When it comes to choosing a reliable and versatile SUV, two names that often top the list are the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Both vehicles have a strong reputation for quality, comfort, and performance.
In this article, we’ll take a close look at the Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander, comparing their key features, performance, safety ratings, and overall value to help you determine which SUV reigns supreme in this competitive segment.
The Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander have been battling it out for dominance in the mid-size SUV market for over two decades.
In the early years (late 1990s to early 2000s), the Honda Pilot emerged with a focus on comfortable rides and spacious interiors, while the Toyota Highlander entered the scene a few years later, offering a powerful V6 engine and optional all-wheel drive. Both SUVs prioritised passenger comfort and functionality for families.
The competition heated up in the mid-2000s to late 2010s as both automakers added features like third-row seating, entertainment systems, and advanced safety technology.
Below is a quick sales data comparison for both vehicles:
| Sales Metric | Toyota Highlander | Honda Pilot |
| Overall Sales (since 2005) | Higher | Lower |
| Peak US Sales Year | 2022 (302,323 units) | 2004 (217,211 units) |
| Recent Sales Trend | Decreasing | Decreasing |
The Honda Pilot leaned towards a more powerful driving experience, while the Toyota Highlander emphasized fuel efficiency and a smooth ride. A significant shift came when Toyota introduced a hybrid Highlander, boasting significantly better gas mileage compared to the Pilot
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Honda Pilot vs Toyota Highlander in terms of specifications
While both the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander compete for the mid-size SUV crown, their technical specifications reveal distinct approaches:
- Engine: The Pilot boasts a single 3.5L V6 engine churning out 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the Highlander offers a choice: a 3.5L V6 generating 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque or a hybrid powertrain combining a 2.5L four-cylinder engine with electric motors for a combined 243 horsepower. The Pilot prioritises raw power, while the Highlander offers a fuel-efficient hybrid option.
- Transmission: Both SUVs utilise automatic transmissions but with different approaches. The Pilot sticks with a traditional 10-speed automatic, while the Highlander uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in gasoline and hybrid models. CVTs can offer smoother acceleration but may be less engaging for some drivers.
- Fuel Economy: The Pilot’s focus on power translates to lower fuel efficiency. It combines an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway / 22 mpg. The Highlander’s gasoline model fares slightly better at 21 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined. However, the hybrid Highlander shines with impressive figures of 36 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 36 mpg combined.
- Drivetrain: Both SUVs offer front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available as an option.
- Dimensions: The Pilot boasts a larger footprint with a wheelbase of 113.8 inches compared to the Highlander’s 112.2 inches. This translates to slightly more interior space, particularly in the third row for the Pilot. However, the Highlander’s smaller size might benefit manoeuvrability in tight spaces.
To get detailed information on the specifications of any vehicle, the VIN decoder is surely your go-to tool that will enable you to search and find all your vehicle’s specifications. Here is a table summarising the differences:
| Category | Honda Pilot | Toyota Highlander |
| Seating Capacity | 8 | 8 |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | 20 city / 28 highway | 21 city / 29 highway |
| Horsepower | 289 hp | 295 hp |
| Cargo Space (cu ft) | 162 (behind 3rd row) / 83.9 (all rows) | 160.8 (behind 3rd row) / 84.3 (all rows) |
| Starting MSRP | $37,020 | $36,250 |
Technology and Infotainment
The Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander compete in technology and infotainment but cater to user preferences differently. Both offer standard features like touchscreen infotainment systems, smartphone connectivity, and Bluetooth. However, the Pilot tends to offer a more user-friendly system with physical buttons alongside touchscreen controls, even on base models.
Screen size is a point of difference. The Pilot offers two options, a 7-inch or a 9-inch display, depending on trim level. The Highlander boasts a larger standard 8-inch display with the option for a massive 12.3-inch unit on higher trims. Toyota’s Entune system, while feature-rich on higher trims with navigation and a Wi-Fi hotspot, can be more complex to navigate with its heavy reliance on touchscreen controls.
Interior Comfort and Space
Both the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander offer comfortable seating for up to eight passengers but with some key differences. The Pilot shines with its slightly more spacious third row and a unique removable second-row middle seat, perfect for maximizing cargo flexibility. The Highlander offers a traditional folding second-row bench and a slightly tighter third-row for adults.
Cargo space or storage space is comparable in both SUVs, with around 18-16 cubic feet behind the third row and expanding to nearly 48 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Pilot’s removable second-row seat adds an edge for bulky items. When it comes to interior materials, both offer a comfortable experience with higher trims boasting nicer finishes.
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Price and Trim Levels
The battle between the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander extends to their pricing strategies and trim levels:
Honda Pilot:
Price Range: The Pilot starts at a slightly lower MSRP compared to the Highlander, typically around $37,000 for the base LX trim and reaching up to around $50,500 for the top-of-the-line Touring or Black Edition trims.
Trim Levels: The Pilot offers a simpler trim structure typically consisting of LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and a sportier Black Edition trim. Each trim level builds upon the features of the previous one, offering upgrades in technology, comfort features, and driver-assistance systems.
