Honda Pilot vs Toyota Highlander: Which SUV Should You Choose?

When it comes to midsize SUVs, the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander stand out as top contenders. Both models offer comfort, reliability, and advanced features. But which one is the better fit for you? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Features and Specifications

Honda Pilot Overview

• Engine: 3.5L V6, 285 horsepower

• Seating: Up to 8 passengers

• Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs

• Cargo Space: 18.5 cubic feet behind the third row

• Key Features: Honda Sensing safety suite, spacious cabin, excellent resale value

The Honda Pilot is a family-focused SUV with ample interior space and advanced safety features. It’s ideal for long road trips or daily commutes.

Toyota Highlander Overview

• Engine: 2.4L turbocharged, 265 horsepower (standard model)

• Seating: Up to 8 passengers

• Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs

• Cargo Space: 16 cubic feet behind the third row

• Key Features: Toyota Safety Sense, hybrid option, sleek design

The Toyota Highlander offers versatility and a hybrid variant for improved fuel efficiency. It’s a great choice for eco-conscious families.

Interior and Comfort

Honda Pilot Interior Highlights

• Pros:

  • Best-in-class passenger space

  • Comfortable third-row seating

  • Tri-zone climate control

• Cons:

  • Limited luxury options in lower trims

  • Infotainment system feels slightly outdated

Toyota Highlander Interior Highlights

• Pros:

  • Premium materials in higher trims

  • Quiet cabin even at highway speeds

  • Hybrid models offer additional tech features

• Cons:

  • Third-row is cramped for adults

  • Slightly less cargo space compared to the Pilot

Performance and Handling

Driving Experience

Honda Pilot

• Smooth and composed ride

• Handles well for an SUV of its size

• Fuel Efficiency: 20 MPG city, 27 MPG highway

Toyota Highlander

• Agile and responsive steering

• Slightly less power in the standard engine

• Fuel Efficiency: 22 MPG city, 29 MPG highway (hybrid available)

People Are Always Asking

1. Which SUV is better for large families?
   The Honda Pilot offers more spacious third-row seating and better overall passenger comfort.

2. Which model is more fuel-efficient?
   The Toyota Highlander hybrid option provides superior fuel economy compared to the Honda Pilot.

3. Are both SUVs reliable?
   Yes, both Honda and Toyota have excellent reputations for building durable and reliable vehicles.

Safety Features

Honda Pilot

• Honda Sensing suite includes:

  • Adaptive Cruise Control

  • Lane Keeping Assist

  • Collision Mitigation Braking System

• Received high crash test ratings from the NHTSA

Toyota Highlander

• Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ includes:

  • Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection

  • Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist

  • Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

• Consistently earns top safety ratings from IIHS

Real Customer Reviews

Alex Collantes’ Opinion

“The Toyota Highlander hybrid really stood out for me with its incredible fuel efficiency and quiet ride. However, the Honda Pilot’s spacious interior is hard to beat for family road trips.”

Potential Drawbacks

Honda Pilot

• Slightly higher starting price compared to competitors

• Infotainment system could use an update

Toyota Highlander

• Cramped third-row seating

• Standard engine feels underpowered compared to the Pilot

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the Honda Pilot good for towing?
  Yes, it offers up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity, ideal for small trailers or boats.

• Does the Toyota Highlander have a hybrid option?
  Absolutely! The Highlander hybrid is a top choice for eco-conscious drivers.

• Which SUV has more advanced tech?
  The Highlander hybrid includes more cutting-edge features, but the Pilot offers a user-friendly interface.

Final Verdict

Both the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander excel in different areas. The Pilot shines with its spacious interior and smooth ride, while the Highlander’s hybrid option and advanced tech make it a strong competitor. Your choice will depend on whether you prioritize interior space or fuel efficiency.

References

1. Honda Official Website: www.honda.com

2. Toyota Official Website: www.toyota.com

3. NHTSA Ratings: www.nhtsa.gov

4. IIHS Safety Reports: www.iihs.org