Which is Better: Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander?
When it comes to choosing a reliable and feature-packed midsize SUV, two popular options come to mind: the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander. Both vehicles have their strengths and weaknesses, making it a tough decision for potential buyers. In this article, we’ll delve into the key similarities and differences between the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Features
The Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander share a similar design language, with bold and angular exteriors. However, the Pilot’s front grille is more angular and has a more aggressive stance. The Highlander’s grille, on the other hand, is more rounded and sleek.
Key Features Comparison
Feature | Honda Pilot | Toyota Highlander |
---|---|---|
Seating Capacity | 8 (optional 7) | 8 (optional 7) |
Engine | 3.5L V6 | 3.5L V6 |
Transmission | 6-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
Fuel Economy (FWD) | 20/27 mpg | 21/27 mpg |
Infotainment System | 5-inch LCD screen | 8-inch touchscreen display |
Advanced Safety Features | Honda Sensing suite (forward collision warning, lane departure warning, etc.) | Toyota Safety Sense P (lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, etc.) |
Performance and Handling
Both the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander are equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. However, the Pilot’s engine feels more refined and responsive, especially when merging onto highways or climbing steep inclines. The Highlander’s transmission, on the other hand, can be slow to respond to sudden acceleration.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Honda Pilot boasts a more spacious interior, with 21.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. The Toyota Highlander offers 16.1 cubic feet of cargo space, but the Pilot’s third row is more usable for adults. The Highlander’s second row is slightly more comfortable, with 40.6 inches of legroom compared to the Pilot’s 39.5 inches.
Safety and Reliability
Both the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander have a good safety record, with top ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, the Pilot has a slight edge in terms of reliability, with a lower 5-year reliability rating from J.D. Power compared to the Highlander’s 3.5/5 rating.
Price and Trim Levels
The Honda Pilot offers a more affordable base price, starting at around $32,000, while the Toyota Highlander’s base price starts at around $32,450. However, the Pilot’s top-of-the-line Elite trim is significantly more expensive, with a price tag of over $44,000, compared to the Highlander’s Limited trim, which starts at around $43,000.
Conclusion
The Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander are both excellent midsize SUVs, each with its strengths and weaknesses. While the Pilot excels in terms of interior space, performance, and safety, the Highlander offers a more comfortable ride and more advanced safety features. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual needs and preferences.
Recommendation
If you prioritize interior space, performance, and affordability, the Honda Pilot may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more comfortable ride, advanced safety features, and a more premium interior, the Toyota Highlander is worth considering.
Table: Comparison of Key Features
Feature | Honda Pilot | Toyota Highlander |
---|---|---|
Seating Capacity | 8 (optional 7) | 8 (optional 7) |
Engine | 3.5L V6 | 3.5L V6 |
Transmission | 6-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
Fuel Economy (FWD) | 20/27 mpg | 21/27 mpg |
Infotainment System | 5-inch LCD screen | 8-inch touchscreen display |
Advanced Safety Features | Honda Sensing suite | Toyota Safety Sense P |
Conclusion:
The Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander are both excellent midsize SUVs, each with its strengths and weaknesses. While the Pilot excels in terms of interior space, performance, and safety, the Highlander offers a more comfortable ride and more advanced safety features. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual needs and preferences.