Toyota has dropped the base LE trim from the Highlander and now makes all-wheel drive standard across the lineup. Honda, on the other hand, has given the Pilot a long-overdue touchscreen upgrade, while still limiting powertrains to a V6. In the Toyota Highlander vs Honda Pilot matchup, both companies have solved the same problem in different ways. The question is, which one is actually the best for your driveway, daily commute, and budget?
Pricing: Toyota Highlander vs Honda Pilot Starting Cost
The 2026 Toyota Highlander starts at $47,365 for the XLE trim and goes up to about $55,020 for the Platinum version. This increase from last year is due to two reasons: Toyota has eliminated the cheaper LE trim, and AWD is now standard on every trim.
The 2026 Honda Pilot, on the other hand, is priced relatively low, starting at $42,395 for the front-wheel-drive Sport trim and going up to $55,195 for the full-featured Black Edition. Since the Pilot still has a FWD option on entry-level trims, it’s a relatively easy and affordable option for buyers who don’t need AWD.
In short, the Pilot comes out on top in terms of price, while the Highlander is more worthwhile if you plan to spend extra on AWD anyway, as it’s already included here.
Financing and Deals
This year, Toyota is offering promotional financing as low as 4.99 percent for eligible buyers, while Honda dealers often add towing packages or accessory credits to Pilot offers. Since these incentives change every month, it’s best to get a quote from the dealer before making any decisions. Generally, both vehicles have a few percent margin over MSRP that can be discussed”.
Engine and Performance: Turbo Four vs V6
The Highlander has a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, as well as a hybrid version that delivers better mileage with 243 combined horsepower. The Pilot still sticks with a 3.5-liter V6 that delivers 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, without a turbo or hybrid option. The Highlander feels quicker at first, while the Pilot’s engine runs smoother and more conventionally.
Fuel Economy Comparison
The difference in fuel economy is clear:
- Toyota Highlander (gas): 24 mpg combined
- Toyota Highlander Hybrid: 35 to 36 mpg combined
- Honda Pilot (2WD): 22 mpg combined
- Honda Pilot (AWD): 21 mpg combined
- Honda Pilot TrailSport: 20 mpg combined
- Here, the Highlander Hybrid is clearly ahead, and this is also the Pilot’s weakest point, as Honda does not offer a hybrid version of this vehicle at all.
Towing Capacity: Highlander vs Pilot
In terms of towing capacity, both vehicles are capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds with AWD, meaning they’re equal on paper. The difference comes where the Highlander Hybrid’s limit is limited to just 3,500 pounds, and the same limit applies to the Pilot’s 2WD trims. Both SUVs are fine for towing a small boat or camper trailer, but be sure to verify your specific drivetrain and powertrain combination before relying on the maximum towing rating.
Interior Space, Seating, and Cargo Room
The Highlander has seating capacity for seven or eight, depending on whether you choose captain’s chairs or a bench in the second row. Cargo space behind the third row is about 16 cubic feet, which increases to 84.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.
The Pilot also offers seating for eight and is slightly ahead in cargo space, with up to 87 cubic feet of space available with both rear rows folded. There’s also better organization for smaller items, with a large front console tray and door pockets providing ample space for water bottles and everyday items.
Third-row legroom is about the same in both.
Technology and Infotainment
Previously, the field was in Toyota’s favor, but for 2026, Honda has largely closed the gap. The Pilot now comes standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Google built-in, a big jump from the previous small 7-inch screen. Upper trims also include a 12-speaker Bose sound system and a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster. The Highlander has also reached the same level, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and an optional 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster in Limited and Platinum trims. The two systems are now equal in capability; the only difference is the choice of menu layout.
Reliability and Ownership Costs
Toyota’s long-term reliability lead continues into 2026. Both consumer reliability ratings and expected maintenance costs favor the Highlander.
The Pilot isn’t unreliable; Honda’s V6 engine and transmission have a solid track record, but it generally lags behind the Toyota in dependability rankings. If you plan to keep the car for 8 to 10 years, that’s a difference worth considering.
Which One Should You Actually Buy?
- Choose the Highlander if fuel economy (especially the hybrid version) and a quiet ride are your priorities.
- Choose the Pilot if you like entry-level pricing, more cargo space, the ruggedness of the TrailSport, or V6 power.
- Both vehicles are excellent three-row SUVs in their own right. This decision isn’t between a good car and a bad car, but between two different priorities.
Conclusion
In the Toyota Highlander vs Honda Pilot comparison, the Highlander leads in fuel economy, ride quality, and long-term reliability, while the Pilot leads in terms of lower price, more cargo space, and the robustness of the TrailSport trim. If your priority is mileage and a comfortable drive, the Highlander will be a better choice, and if budget and space are more important, the Pilot will be more suitable. Neither is a bad choice; it just comes down to your own preferences.
FAQs
Is the Toyota Highlander vs Honda Pilot better for towing?
With AWD, both vehicles are capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, meaning they’re equal in that regard. However, be sure to verify your specific trim and drivetrain combination before relying on the maximum rating.
Which is more fuel efficient, the Highlander or the Pilot?
The Highlander is more fuel efficient, especially in the hybrid version that returns 35 to 36 mpg combined, while the Pilot is limited to 20 to 22 mpg combined in its various trims.
Does the Honda Pilot come in a hybrid version?
No, the 2026 Honda Pilot is only available with a 3.5-liter V6 engine. If a hybrid three-row SUV is your preference, the Highlander Hybrid is a better choice in this comparison.
Which SUV has more cargo space, the Highlander or the Pilot?
The Honda Pilot has about 87 cubic feet of cargo space available with all seats folded, which is slightly more than the Highlander’s about 84.3 cubic feet of space.
Zarmeen Rafiq is an automotive writer at MotoGPVibes who covers car reviews, buying guides, vehicle comparisons, and automotive news. She creates clear, well-researched content to help readers make confident and informed decisions.
