Honda Pilot vs Toyota Highlander (2026 Models): The Toyota Highlander edges out in fuel efficiency at 21/28 MPG city/highway, compared to the Pilot's 19/27 MPG, with hybrids boosting it further to ~36 MPG combined. The Pilot offers superior interior and cargo space (18.6 cu ft behind third row, up to 87 cu ft max; more third-row legroom at 31.9") versus the Highlander's tighter 16 cu ft. Pilot's 285-hp V6 delivers peppier performance and quicker acceleration than Highlander's 265-hp turbo-four. For families with kids, car seats, and long trips, Pilot excels in flexible seating (up to 8), easier third-row access, and vacuum features. Highlander provides better value through reliability (Consumer Reports 77+ score), hybrid efficiency, and lower long-term costs, despite similar pricing (~$40K starting).
Honda Pilot
- Engine: 3.5L V6 – 285 hp
- Fuel Efficiency: 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined (FWD); 19/25/21 (AWD)
- Performance: Smooth, refined ride with strong low-end torque and a traditional V6 feel
- Cargo Space: Class-leading 111.8 cu ft behind the first row
- Towing: 5,000 lb when properly equipped + dedicated Tow mode
- Third-Row Comfort: Genuinely adult-friendly (32.5 in legroom)
- Space: Expansive interior with 158.4 cu ft passenger volume; 18.6 cu ft behind third row; seats up to 8 with flexible configurations for car seats and easy third-row access.
- Comfort: Plush, supportive seats with standard heated front seats and power-adjustable passenger seat; quiet cabin and smooth highway ride; optional ventilated seats in higher trims.
- Practicality: Minivan-like versatility with durable materials, hidden storage, cargo hooks, and off-road capable TrailSport trim (8.3 in ground clearance); standard AWD optional.
- Safety: Honda Sensing suite standard (adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, auto braking); strong crash scores but slightly behind in NHTSA side-impact; Traffic Jam Assist for hands-free highway driving.
- Reliability: Excellent long-term durability and resale value; timing belt requires periodic replacement; J.D. Power scores high but trails Toyota slightly.
- Best for: Families who need maximum interior room, real third-row usability, huge cargo area, and strong towing.
Toyota Highlander
- Engine Options: – 2.4L turbo 4-cylinder (gas) – 265 hp – 2.5L hybrid – 243 net hp
- Fuel Efficiency: – Gas: 22 city / 29 hwy / 25 combined (FWD); 21/28/24 (AWD) – Hybrid: 36 city / 35 hwy / 36 combined
- Performance: Punchy turbo gas or ultra-smooth hybrid power delivery
- Cargo Space: 84.3 cu ft max (gas); slightly less in hybrid
- Towing: 5,000 lb (gas only); 3,500 lb on hybrid
- Third-Row Comfort: Tight (28.0 in legroom) — mostly kid-friendly
- Space: 141.8 cu ft passenger volume; 16 cu ft behind third row; seats up to 8 but third row best for kids; hybrid slightly reduces cargo.
- Comfort: Luxurious, modern interior with premium materials; optional heated/ventilated seats and 8-way power passenger seat; agile handling and quiet ride.
- Practicality: Easy to park and maneuver (shorter length); fold-flat seats and standard AWD on hybrids; versatile for urban use but less rugged than Pilot.
- Safety: Toyota Safety Sense standard (pre-collision, lane tracing, road sign assist); superior NHTSA front/side crash scores; Secondary Collision Brake standard.
- Reliability: Top-tier with low maintenance (timing chain vs. belt); leads J.D. Power surveys for 3-year-old vehicles; legendary resale and longevity.
- Best for: Buyers wanting excellent fuel economy, hybrid availability, easier parking/maneuvering, and Toyota reliability.
Quick Comparison Table (2026 AWD Models)
|
Feature |
Honda Pilot |
Highlander Gas |
Highlander Hybrid |
|
Max Cargo |
111.8 cu ft |
84.3 cu ft |
~82–84 cu ft |
|
Max Towing |
5,000 lb |
5,000 lb |
3,500 lb |
|
Combined MPG |
21 |
24 |
36 |
|
3rd-Row Legroom |
32.5 in (adult OK) |
28.0 in (kids only) |
28.0 in (kids only) |
|
Overall Length |
200.2 in |
194.9 in |
194.9 in |
|
Passenger Volume |
158.4 cu ft |
141.8 cu ft |
141.8 cu ft |
|
Comfort Highlights |
Standard heated seats; smooth ride |
Premium materials; optional ventilated seats |
Ultra-smooth hybrid; agile handling |
|
Practicality |
TrailSport off-road; 8 seats flexible |
Easy maneuver; fold-flat seats |
Urban-friendly; hybrid efficiency |
|
Safety Rating (NHTSA) |
5-star overall; strong ADAS |
5-star overall; superior side-impact |
5-star overall; Secondary Collision Brake |
|
Reliability (J.D. Power) |
High (trails Toyota slightly) |
Top-ranked for longevity |
Top-ranked for longevity |
Honda Pilot vs Toyota Highlander - Which Family SUV Wins?
