If you’ve ever taken a close look at an Acura and thought, “This feels a lot like a Honda,” you’re not imagining things. That’s because Acura is Honda’s luxury division, and beneath the leather seats and performance upgrades, the two brands share a lot more than just a family name.
From engines and transmissions to interior components and chassis designs, Acuras and Hondas have plenty in common. But does that mean they’re identical? Not quite. Let’s take a closer look at where they overlap—and where they differ.
A Shared Foundation
Most Acuras are built on the same platforms as their Honda counterparts. For example, the Acura ILX shares much of its DNA with the Honda Civic, while the Acura MDX and RDX are closely related to the Honda Pilot and CR-V, respectively. That means under the surface, many of the structural elements—like the frame, suspension design, and even wheelbase—can be nearly identical.
In practical terms, that translates to similar handling characteristics, shared engine configurations, and in many cases, interchangeable hardware components.
Engines and Transmissions
One of the most significant areas of overlap is in the engine bay. Many Acura models use the same engines found in Honda vehicles, especially when it comes to the core architecture. For example, the 3.5-liter V6 used in the Acura MDX has strong similarities to the one used in the Honda Pilot and Ridgeline. However, Acura typically tunes these engines for more horsepower, and may pair them with upgraded transmissions or different gear ratios.
That means while the base engine may be the same, the performance—and sometimes the longevity of internal components—can vary slightly. Still, if you’re maintaining an Acura, many of the parts used during service (like filters, belts, and gaskets) are straight from the Honda parts bin.
Brakes, Filters, and Other Maintenance Items
When it comes to day-to-day maintenance—like oil filters, brake pads, air filters, and spark plugs—you’ll often find that Acura and Honda use identical or nearly identical parts. This is actually a benefit for Acura owners, since it can make regular service more affordable. It also means that independent repair shops like ours don’t need rare or overly specialized tools to work on most Acuras.
Even many of the fluids—transmission fluid, brake fluid, and engine coolant—are the same between brands. That consistency helps simplify maintenance and cuts down on confusion during repairs.
Interior and Tech Differences
This is where the brands start to diverge more noticeably. While you might find similar seat frames or switchgear behind the dashboard, Acuras are designed to feel more premium. That means upgraded materials, additional insulation for a quieter cabin, and more advanced infotainment or driver-assistance systems.
You might notice that something like the power window motor or door handle feels familiar—that’s because in many cases, it is the same part used in a Honda. But the way it’s wrapped in soft-touch materials or integrated into a more upscale design gives Acura the luxury edge.
Electronics and Software
While mechanical parts often overlap, Acura tends to use different electronic modules, software, and interfaces—even when the core function is the same. For example, both brands might use similar radar units for adaptive cruise control, but the calibration and user interface will differ. This also means Acura vehicles may require updated software or diagnostic tools that are specific to the brand, particularly when working on tech-related systems.
It’s something we keep in mind during service—especially when performing resets or working with driver-assist features.
Cost of Ownership
Because of the parts and engineering overlap, maintaining an Acura often isn’t much more expensive than maintaining a comparable Honda—especially if you go to a shop that understands both brands. The biggest cost differences tend to come from optional features, like all-wheel drive systems, turbocharged engines, or high-end electronics, which can require more specialized repairs when they age.
That said, many Acura owners are pleasantly surprised to learn that routine maintenance costs are very similar to what they’d pay for a high-end Honda.
RM Automotive – Acura and Honda Specialists in Northridge, CA
At RM Automotive in Northridge, CA, we’ve been servicing Hondas and Acuras for years, and we know the details that matter when it comes to both. Whether you’re driving a Civic or a TLX, we understand the shared engineering—and the unique features—that make each model tick. Book your next service with us and get expert care, no matter which badge is on your grille.