Honda Pilot vs Toyota Highlander: 2024 SUV Comparison
The Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander are two of the most popular mid-size SUVs on the market today. Both offer a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced features, making them ideal choices for families and adventurers alike. In this detailed comparison, we will delve into various aspects of these two vehicles to help you determine which one suits your needs best.
Overview of Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander
Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot has long been a favorite in the SUV segment, known for its spacious interior and reliable performance. The 2024 model continues this tradition with updates that enhance its appeal. It features a robust V6 engine, a well-appointed cabin, and advanced safety technologies.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander has also carved out a significant niche, offering a versatile and comfortable ride. The 2024 Highlander comes with a turbocharged engine option, a high-quality interior, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. Its reputation for reliability and strong resale value adds to its allure.
Design and Interior
Exterior Design
The Honda Pilot presents a rugged and bold look, with a wide stance and muscular lines. Its dimensions include a length of 200 inches and a width of 79 inches, making it slightly larger than the Highlander, which measures 195 inches in length and 76 inches in width. This extra size translates into a more commanding road presence and potentially more interior space.
The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, adopts a more refined and sleek design. Its modern aesthetics are highlighted by sharp headlights and a streamlined profile, appealing to those who prefer a sophisticated look.
Interior Comfort and Space
Inside, both SUVs offer impressive comfort and space. The Honda Pilot can accommodate up to eight passengers, with generous legroom across all three rows. It provides 158 cubic feet of passenger volume, compared to the Highlander’s 142 cubic feet. This means more room for occupants and cargo, making the Pilot a better choice for larger families or those who frequently travel with many passengers.
The Toyota Highlander, while slightly smaller, still offers a comfortable and flexible interior. Its seating is supportive, and the second-row captain’s chairs in higher trims provide added comfort. The cargo space is also ample, though not as extensive as the Pilot’s.
Performance and Handling
Engine Options and Power
The Honda Pilot is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 285 horsepower. This powertrain ensures robust performance and smooth acceleration. The Pilot’s fuel economy is competitive, with an EPA rating of 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
In contrast, the Toyota Highlander offers a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that generates 265 horsepower. While it has slightly less power than the Pilot, it compensates with better fuel efficiency, achieving up to 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
Driving Dynamics
Both vehicles provide excellent driving dynamics, though their characteristics differ slightly. The Honda Pilot’s wider stance contributes to a stable and comfortable ride, making it ideal for long journeys and family road trips. Its turning radius is comparable to the Highlander, ensuring ease of maneuverability in tight spaces.
The Toyota Highlander excels in its smooth and composed handling. It offers a balanced ride quality, with well-tuned suspension that absorbs road imperfections effectively. The Highlander’s slightly smaller dimensions may also make it easier to navigate in urban settings.
Technology and Safety
Infotainment Systems
When it comes to technology, both SUVs are well-equipped. The Honda Pilot features an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, ensuring seamless connectivity for smartphone users. Higher trims offer additional features like a wireless charging pad and a premium audio system.
The Toyota Highlander matches this with its own suite of tech features. Its infotainment system includes a standard 8-inch or optional 12.3-inch touchscreen, also supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Highlander also offers a Wi-Fi hotspot, enhancing connectivity on the go.
Safety Features
Safety is a priority for both Honda and Toyota. The 2024 Honda Pilot includes standard features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a multi-angle rearview camera. It has earned high safety ratings, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers.
Similarly, the Toyota Highlander comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes pre-collision warning, dynamic radar cruise control, and lane departure alert with steering assist. The Highlander also boasts excellent crash test ratings and is known for its robust safety record.
Pricing and Value
Cost of Ownership
The starting MSRP for the 2024 Honda Pilot is slightly higher than that of the Toyota Highlander. However, the Pilot’s larger size and more powerful engine might justify the higher price for some buyers. Additionally, Honda’s reputation for durability may result in lower long-term maintenance costs.
The Toyota Highlander offers strong value with its lower starting price and excellent fuel efficiency. Its reputation for reliability ensures that it remains a smart investment, with high resale values contributing to its overall cost-effectiveness.
Warranty and Maintenance
Both vehicles come with competitive warranty packages. Honda provides a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Toyota offers a similar 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty but extends its powertrain coverage to 5 years or 60,000 miles.
Customer Reviews and Expert Opinions
Customer Satisfaction
Customer reviews highlight the strengths and weaknesses of both SUVs. The Honda Pilot is often praised for its spacious interior, powerful engine, and comfortable ride. Some common criticisms include its larger size, which can make parking more challenging, and slightly higher fuel consumption.
The Toyota Highlander receives accolades for its sleek design, fuel efficiency, and advanced safety features. However, some users note that the third-row seating can be a bit cramped compared to the Pilot, and the infotainment system may take some time to get used to.
Expert Reviews
Automotive experts generally hold both vehicles in high regard. The Honda Pilot is noted for its reliability and family-friendly features, making it a top choice for those needing a versatile SUV. The Toyota Highlander is often recommended for its balanced performance, stylish design, and comprehensive safety suite.
Final Verdict
In summary, the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander each have their unique strengths. The Pilot is an excellent choice for larger families or those who prioritize space and power. The Highlander, with its efficient engine and elegant design, is perfect for those seeking a stylish and economical SUV. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander can be challenging, but understanding their differences helps make an informed decision. Both SUVs offer exceptional value, reliability, and features. By considering your priorities—whether it’s space, performance, or fuel efficiency—you can select the SUV that best fits your lifestyle.
