Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander: A Comprehensive Comparison
When choosing a crossover SUV, the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander stand out as two of the most popular options. Both models deliver exceptional value, performance, and reliability, but understanding their key differences can help you decide which one suits your needs. In this comparison, we’ll explore aspects like performance, interior, safety, fuel efficiency, cargo space, technology, and overall value. Visit Toyota Of Renton, part of the O’Brien Auto Group to test drive a brand new Toyota Highlander today.
Performance
The Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander both offer capable engines that balance power and efficiency.
-
Toyota Highlander: Equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, the Highlander delivers 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine offers smooth acceleration and a responsive driving experience. Additionally, Toyota of Renton, part of the O’Brien Auto Group, provides hybrid options for the Highlander, combining a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with electric motors to achieve excellent fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.
-
Honda Pilot: The Pilot features a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Its robust powertrain is ideal for those seeking a bit more horsepower for highway driving or towing. The Pilot’s nine-speed automatic transmission enhances its ride quality and handling.
Interior and Comfort
When it comes to interior design, both SUVs excel in providing spacious and comfortable cabins.
-
Toyota Highlander: The Highlander’s interior emphasizes modern design and high-quality materials. It offers seating for up to eight passengers with optional captain’s chairs in the second row. Its technology package includes a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlayand Android Auto compatibility, giving passengers easy access to entertainment and navigation features.
-
Honda Pilot: The Pilot focuses on functionality, with generous headroom and legroom in all three rows. It can also seat up to eight passengers, with captain’s chairs available for a seven-passenger configuration. While its standard 7-inch touchscreen is smaller than the Highlander’s, the Pilot offers a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls.
Safety Features
Both the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot prioritize safety, making them excellent choices for families.
-
Toyota Highlander: The Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, lane tracing assist, and pre-collision systems. The Highlander also offers optional blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
-
Honda Pilot: The Pilot includes Honda Sensing® as standard, which features adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Pilot also incorporates features like blind-spot monitoring and traffic sign recognition for enhanced safety.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is an important factor for many crossover SUV buyers, and both models perform well in this category.
-
Toyota Highlander: The hybrid version of the Highlander shines with an impressive EPA-estimated 36 MPG in combined city and highway driving. The gas-only version delivers 25 MPG combined, which is still competitive.
-
Honda Pilot: With its V6 engine, the Pilot achieves an EPA-estimated 22 MPG combined. While this is slightly lower than the Highlander, it’s still reasonable for its class.
Cargo Space
Cargo space is crucial for families or anyone who needs to carry significant gear.
-
Toyota Highlander: The Highlander offers 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with both rear rows folded down. This makes it versatile for various storage needs.
-
Honda Pilot: The Pilot provides a bit more space, with 18.6 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 87 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. For buyers prioritizing maximum cargo capacity, the Pilot has the edge.
Ride Quality and Handling
Both SUVs deliver a smooth ride, but their handling characteristics differ slightly.
-
Toyota Highlander: Known for its composed and confident ride, the Highlander excels in urban environments and long highway drives. Its suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing road imperfections effectively.
-
Honda Pilot: The Pilot’s ride quality leans toward sporty, with responsive steering and agile handling. It’s a great choice for drivers who enjoy a more dynamic driving experience.
Technology and Connectivity
Modern technology features are standard in both the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander.
-
Toyota Highlander: The Highlander’s standout features include its large touchscreen, wireless charging pad, and available JBL premium audio system. Additional connectivity options, such as multiple USB ports and a Wi-Fi hotspot, make it a tech-savvy choice.
-
Honda Pilot: While the Pilot’s standard technology offerings are slightly less advanced, it includes essential features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offer a larger touchscreen and additional tech upgrades like a rear-seat entertainment system.
Warranty and Value
Both vehicles come with competitive warranty packages and strong reputations for reliability.
-
Toyota Highlander: Backed by Toyota’s comprehensive warranty, including a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, the Highlander offers excellent long-term value. Toyota’s reputation for reliability further enhances its appeal.
-
Honda Pilot: Honda offers similar warranty coverage with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Pilot’s durability and resale value make it a smart investment.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander ultimately comes down to your priorities. If you’re looking for hybrid options, advanced technology, and a refined interior, the Toyota Highlander—available at Toyota of Renton, part of the O’Brien Auto Group—may be your ideal choice. On the other hand, if you value slightly more cargo space and a sportier ride, the Honda Pilot could be the better fit. Both models excel in delivering performance, safety, and reliability, making them standout options in the crossover SUV category.
*Penned by AI, polished by humans
Categories:
New Inventory
