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Honda pilot vs toyota highlander: top-rated suvs for families and outdoor enthusiasts

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to...

What To Know

  • While the Highlander has a slight edge in power, the Pilot’s fuel economy is marginally better, with an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway compared to the Highlander’s 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway.
  • The Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander come well-equipped with a range of standard features, including automatic climate control, power windows and locks, and a rearview camera.
  • The used Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander are priced similarly, but the Pilot tends to hold its value slightly better, making it a more cost-effective option in the long run.

When it comes to choosing a reliable and spacious used SUV, the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander are two top contenders. Both vehicles offer a comfortable ride, plenty of cargo space, and a host of desirable features. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive into the key differences between the used Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Fuel Economy

The Honda Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The Toyota Highlander also features a 3.5-liter V6, but it generates 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. While the Highlander has a slight edge in power, the Pilot’s fuel economy is marginally better, with an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway compared to the Highlander’s 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both the Pilot and Highlander offer ample interior space for passengers and cargo. The Pilot has a slightly larger cargo area behind the third row of seats, with 16.5 cubic feet of space compared to the Highlander’s 13.8 cubic feet. However, the Highlander has a more spacious third row of seats, providing more legroom and headroom for taller passengers.

Features and Technology

The Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander come well-equipped with a range of standard features, including automatic climate control, power windows and locks, and a rearview camera. The Pilot has a slight edge in terms of infotainment, with an available 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Highlander, on the other hand, offers a premium JBL audio system and a panoramic moonroof as optional features.

Safety and Reliability

Both the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander have earned excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Pilot has a slight advantage in terms of reliability, with higher predicted reliability scores from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.

Pricing and Value

The used Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander are priced similarly, with prices varying depending on the year, trim level, and mileage. However, the Pilot tends to hold its value slightly better than the Highlander, making it a more cost-effective option in the long run.

Which SUV Is Right for You?

Choosing between the used Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel economy, interior space, and reliability, the Honda Pilot is an excellent choice. If you prefer a more powerful engine, spacious third row, and premium features, the Toyota Highlander is a strong contender.

Verdict: The Ultimate Choice

Both the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander are exceptional used SUVs that offer a winning combination of space, comfort, and reliability. The Pilot’s superior fuel economy and interior space make it a great choice for families on a budget. The Highlander’s more powerful engine and spacious third row make it a better option for those who prioritize performance and comfort. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and priorities.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Which SUV has a better reputation for reliability?
A: The Honda Pilot has a slight edge over the Toyota Highlander in terms of predicted reliability.

Q: Which SUV has more cargo space?
A: The Honda Pilot has a slightly larger cargo area behind the third row of seats.

Q: Which SUV has a more spacious third row?
A: The Toyota Highlander has a more spacious third row of seats, providing more legroom and headroom for taller passengers.

Q: Which SUV has a better infotainment system?
A: The Honda Pilot has a slight edge in terms of infotainment, with an available 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The used Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander are priced similarly, but the Pilot tends to hold its value slightly better, making it a more cost-effective option in the long run.

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Mike Sullivan

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to guides and industry news updates. When he's not writing about Ford, you can find Mike cheering on his favorite NFL team at the local pub on game days.
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