2023 Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander: mid-size SUV Showdown

Posted by Ahmad Rashad Al Zeer on Oct 16, 2023

Alright, let's dive into the world of mid-size SUVs. It's all about those nitty-gritty specs and features that really matter. Here's your roadmap.

Mid-size Showdown: Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander

So, we're looking at the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander. They've got their own unique flair, you know? The Highlander takes the crown for fuel efficiency, especially if you go for the hybrid version - something you won't find in the Pilot.

But hold on, there's common ground. They both flex their muscles with a 5000-pound towing capacity, offer all-wheel drive, and kick off the journey at almost the same price tag: $37,645 for the Pilot, and $37,955 for the Highlander.

Now, in the world of three-row family SUVs, it's a fierce game. These two, the Pilot and the Highlander, might not be off-roading champs, but they're darn good at shuttling families around.

Exterior Charisma

Toyota and Honda, they've put their thinking caps on in the design department. The Toyota Highlander and the Honda Pilot, share the familiar SUV shape, but there's a twist. The Pilot gets a fresh look this year with a bold, body-colored C-pillar, giving it a more rugged vibe. The 2023 Highlander keeps the charm of last year's model, especially with its captivating front end.

Interior Comforts

Step inside, and you'll notice the Toyota Highlander has upped its interior game. They've brought in top-notch materials like SofTex and leather. On the fancier trims, Toyota introduces a snazzy 12.3-inch infotainment display (though you'll get an 8.0-inch screen on the lower models) and a slick 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Oh, and let's not forget the 11-speaker JBL sound system - it's music to your ears!

Meanwhile, the Honda Pilot’s got a few tricks up its sleeve. Check out that center section between the optional second-row captain's chairs - folds right into the floor! Plus, you can opt for a 12-speaker Bose sound system and a panoramic moonroof. The infotainment game starts at 7.0 inches on the base models, but ramps up to a generous 9.0 inches on the EX-L and up.

Both SUVs can play host to seven or eight folks. Behind the third row, the Toyota Highlander offers 16 cubic feet, while the Honda Pilot kicks it up a notch with up to 22.4 cubic feet.

Engine and Powertrain

Let's talk power. The 2023 Toyota Highlander switches things up, trading its V-6 for a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. That means 265 horsepower and a hefty 420 N.m of torque, all paired with an eight-speed transmission, and it has a fuel economy of 9.8 l/100km combined. Over in the Honda Pilot's corner, it’s sticking with its trusty 3.5-liter V-6, now tuned to deliver 285 horsepower - a five-horsepower upgrade from last year. Torque? A solid 355 N.m of torque. And now, a brand new 10-speed automatic transmission steps into the spotlight, giving us 10.6 l/100km combined.

If you're the off-road type, the Pilot's got the TrailSport trim for you. Both can tow 5000 pounds and come with front- or all-wheel drive options. But here’s the kicker - the Highlander rocks a hybrid powertrain, something the Pilot doesn't have. That translates to a sweet 6.5 l/100km combined.

Price 

Alright, let’s talk numbers. The 2023 Honda Pilot price starts at $37,645, with the 2023 Toyota Highlander price trailing close behind at $37,955. Start adding in those hybrid or all-wheel drive options, and the digits start climbing. Still, these SUVs kick off from pretty darn similar starting lines.

 

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SUV | honda pilot | toyota highlander | used cars

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