2025 Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander
If you’re shopping for a three-row SUV, the Honda Pilot is probably at the top of your list to research. The closest rival to the Honda Pilot would probably have to be the Toyota Highlander and a lot of Pilot buyers consider the Highlander at some point. So what makes someone pick one over the other? Germain Honda of Surprise has put together this comparison to better illustrate the differences between the two rivals.
Honda Pilot VS Toyota Highlander
|
|
|
| 2025 Honda Pilot Sport FWD | VS | 2025 Toyota Highlander LE FWD |
| $40,200 | MSRP (excluding destination charges)* | $38,820 |
| 3.5-liter V6 ✓ | Engine | 2.4-liter I4 |
| 285 ✓ | Horsepower | 265 |
| 10 ✓ | Transmission Speeds | 8 |
| 39.3 inches / 32.5 inches ✓ | 3rd Row Headroom / Legroom | 36.1 inches / 28 inches |
| 61.9 inches / 61.7 inches / 59.5 inches ✓ | Shoulder Room (1st Row / 2nd / 3rd) | 59 inches / 58.7 inches / 55 inches |
| 87 cubic feet ✓ | Max Cargo Space | 84.3 cubic feet |
| Standard ✓ | Active Noise Cancellation | Not Available |
| Standard ✓ | Remote Start | Requires Subscription |
| TrailSport ✓ | Off-Road Trim | Not Available |
The first thing to notice about the comparison is that the prices of the two three-row SUVs are very similar. While the Toyota Highlander has a slight edge, a closer look at the Honda Pilot proves that it’s a much better value For starters, the Pilot comes with a bigger engine and that comes with a clear power advantage. On top of that, the Pilot has a more sophisticated 10-speed transmission to make better use of that extra power. Headroom and legroom are pretty similar for the first and second rows of seating but as you can see, the third row in the Pilot is dramatically roomier. The Pilot is a bit wider than the Highlander as well and this is evident in the shoulder room across all three rows.
Both vehicles have large interiors but the Honda Pilot gives you more cargo space no matter how you configure the seating. The Pilot also boasts a quieter interior thanks to standard active noise canceling. The Highlander can only be remote started with a smartphone app. This is a service offered by Honda as well but regular keyfob-operating remote starting is also standard on the Pilot while it isn’t on the Highlander. Lastly, those who want to take one of these vehicles off-road will have the option of the TrailSport trim on the Pilot. This rugged model comes with off-road-focused suspension and tires as well as a TrailWatch™ Camera System and other standard off-road equipment. No comparable trim exists for the Highlander so owners who want or need to take it off-road will have to spend thousands on aftermarket equipment.
Winner – Honda Pilot
It’s clear that the advantages of the Honda Pilot extend well beyond the price difference. The Pilot offers more room, better equipment, and a greater variety of features. For all the similarities between the two, the Pilot is the better choice when you look at the details. But you don’t have to take our word for it! Germain Honda of Surprise can help you experience the advantages of a Honda Pilot for yourself.
*MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, and $1,450 destination charge for 2025 models, and accessories. Dealer prices may vary. MSRP does not include $455 charge for premium colors.