enjoyable.

The Volvo XC90, while slightly smaller in seating capacity with room for seven, stands out with its refined and upscale interior. It features premium materials like Nappa leather, wood inlays, and minimalist Scandinavian design. While luxurious, its third row may feel tight for adults, and cargo space is somewhat limited compared to the Pilot. For families prioritizing comfort with a touch of sophistication, the XC90 has strong appeal—but the Pilot edges ahead in practicality.

Safety Features That Matter

Safety is non-negotiable in a family SUV, and both models deliver in this department. The 2024 Honda Pilot comes equipped with the Honda Sensing® suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation. These standard features work together to provide a strong sense of security on every drive.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 counters with its IntelliSafe suite, which includes similar technologies such as Pilot Assist (semi-autonomous driving), lane keeping aid, blind-spot monitoring, and collision avoidance systems. While both SUVs offer comprehensive safety systems, the XC90 includes a few advanced features at higher trims. Still, families will feel equally protected in either model, with safety being a standout strength for both.

Technology and Infotainment Experience

Inside the cabin, technology plays a major role in the driving experience. The Honda Pilot comes with a user-friendly infotainment system, supporting Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ across most trims. Higher trims add wireless smartphone charging, a head-up display, and a premium audio system, enhancing everyday connectivity.

The Volvo XC90 features a vertically oriented 9-inch touchscreen powered by Google, which includes voice commands, built-in Google Maps, and app integration. It’s sleek and responsive but can take some getting used to for drivers unfamiliar with tablet-style systems. Both models deliver on tech, but the Pilot’s ease of use and family-friendly functionality give it an advantage for households with multiple drivers or young passengers.

Efficiency and Everyday Driving

Fuel economy can impact long-term value, especially for busy families. The 2024 Honda Pilot delivers solid efficiency with an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. It strikes a balance between performance and practicality, especially for those who drive frequently in mixed conditions.

Meanwhile, the XC90’s fuel efficiency varies by configuration. The B5 achieves an estimated 23 mpg combined, while the T8 plug-in hybrid offers up to 58 MPGe when fully charged. The electrified options are appealing for eco-conscious families or those with access to charging stations. However, these benefits come at a higher purchase cost, which might not suit every household’s budget.

Schedule a Test Drive Today

If you’re searching for a family SUV that blends comfort, capability, and confidence in every mile, we invite you to explore the 2024 Honda Pilot with us at Frank Leta Honda. From school drop-offs to cross-country adventures, the Pilot is designed to fit your family’s needs with flexibility, safety, and reliability at its core.

We’re here to help you find the perfect trim, walk you through your options, and answer every question along the way. Schedule your test drive today with Frank Leta Honda and experience firsthand how the 2024 Honda Pilot delivers where it matters most—for you and your family.