Suv Showdown: Honda Pilot Vs. Toyota Highlander: Which One Reigns Supreme In 2023?

When it comes to reliable and versatile SUVs, the used Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander stand out as two of the most popular options. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, impressive performance, and a host of features that make them ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the used Honda Pilot against the Toyota Highlander to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency:

The Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander both offer capable powertrains that deliver a smooth and responsive driving experience. The Pilot comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Highlander, on the other hand, offers a choice between a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, or a hybrid powertrain that combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with two electric motors for a combined output of 306 horsepower.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid takes the lead with an impressive EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined, while the standard Highlander V6 returns 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Honda Pilot, on the other hand, achieves 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with its V6 engine.

Interior Space and Comfort:

Both the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander offer spacious and comfortable interiors, making them ideal for families and long road trips. The Pilot offers seating for up to eight passengers, with ample legroom and headroom in all three rows. The Highlander also seats up to eight passengers, but its third row is slightly less spacious than the Pilot’s.

In terms of cargo space, the Honda Pilot offers 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.8 cubic feet behind the second row, and 83.9 cubic feet with both rear rows folded down. The Toyota Highlander offers 16.1 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet behind the second row, and 84.3 cubic feet with both rear rows folded down.

Features and Technology:

The Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander come well-equipped with a range of features and technologies to enhance your driving experience. Both vehicles offer a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium audio system. The Pilot also features a rear-seat entertainment system with a DVD player, while the Highlander offers a panoramic sunroof and a hands-free power liftgate.

In terms of safety features, both the Pilot and Highlander come standard with a comprehensive suite of airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The Pilot also offers Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety features that includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Highlander, on the other hand, offers Toyota Safety Sense, which includes similar features such as lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

Off-Road Capabilities:

If you’re planning on taking your SUV off the beaten path, the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander offer different levels of capability. The Pilot comes standard with all-wheel drive and a ground clearance of 8.2 inches, while the Highlander offers all-wheel drive as an option and has a ground clearance of 8.1 inches.

Both vehicles feature a variety of drive modes that allow you to optimize performance for different terrains, including snow, mud, and sand. However, the Pilot’s more aggressive all-wheel drive system and slightly higher ground clearance give it a slight edge in terms of off-road capability.

Reliability and Maintenance:

Both the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander have a reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs. The Pilot has consistently ranked highly in J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study, while the Highlander has earned a reputation for being one of the most reliable SUVs on the road.

In terms of maintenance, both vehicles require regular oil changes and tire rotations. The Pilot has a recommended maintenance interval of 7,500 miles or six months, while the Highlander has a recommended maintenance interval of 10,000 miles or 12 months.

Resale Value:

When it comes to resale value, both the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander hold their value well over time. The Pilot typically retains around 55% of its original value after three years, while the Highlander retains around 58% of its original value after three years. This makes both vehicles a smart investment that will hold its value for years to come.

Beyond the Comparison:

• Safety Ratings: Both the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander have received top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

• Towing Capacity: The Honda Pilot has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, while the Toyota Highlander has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds with the V6 engine and 3,500 pounds with the hybrid powertrain.

• Warranty Coverage: Both vehicles come with a comprehensive warranty package that includes a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a five-year/unlimited-mile corrosion warranty.

Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the choice between the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a spacious and versatile SUV with strong off-road capabilities, the Pilot is a great choice. If you’re looking for a fuel-efficient SUV with a comfortable interior and a long list of features, the Highlander is a great choice.

FAQ:

• Q: Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?

A: The Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers the best fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined.

• Q: Which vehicle has more cargo space?

A: The Toyota Highlander offers slightly more cargo space than the Honda Pilot, with 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space with both rear rows folded down.

• Q: Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?

A: Both vehicles have a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, but the Honda Pilot has a slightly higher towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.