Honda Pilot vs Toyota Grand Highlander: 9 Compare
Comparing the Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander means looking at two leading three-row SUVs.
They’re built for families who want lots of space, comfort, and strong performance. In this review, find out about their costs, specs, fuel efficiency, interior perks, cargo space, how they ride, and how safe they are.
Whether the Honda Pilot’s reliability or the Toyota Grand Highlander’s fresh design catches your eye, this guide covers it all. It aims to help you pick wisely.
We’ll look closely at important features like starting costs, models available, and engine choices. This will help you see the benefits and drawbacks clearly.
Get ready to find out which SUV best fits your family’s needs in our detailed Honda Pilot vs Toyota Grand Highlander comparison.
Introduction To The Comparison
In this analysis, we’ll explore the honda pilot vs toyota grand highlander. You’ll learn about key features and differences to help you choose the right car.
We will look into size, amenities, and value, all important for family trips. Both SUVs have recently been updated in design and performance.
This will help you figure out which one fits your life and needs best.
Honda Pilot vs Toyota Grand Highlander: Overview of Their History
The Honda Pilot first appeared in 2002. It quickly became known as a dependable, family-friendly SUV. Its history shows a dedication to usefulness and cosiness.
With the 2023 redesign, it grew bigger and more competitive in the three-row SUV market.
On the other side, the Toyota Grand Highlander launched in 2024. It came to succeed the older Highlander.
This SUV is more spacious and packed with up-to-date features. It’s made for larger families but keeps Toyota’s reliable name strong.
Pricing and Trims
Looking at the honda pilot pricing, it’s smart to see how it stacks up against others like the Toyota Grand Highlander. The Honda Pilot starts at about $41,650 for the 2023 model.
This is less than the Grand Highlander, which begins at roughly $42,310, making the Pilot a more wallet-friendly choice.
Starting Prices
The cost difference is something to think about when choosing. Being priced lower, the Honda Pilot stands out for those watching their budget.
Here’s a quick look at their starting prices:
| Model | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Honda Pilot | $41,650 |
| Toyota Grand Highlander | $42,310 |
Trim Levels and Options
The Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander have different trim levels to fit what customers want.
The Pilot offers trims like Sport, EX-L, Touring, and Elite, each with various features. On the other side, the toyota grand highlander trims range from XLE to the plush Platinum.
This shows how the Grand Highlander aims for a luxury feel in its mid-grade options.
Performance Specifications
The Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander show different features for various driving likes. This lets buyers choose based on what they need.
Engine Options
The Honda Pilot has a strong 3.5-liter V6 engine with 285 horsepower. It’s great for day-to-day use and trips with the family.
Meanwhile, the Toyota Grand Highlander offers different engines. Its starting engine is a 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder with good power.
For green driving, it has hybrids. The top hybrid hits 362 horsepower.
Acceleration and Handling
The Honda Pilot moves fast and smooth, making it easy to speed up when you need to. It handles well, so driving in tight or curvy places is easy.
But, the Toyota Grand Highlander gives a stable ride with less of the Pilot’s agile handling.
Fuel Efficiency
Many buyers see fuel efficiency as crucial when looking at full-size SUVs. The Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander offer distinct advantages in fuel economy.
These can greatly influence your driving costs and experience.
MPG Ratings
The Honda Pilot gets 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. These numbers are pretty standard for its class.
On the other hand, the Toyota Grand Highlander, especially its hybrid models, shines in fuel efficiency.
It can achieve up to 36 mpg combined. This difference can mean big savings for those who value mileage.
Hybrid Options
The Toyota Grand Highlander offers hybrid versions for more sustainable driving. These models are great for those who care about being eco-friendly and want to save on fuel.
Even though the Honda Pilot lacks a hybrid option, it still meets various driving needs with its strong performance.
| Model | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Pilot | 19 | 27 | 22 |
| Toyota Grand Highlander (Hybrid) | Up to 36 (combined) | Up to 36 (combined) | Up to 36 (combined) |
Interior Features and Comfort
The Honda Pilot’s interior is known for its simple design which focuses on being easy to use. It has a dashboard that is easy to understand and comes with a 9-inch touchscreen.
This makes getting to your entertainment options a breeze. On the other hand, the Toyota Grand Highlander offers a bigger 12.3-inch touchscreen.
This is great for those who love technology and want the latest features while driving.
Dashboard and Infotainment
The Honda Pilot makes sure everything you need is within reach. Its infotainment system easily connects with your smartphone, keeping you connected as you drive.
The Grand Highlander goes a step further with a bigger screen and more advanced options.
This means you get larger images and better tools at your fingertips, enhancing your driving experience.
Seating Comfort and Capacity
The Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander both offer seats for up to eight people. In the Pilot, you can even take out the middle seat in the second row.
This is super helpful for families or when traveling with a group. The Grand Highlander stands out with its roomy seats.
Everyone gets enough space to stretch their legs and stay comfy, no matter how long the journey.
| Feature | Honda Pilot | Toyota Grand Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Touchscreen Size | 9 inches | 12.3 inches |
| Seating Capacity | 8 passengers | 8 passengers |
| Second Row Flexibility | Removable middle seat | N/A |
| Infotainment Features | Standard smartphone integration | Advanced features and larger interface |
Cargo Capacity
When looking at family SUVs, how much they can carry is key. The Honda Pilot has 18.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row.
