Suv showdown: toyota highlander vs. honda pilot – which one reigns supreme?

In the bustling used car market, the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot stand out as two popular choices for families seeking reliable and versatile SUVs. Both vehicles boast a spacious interior, advanced safety features, and proven dependability. But which one is the better value for your hard-earned money? This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between the used Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and budget.

Performance and Fuel Economy

The Toyota Highlander offers a range of powertrain options, including a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers a balanced blend of performance and fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

In comparison, the Honda Pilot is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. While it provides comparable power, the Pilot’s fuel economy is slightly lower, with EPA estimates of 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both the Highlander and Pilot offer ample seating for up to eight passengers. The Highlander’s interior features spacious and comfortable seats, with plenty of legroom and headroom in all three rows. The Pilot’s cabin is equally spacious, but it may feel slightly more cramped in the third row.

In terms of cargo capacity, the Highlander has a slight advantage. With the third row folded down, it offers 83.7 cubic feet of space, while the Pilot has 83.9 cubic feet. However, the Pilot’s wider rear hatch makes it easier to load and unload bulky items.

Features and Technology

The Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot come well-equipped with a range of features, including a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and automatic climate control. Higher trim levels offer additional amenities such as a sunroof, heated leather seats, and a premium sound system.

The Highlander’s infotainment system, Toyota Entune, is known for its user-friendly interface and smartphone integration. The Pilot’s infotainment system, HondaLink, is equally intuitive and features a larger touchscreen display.

Safety and Reliability

Both the Highlander and Pilot have earned high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). They come equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

In terms of reliability, both vehicles have a solid track record. However, the Toyota Highlander consistently ranks slightly higher in consumer surveys and reliability studies.

Value for Money

The used Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot are priced competitively in the used car market. The Highlander typically commands a slightly higher price due to its premium reputation and higher resale value. However, the Pilot offers a compelling value proposition with its spacious interior, impressive fuel economy, and advanced features.

The Verdict

Ultimately, the choice between the used Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot depends on your individual priorities and budget. If you prioritize reliability, resale value, and a comfortable interior, the Highlander is an excellent choice. However, if you seek a more spacious third row, better fuel economy, and a slightly lower price, the Pilot is a worthy contender.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: Both the Highlander and Pilot have 3.5-liter V6 engines, but the Highlander’s engine produces slightly more horsepower.

Q: Which vehicle gets better gas mileage?
A: The Highlander has slightly better fuel economy than the Pilot, with EPA estimates of 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to 19 mpg and 27 mpg, respectively.

Q: Which vehicle has a larger third row?
A: The Pilot has a slightly more spacious third row than the Highlander, providing more legroom and headroom for passengers.

Q: Which vehicle has a more user-friendly infotainment system?
A: Both the Highlander’s Toyota Entune and the Pilot’s HondaLink infotainment systems are user-friendly and feature smartphone integration. However, the Pilot’s touchscreen display is larger and may be easier to operate.

Q: Which vehicle is more reliable?
A: Both the Highlander and Pilot are known for their reliability, but the Highlander typically ranks slightly higher in consumer surveys and reliability studies.