Toyota Highlander vs Honda Pilot
Toyota Highlander vs Honda Pilot in Chicago, IL
Thinking about buying an SUV? If you're near Los Angeles and researching the best options, you're likely comparing the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Both models have been fan favorites for years, but which one truly stands out in 2024? This detailed comparison will help you make an informed decision, particularly with a focus on the latest Toyota Highlander and some exciting insights about the upcoming 2025 model. Follow along as we delve into the specs, towing capacity, and configurations of these two popular SUVs.
The First Look at the Honda Pilot
The 2024 Honda Pilot makes for a strong competitor to the Toyota Highlander. Similar to the Highlander, the Pilot is known for its spacious interior, strong performance, and advanced safety features. The Pilot offers seven trim levels and comes with a range of standard and available features that cater to different driving needs. Standard features on all trims include an 8-inch touchscreen display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, tri-zone automatic climate control, and Honda Sensing safety suite. Higher trims offer additional features. The Honda Pilot has a maximum of 3,500 towing capacity when properly equipped.
An Overview of the Toyota Highlander
The 2024 Toyota Highlander is a midsize crossover that has been a top choice for families thanks to its spacious interior, reliable performance, and impressive safety features. And with the upcoming 2025 model year set to bring even more updates and enhancements, it's easy to see why it remains a top contender in the SUV market. The 2024 Toyota Highlander comes in five trim levels, each with its own set of features and upgrades. The Toyota Highlander has an impressive maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This means you can easily tow a small camper or boat for your family outings without needing to upgrade to a larger vehicle.
Ultimate Design and Comfort
When it comes to interior design and comfort, both the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander offer impressive features. The 2024 Highlander presents a polished interior with high-quality materials and a modern design aesthetic. Spacious seating and a thoughtful cabin layout ensure both driver and passengers enjoy maximum comfort, even on long journeys.
Comparing Interiors
The Honda Pilot offers a roomy interior and comfortable seating across all three rows. However, the Pilot's design leans more towards functionality rather than luxury. On the other hand, the Highlander introduces new improvements for 2024, including upgraded upholstery and additional legroom in the third row. With multiple trims available, from the base L model to the luxurious Platinum trim, there's a configuration to suit every taste and budget. While both SUVs offer ample space, the Highlander edges out just slightly with its upscale feel and more refined finishes.
Powerful Vehicle Performance
In today's tech-driven world, having advanced technology and safety features in your vehicle is a must. The Toyota Highlander shines in this department with its state-of-the-art infotainment system, complete with a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The 2024 model includes more USB ports and wireless charging capabilities, ensuring everyone's devices stay powered up.
Solidity vs. Efficiency
The Honda Pilot, featuring a V6 engine, offers a solid performance but falls short in fuel efficiency compared to the Highlander. While the Pilot provides a reliable and steady driving experience, it doesn't quite match the Highlander's balance of power and efficiency, especially with the recent updates in the 2024 model. Driving the Highlander provides a smooth and composed experience, with responsive handling and the ability to tackle off-road adventures with ease. The 2024 model includes enhancements like improved suspension for a more comfortable ride and better control.
Technology and Safety
In today's tech-driven world, having advanced technology and safety features in your vehicle is a must. The Toyota Highlander shines in this department with its state-of-the-art infotainment system, complete with a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The 2024 model includes more USB ports and wireless charging capabilities, ensuring everyone's devices stay powered up.
Top-of-the-Line Safety Features
The Honda Pilot also offers a robust set of tech and safety features, such as its Honda Sensing suite, which includes similar driver-assist technologies. However, the Highlander's infotainment system is more intuitive, and its safety package is slightly more comprehensive, giving it an edge in this category. Safety is a top priority for Toyota, and the Highlander is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection. These features provide peace of mind for drivers and their families.
Comparing Price and Value
When evaluating price and value, it's essential to consider both the initial cost and long-term ownership expenses. The base model of the 2024 Toyota Highlander starts at a competitive price point, with the higher trims offering added features and luxury without an exorbitant price tag. The Highlander's combination of features, quality, and reliability ensures a strong resale value, making it a wise investment. The Honda Pilot, while also reasonably priced, tends to be slightly more expensive than the Highlander for comparable trims. Honda's lower fuel efficiency could lead to higher ownership costs over time.