This is enough for daily tasks. For more space, you can fold the second-row seats. This action increases the cargo area to a big 87.0 cubic feet. It’s great for moving larger items.
The Toyota Grand Highlander offers a bit more room. It has 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row for extra bags or equipment.
When you fold down the second-row seats, you get 97.5 cubic feet in total. This boost in space is perfect for families carrying sports gear or big loads often.
| Vehicle | Cargo Capacity Behind Third Row | Maximum Cargo Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Honda Pilot | 18.6 cubic feet | 87.0 cubic feet |
| Toyota Grand Highlander | 20.6 cubic feet | 97.5 cubic feet |
Ride Quality and Handling
When looking at the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Grand Highlander, each SUV offers a different drive.
The Honda Pilot stands out for its smooth rides, thanks to its polished suspension. This makes it comfy for both short and long trips.
The Pilot’s handling is now better than before. Drivers like its quick steering and agility, making turns feel safer.
This improvement elevates your driving experience, especially during lively driving. The Toyota Grand Highlander gives a smooth ride too, especially on good roads.
It feels stable and hefty, making the ride soft. However, its size can make it less agile than the Pilot. While comfy, drivers note it’s not as engaging to drive as the Pilot.
If you want a smooth ride and a fun driving experience, the Honda Pilot is the better pick over the Toyota Grand Highlander.
Safety Ratings and Features
Safety matters most when choosing a car for your family. The Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander are top picks in this regard. Both earn high marks from safety experts.
They’re packed with features to protect you and your loved ones on the road. Learning the details helps you pick the right car for your family.
Crash Test Ratings
Both cars are stars in crash tests, getting five stars from the NHTSA. They also earned the “Top Safety Pick” from the IIHS.
These honors show they’re well-built to keep you safe, making them great choices.
Driver Assistance Technologies
Both come with tech to make driving safer. You’ll find:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane-keeping assist
- Adaptive cruise control
The Toyota Grand Highlander goes further with a hands-free system for low-speed driving. This extra feature boosts your security, giving you tools for different driving needs.
Honda Pilot vs Toyota Grand Highlander: Final Verdict
The Honda Pilot vs Toyota Grand Highlander comparison shows each SUV has its own perks for families.
The Honda Pilot gets high marks for its performance, welcoming cabin, and flexible seating. It’s also more budget-friendly, which is great for cost-conscious families.
On the other side, the Toyota Grand Highlander stands out with its larger size and hybrid efficiency. It’s ideal for those who value space and eco-friendly features.
Choosing between them depends on what matters most to you. If you’re looking to save money and want strong performance, the Honda Pilot is a solid choice.
But if hybrid performance and lots of room are top priorities, the Toyota Grand Highlander could be a better fit for your family.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander comes down to what you value more.
The Honda Pilot shines with its big interior and easy-to-use tech, making it perfect for families who want comfort.
The Toyota Grand Highlander, however, stands out for its strong performance and good gas mileage, appealing to those who want a dependable everyday car.
What’s important to you should guide your choice. If lots of space and flexible seating are key, consider the Honda Pilot.
But if you prefer powerful performance and the latest in safety, the Toyota Grand Highlander might be better.
Both SUVs are top picks in their class, guaranteeing satisfaction for years. Think about how you drive, your family’s needs, and what you like.
This will help you choose wisely, picking the SUV that fits your life and requirements.
FAQs
Q: What are the main differences between the Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander?
A: The Honda Pilot has a strong V6 engine and many seating options. The Toyota Grand Highlander, on the other hand, offers hybrid versions and more space for your stuff. They each have unique tech and performance qualities.
Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient, the Honda Pilot or the Toyota Grand Highlander?
A: The Toyota Grand Highlander, especially its hybrid models, uses less fuel. It can go up to 36 miles on a gallon of gas combined. Meanwhile, the Honda Pilot gets 19 miles per gallon in the city and 27 on the highway.
Q: How do the prices of the Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander compare?
A: The 2023 Honda Pilot starts at about ,650. The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander begins at roughly ,310. This means the Pilot costs a bit less.
Q: Which SUV has better cargo capacity?
A: The Toyota Grand Highlander has more room for your things, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the last row of seats. The Honda Pilot has 18.6 cubic feet in that same area.
Q: Are there significant safety features in both models?
A: Yes, both SUVs come with top safety features like auto emergency braking and help to stay in the lane. They also score well in safety tests.
Q: What are the performance differences between the Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander?
A: The Honda Pilot runs on a 3.5-liter V6 engine, giving it 285 horsepower. The Grand Highlander offers a choice of engines, including a hybrid that can give up to 362 horsepower.
Q: How do the interior features of the Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander compare?
A: The Honda Pilot’s inside is simpler, with a touchscreen up to 9 inches big. The Toyota Grand Highlander features a bigger 12.3-inch touchscreen in all models, aiming for those who love technology.