Quick Overview of Both SUVs
The Honda Pilot vs Toyota Highlander debate matters for families seeking space. Both deliver three-row seating for up to eight passengers. The Pilot offers a V6 engine with stronger power output. The Highlander features a turbocharged four-cylinder engine for efficiency. Which SUV fits your family best depends on your priorities.
The Pilot starts at a mid-range price point. Highlander sits at a similar starting price with better fuel savings. Both SUVs feature all-wheel drive options and front-wheel drive configurations. They include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features. Your choice depends on whether you want power or fuel economy.
Winner: Tie
Performance and Power Comparison
Engine and Powertrain Breakdown
The Honda Pilot comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower. It delivers 262 pound-feet of torque paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission. This engine feels responsive when accelerating or merging on highways. The Toyota Highlander offers a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It generates 265 horsepower with higher torque at 310 pound-feet. Both SUVs offer all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive options for different driving conditions.
The Pilot feels more muscular during acceleration. The Highlander feels smoother during everyday city driving. V6 engines typically feel more powerful when towing heavy trailers.
Winner: Honda Pilot
Towing Ability and Driving Feel
The Honda Pilot vs Toyota Highlander differs in towing capacity significantly. The Pilot can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. The Highlander manages around 3,500 pounds as well, matching the Pilot closely.
For occasional camping trips or boat towing, both work well. The Pilot feels more responsive when carrying heavier loads. The turbocharged Highlander handles everyday driving without strain smoothly. Most families rarely tow heavy items regularly anyway.
Winner: Honda Pilot
Fuel Economy and Running Costs
The Toyota Highlander achieves around 20-21 miles per gallon in combined driving. The Honda Pilot reaches approximately 19-20 miles per gallon combined. This means Highlander saves money over long ownership periods.
For students thinking about long road trips, Highlander costs less at gas stations. The Pilot consumes more fuel but offers more horsepower for those who want it. Running a Pilot costs roughly 5-10 percent more annually in fuel expenses. The Highlander makes sense for budget-conscious families prioritizing savings.
Gas prices affect your decision more than you might realize. Long commutes make fuel economy important for wallet health. City driving sees larger fuel economy differences between these two SUVs. Highway driving minimizes the gap between their fuel consumption rates.
Winner: Toyota Highlander
Space, Comfort, and Practical Features
Passenger Room and Third Row Comfort
Both the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander seat eight passengers comfortably. The Pilot offers four additional inches of legroom in the third row. For teenagers or adults sitting in back, Pilot feels less cramped obviously. Adults regularly using the third row prefer the Pilot significantly.
The second-row seating slides forward easily in both vehicles. Magic Slide seats in the Pilot make access better for quick trips. Both SUVs fold third-row seats flat for cargo space quickly.
Front seat comfort matters for long drives with family. The Highlander front seats feel supportive during extended driving. The Pilot front seats provide excellent lumbar support for everyone.
Winner: Honda Pilot
Cargo Space and Storage
The Honda Pilot offers 84.9 cubic feet of cargo space maximum. The Toyota Highlander provides 83.7 cubic feet when all seats fold down. The difference matters when hauling sports equipment or moving supplies.
For road trips with luggage for everyone, Pilot wins space battles. Grocery shopping becomes easier with extra trunk room available. Strollers, coolers, and camping gear fit better in the Pilot. The Highlander still offers generous space for most family needs.
Under-seat storage appears in both vehicles for valuables. Door pockets hold drinks and phones conveniently in both SUVs. The Pilot feels slightly more spacious overall for growing families.
Winner: Honda Pilot
Interior Features and Technology
Both the Honda Pilot vs Toyota Highlander include modern infotainment systems standard. Apple CarPlay connects seamlessly to both vehicles for navigation. Android Auto works flawlessly on smartphones in both SUVs. Touchscreen sizes range from 7 to 10.5 inches depending on trim levels.
Premium trims add leather seats and heated steering wheels. The Pilot offers more color options for interior customization. Highlander focuses on practical durability over aesthetic variety. Both have excellent sound insulation for comfortable conversations.
Climate control zones keep front and rear passengers comfortable separately. USB ports appear throughout both vehicles for charging devices. Wireless charging pads appear in higher trims of both models.
Winner: Tie
Safety, Reliability, and Owner Satisfaction
Safety Ratings and Features
Both vehicles earn five-star safety ratings from crash test agencies. The Pilot features a rigid chassis that protects occupants effectively. The Highlander meets all modern safety standards comprehensively. They both include lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking.
Blind-spot monitoring appears standard on both SUVs for safety. Rear cross-traffic alerts warn drivers about approaching obstacles. Both feature stability control for slippery road conditions automatically. The three-row design protects children in back seats well.