Contrasting Shape and Size
Both the 2024 Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot seat up to eight passengers but differ in shape and size. The Highlander offers roomy legroom and headroom across all three rows, even making the third row comfortable for adults. Its design includes fold-flat seats for flexible cargo space. The Honda Pilot's third row is better suited for children and smaller adults. While it provides slightly more overall storage, it lacks the Highlander's versatile seating. The Highlander's sleek design includes a modern dashboard and premium materials, emphasizing comfort and luxury. The Pilot prioritizes practicality with durable materials and essential features. For families seeking a blend of space, comfort, and luxury, the Highlander is the better choice.
Spacious Cabin and Cargo Space
When comparing the 2024 Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, several differences in cabin and cargo space stand out. The Toyota Highlander seats up to eight passengers comfortably, with an adult-friendly third row providing adequate legroom and headroom. Its versatile cargo layout, including fold-flat rear seats, is ideal for families needing flexible storage. In contrast, the Honda Pilot also accommodates eight passengers but offers less comfort in its third row, making it more suitable for children. While the Pilot has slightly more overall storage space, it lacks the Highlander's convenient fold-flat mechanism. Ultimately, the Highlander excels in comfort, user-friendly seating, and practical storage, making it a preferred choice for families.
Reliability and Maintenance
When choosing between the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, expected reliability is a key factor. Both brands are known for durable vehicles, but the Highlander is particularly renowned for its exceptional reliability, consistently ranking high in studies by J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. Its robust design and high-quality materials result in fewer major repairs and lower maintenance costs. The Honda Pilot is also reliable, benefiting from Honda's commitment to quality and continuous improvement, though it may experience slightly more frequent issues than the Highlander. Ultimately, while both SUVs offer solid reliability, the Highlander's track record of dependability gives it an edge, making it a compelling choice for those who prioritize peace of mind and long-term savings.
Resale Value and Market Perception
When choosing between the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, reliability greatly impacts resale value. The Toyota Highlander, with its strong resale values and minimal depreciation, is ideal for buyers seeking a reliable, long-term investment. Its reputation for durability ensures it maintains its worth over time, offering a better return on investment. The Honda Pilot also has favorable resale value but doesn't quite match the Highlander's reliability. While still a sound choice, the Pilot's depreciation is slightly higher. Despite this, it remains a solid option for those who value Honda's quality and driving dynamics. Ultimately, the Highlander's reliability offers a compelling advantage for those prioritizing financial prudence and long-term savings.
The Best Fit and Finish
The Toyota Highlander is praised for its superior fit and finish, using premium materials that give the cabin a luxurious feel. Soft-touch surfaces, high-quality stitching, and meticulous attention to detail create an upscale environment for discerning buyers. The overall build quality and refinement of the Highlander's interior make it appealing to those who prioritize a sophisticated cabin. In contrast, the Honda Pilot emphasizes practicality and durability over luxury. While its fit and finish are commendable, the Pilot uses more utilitarian materials to withstand daily family wear and tear. The design is straightforward and functional, catering to buyers needing a robust interior for active lifestyles.
A Remarkable Driving Experience
The Toyota Highlander offers a balanced driving experience with comfort and agility, featuring smooth ride quality, responsive handling, and a well-damped suspension, making it ideal for both city driving and long-distance travel. Its powertrain provides ample acceleration, and the quiet cabin enhances overall driving pleasure. Conversely, the Honda Pilot delivers a more rugged and capable experience; its strong V6 engine and versatile all-wheel-drive system are well-suited for various terrains and weather conditions. While the Pilot's ride is slightly firmer than the Highlander's, its robust performance and reliable handling make it perfect for families who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Considering Reliability and Durability
Both the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot are known for reliability, but the Highlander has a slight edge. Toyota's commitment to quality is evident in high rankings from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. The Highlander's record for minimal repairs and lower maintenance costs offers peace of mind for buyers seeking a dependable vehicle. The Honda Pilot is also durable and long-lasting but might have slightly more frequent issues compared to the Highlander. These minor differences could influence buyers who prioritize reliability and cost savings.
Which Car Reigns Supreme?
The 2024 Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot are both reliable midsize SUVs, but the Highlander has a slight edge with fewer repairs and lower maintenance costs, supported by high rankings from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. The Highlander excels in luxurious interiors, superior fuel efficiency, and reliability, making it ideal for those prioritizing comfort and long-term value. Meanwhile, the Pilot offers excellent functionality, performance on various terrains, and more storage space, catering to families in need of a practical and rugged vehicle.
A Quick Comparison
Honda Pilot:
- Durable and practical interior design
- Strong V6 engine with robust performance
- More overall storage space
- Ideal for outdoor adventures and various terrains
Toyota Highlander:
- Upscale interior with premium materials
- Superior fuel efficiency
- High-reliability ratings and lower maintenance costs
- Versatile seating and spacious third row suitable for adults