Toyota Highlander:
Price Range: The Highlander starts at a slightly higher MSRP than the Pilot, typically around $39,000 for the base LE trim and reaching up to around $54,280 for the top-of-the-line Platinum trim with the hybrid powertrain.
Trim Levels: The Highlander boasts a more extensive trim structure, including LE, Hybrid LE, XLE, Hybrid XLE, Limited, Hybrid Limited, and the top-tier Platinum trim. This wider selection allows for more specific feature choices depending on your needs and budget. Notably, the Highlander offers a hybrid option on most trims, impacting both price and fuel efficiency.
Who Wins the Price Battle?
The answer depends on your priorities:
For a lower starting price and a simpler trim structure, the Honda Pilot might be a better choice.
If you prioritize fuel efficiency and are willing to pay slightly more, the Highlander’s hybrid options across various trim levels offer significant fuel savings. Consider how much you value fuel efficiency and the features offered at each trim level before making your decision.
Off-Roading Capabilities
While both the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander are SUVs, they aren’t designed for conquering challenging off-road terrain.
They offer similar ground clearance of around 8 inches, enough for light-duty adventures on gravel roads or well-maintained dirt trails. All-wheel drive is available on all trims for both vehicles, but these systems prioritize all-weather traction over true off-road capability.
Neither the Pilot nor the Highlander boasts impressive approach/departure angles or locking differentials, features crucial for navigating steep inclines and uneven surfaces. Their suspension systems are tuned for a smooth ride on pavement, not for tackling rocks and rough terrain.
The Honda Pilot offers a marginally more rugged option with the TrailSport trim, but the core limitations for serious off-roading remain. If your adventures are limited to occasional dirt roads, either SUV with AWD might work. However, for dedicated off-roading, consider exploring SUVs specifically designed for those challenges.
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Fuel Efficiency and Sustainability
Fuel efficiency and sustainability are key factors when choosing a mid-size SUV. Here’s how the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander compare:
The Pilot prioritizes power with its V6 engine, resulting in lower fuel economy (19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined) and higher CO2 emissions.
The Highlander offers a gasoline option with slightly better mileage (21 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined) but the hybrid version reigns supreme with impressive figures of 36 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 36 mpg combined, significantly reducing emissions.
While fuel efficiency is crucial, sustainability goes beyond just mileage. Both manufacturers are making strides towards eco-friendly production practices. Additionally, a well-maintained SUV that lasts for years reduces the need for new vehicle production, which benefits the environment. Both the Pilot and Highlander are known for their reliability.
The most sustainable choice depends on your driving habits. If you prioritize power upfront, the Pilot might be an option, but consider long-term fuel costs and emissions. The gasoline Highlander offers a balance, while the hybrid is the clear champion for sustainability. Researching both SUVs and your driving habits will help you choose the most eco-friendly option that aligns with your needs.
When comparing the Highlander Hybrid and the 2.4-liter engine option in the second row of SUVs like the Highlander vs. the 2023 Honda Pilot, key differences emerge. The Highlander Hybrid stands out for its eco-friendly performance, blending efficiency with power seamlessly.
On the other hand, the 2.4-liter engine in the second row of choices offers a balance of fuel economy and capable performance. In the Highlander vs. 2023 Honda Pilot comparison, these nuances in engine choices and hybrid technology can greatly influence the driving experience and overall satisfaction for SUV enthusiasts.
Honda Pilot vs 2024 Toyota Highlander
The 2024 Toyota Highlander introduces the impressive Grand Highlander edition, setting a new standard in luxury and capability. The Grand Highlander not only elevates the Highlander lineup but also enhances its towing capacity, making it a top choice for those needing to tow trailers, boats, or other recreational vehicles. With the Grand Highlander, Toyota combines advanced technology, refined design, and powerful towing capabilities, ensuring a premium driving experience for those seeking both style and utility in their SUV.
2023 Toyota Highlander vs Toyota Grand Highlander
The difference between the Toyota Highlander and the Toyota Grand Highlander lies in their levels of luxury and towing capabilities. The Toyota Grand Highlander, introduced in 2024, represents a higher tier of sophistication and utility compared to the standard Highlander model.
Specifically, the Grand Highlander boasts enhanced towing capacity, making it ideal for those with towing needs such as trailers or boats. This model also integrates advanced technology and refined design elements, offering a premium driving experience that sets it apart from the standard Highlander.
In the realm of three-row SUVs, the competition is fierce between the 2024 Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander. However, the introduction of the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander adds a new dimension to this rivalry. With its advanced features and upscale design, the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander challenges the established dominance of the Honda Pilot.
Looking ahead, the upcoming 2025 Honda Pilot promises to bring further innovations to the three-row SUV segment, setting the stage for an exciting battle of capabilities and comfort.
Despite the advancements, the 2023 Honda Pilot continues to be a strong contender in the three-row SUV market, offering a blend of reliability and spaciousness that has made it a favorite among families and adventurers alike.