Airbags deploy strategically throughout both vehicle cabins. The Pilot has slightly more airbags in some configurations. Highlander focuses on proven safety technologies rather than extras.
Winner: Tie
Reliability and Long-Term Ownership
Honda and Toyota both rank among the most reliable automakers globally. The Pilot typically lasts 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. The Highlander reaches similar mileage without major issues occurring. Both require regular oil changes and tire rotations for longevity.
Engine reliability favors both brands over American manufacturers significantly. Transmissions in both vehicles rarely cause problems during ownership. The Pilot V6 has a strong track record for durability. The Highlander turbocharged engine feels proven and dependable overall.
Resale value remains strong for both brands in used markets. Insurance costs run similar for comparable trim levels and coverage. Maintenance costs stay affordable compared to luxury brand SUVs. Parts availability for both vehicles remains excellent nationwide.
Winner: Tie
See More : Toyota highlander pros and cons
Which SUV Should You Choose?
Choose the Honda Pilot If You Want...
More power and acceleration for highway merging confidently. Additional space in the third row for adult passengers. Maximum cargo room for family road trips and camping. A V6 engine that feels more responsive overall. Better resale value in the used market eventually.
The Pilot suits families who value performance and space equally. You want a vehicle that feels more powerful during daily driving. Regular towing or hauling motivates your Pilot choice strongly.
Choose the Toyota Highlander If You Want...
Better fuel economy for saving money on gas. Lower running costs throughout vehicle ownership years. A turbocharged engine that feels smooth and refined. More affordable starting price compared to the Pilot. Simpler, proven turbocharged technology in vehicles.
The Highlander suits budget-conscious families seeking reliability. You prioritize fuel savings over maximum interior space. Daily city driving benefits from Highlander efficiency more noticeably.
FAQ About honda pilot vs toyota highlander
What makes these SUVs different from each other mainly?
The Pilot offers more power and interior space compared to the Highlander. The Highlander achieves better fuel economy and lower prices starting out. Both provide excellent safety and reliability for family driving needs.
Which SUV keeps its value better after purchase?
Both maintain strong resale values in used markets equally. Honda and Toyota vehicles depreciate slower than most brands generally. Your specific mileage and condition matter most for value retention.
Do both SUVs come with good warranties covering repairs?
The Pilot includes three years or 36,000 miles basic coverage. Highlander provides similar warranty terms at purchase time. Extended warranties appear optional for both vehicles from dealers.
Which vehicle costs less to maintain over time?
Both brands rank low in maintenance costs compared to others. Parts stay affordable for both Honda and Toyota vehicles. Oil changes, tire rotations, and brakes cost similarly for both models.
Can teenagers operate both vehicles safely for road trips?
Both SUVs feature modern safety technologies that protect young drivers. The spacious interiors let passengers sit comfortably during long drives. Parents appreciate the stable handling on highways for new drivers.
What problems should buyers avoid in older model years?
Early 2000s Pilots had transmission issues in some cases. Certain Highlander years experienced timing belt concerns occasionally. Modern models perform reliably without significant known problems typically.
Which SUV feels easier to park in tight spaces?
The Highlander feels slightly easier due to slightly smaller dimensions. The Pilot feels longer when maneuvering in cramped parking lots. Backup cameras on both help parallel parking attempts successfully.
Do both vehicles handle winter driving well with all-wheel drive?
All-wheel drive versions perform equally well in snow. Both provide excellent traction on icy roads when equipped. The Pilot feels slightly more responsive in winter conditions overall.
Which brand makes better engines between Honda and Toyota?
Honda V6 engines deliver more power and responsiveness feel. Toyota turbocharged engines prioritize efficiency and smooth operation. Both earn high marks for long-term reliability and durability standards.
Does the Pilot or Highlander hold its value better after years?
Both maintain approximately 55-65 percent value after five years. Toyota vehicles slightly edge Honda for resale value retention. Actual prices depend more on specific condition and mileage.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Honda Pilot vs Toyota Highlander requires considering your family's priorities. The Pilot delivers more power, spacious seating, and maximum cargo capacity. The Highlander excels in fuel economy, affordability, and smooth daily driving feel. Neither SUV disappoints on safety, reliability, or modern features included.
Test drive both vehicles before making your final decision confidently. Feel the Pilot power and notice the Highlander smoothness yourself personally. Evaluate real-world comfort, driving experience, fuel costs, and storage needs genuinely. Your perfect family SUV depends on what matters most to your household needs.
For families seeking Japanese reliability and quality vehicles, discover why used Japanese cars represent excellent value. Learn more about reliable Japanese car brands when shopping for your next family vehicle purchase today.
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Explore related comparisons to make informed vehicle decisions: Honda vs Toyota Brand Comparison, Most Reliable Japanese Brands, Best Japanese Used Car Exporters, Japanese Second Hand Cars Guide, or Why Buy Japanese Cars.
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