Advertisement
Canada markets open in 4 hours 27 minutes
  • S&P/TSX

    22,107.08
    +194.56 (+0.89%)
     
  • S&P 500

    5,248.49
    +44.91 (+0.86%)
     
  • DOW

    39,760.08
    +477.75 (+1.22%)
     
  • CAD/USD

    0.7350
    -0.0022 (-0.30%)
     
  • CRUDE OIL

    81.75
    +0.40 (+0.49%)
     
  • Bitcoin CAD

    96,018.04
    +1,326.57 (+1.40%)
     
  • CMC Crypto 200

    885.54
    0.00 (0.00%)
     
  • GOLD FUTURES

    2,216.20
    +3.50 (+0.16%)
     
  • RUSSELL 2000

    2,114.35
    +44.19 (+2.13%)
     
  • 10-Yr Bond

    4.1960
    0.0000 (0.00%)
     
  • NASDAQ futures

    18,490.00
    -13.75 (-0.07%)
     
  • VOLATILITY

    12.96
    +0.18 (+1.41%)
     
  • FTSE

    7,955.02
    +23.04 (+0.29%)
     
  • NIKKEI 225

    40,168.07
    -594.66 (-1.46%)
     
  • CAD/EUR

    0.6809
    +0.0004 (+0.06%)
     

Honda Pilot vs Toyota Highlander: Which is Best For Me?

Honda Pilot vs Toyota Highlander: Which is Best For Me?

Shoppers looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient midsized SUV have been drawn to the segment-pioneering Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander now for three model generations. Born from car platforms, these crossovers continue to deliver suburban-friendly dimensions, car-like ride, interior versatility, passenger comfort, and respectable fuel economy. The burning question for many consumers is choosing between them—a dilemma expressed on the Consumer Reports Cars Facebook page recently.

Looking at the specs and pricing of each SUV, the models compare quite closely. Even in our tests, these rivals closely align, with matching 0-60 mph acceleration times, almost identical fuel economy results, and similar ratings for routine and emergency handling. Slight differences can be found in braking distance and headlight ratings, favoring the Highlander. But that is a rare variance, as ride comfort, noise isolation, and driving position all are rated as Very Good for both the Pilot and Highlander.

Where there is a meaningful difference is in their dimensions, with the Pilot being notably larger. This distinction translates to a cabin that feels more spacious, with notably more room for the third row. Even still, the fold-away rear bench is compromised by a low bottom cushion. While the Pilot’s size gives it the edge in many passenger-space measurements, the trade-off is that the Honda occupies more garage space by being four inches longer, three inches wider, and two inches taller than the Toyota. Combined with its size—especially the height—the Pilot feels a bit minivan-esque. While this is good for functionality, the Pilot’s handling is far from nimble. By contrast, the Highlander feels more responsive, almost skewing toward the behavior of a decent sedan.

Honda Pilot

Toyota Highlander

Huge, versatile interior

Accommodating interior and simple controls make it easy to live with

Nifty one-button folding seat access to third row

Handles better than previous models

Slick powertrain

Lots of features for the money

Rides well and is relatively quiet

Proven reliability

Wide availability of advanced safety equipment (excluding blind-spot monitoring)

Hybrid version provides excellent fuel economy

For most shoppers, utility and character may be the dividing lines between these models, with the Pilot appealing to those who value passenger and cargo space, along with a more compliant ride, while the Highlander will draw those who favor more engaging handling and a garage-friendly size.

ADVERTISEMENT

One of the reasons the Highlander ultimately outscores the Pilot in our Ratings is its superior infotainment system, which is your every day gateway to audio and phone interactions. The Pilot’s touchscreen is convoluted and not always quick to respond to inputs and commands, whereas the Highlander’s screen is considerably simpler to use.

Two other things you need to know: For 2017 the Highlander gets more power and an 8-speed automatic—which will likely boost acceleration and fuel economy—and advanced safety features are more accessible. The Pilot (EX versions and up) has a feature called LaneWatch, which shows you, on the center screen, an image of what’s in your right side blind spot. But it’s no substitute for a full blind-spot monitoring system that covers both sides of the vehicle.

Ultimately, you won’t go wrong with either one. So ask yourself: how heavily do you weigh the Pilot’s extra utility versus the Highlander’s more car-like driving characteristics and easier to use controls?

And, don’t forget to consider the impressive Kia Sorento, a Consumer Reports Top Pick for 2016.



More from Consumer Reports:
5 least reliable cars from Consumer Reports' survey
Best Used Cars for $25,000 and Less
Which Car Brands make the Best Vehicles

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2016 Consumers Union of U.S.