2021 Honda Pilot vs. 2021 Toyota Highlander

When you’re looking for a rock-solid SUV that combines stellar safety features with a plush interior, you might find yourself torn between the Pilot or Highlander. Many Morgan Hill drivers struggle to decide between the 2021 Honda Pilot vs. 2021 Toyota Highlander, two of the most popular options on the market today. But while the Highlander has its fans, we think the evidence points to the 2021 Honda Pilot as a smarter buy. Take a look at the 2021 Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander and see for yourself.

Pilot or Highlander: Pricing and Options

Budget is a key concern for many Sunnyvale drivers, and between the two, the Honda Pilot offers savings of thousands of dollars right off the bat.

• 2021 Toyota Highlander — The Highlander starts at $35,085 MSRP for the base L trim. It’s also available in LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum configurations.
• 2021 Honda Pilot — The 2021 Honda Pilot LX FWD SUV with the 9-speed automatic transmission will cost you just $32,550 MSRP*. But the Pilot also offers far more trims than the Highlander: base LX, EX, EX-L, EX-L w/ Navi & RES, Touring 7 & 8-Passenger, Elite, and Black Edition.

Pilot or Highlander: Performance

What about performance when comparing the Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander? Between the two models, you’ll find similar components and specs for the Santa Clara roads ahead. Both have a 3.5L V6 with nearly 300 hp. The Highlander has a very slight horsepower advantage, but that difference may or may not be worth the higher price point. Base trim specs are as follows:

2021 Honda Pilot LX

• 3.5L V6 engine 
• 280 horsepower 
• 262 lb-ft of torque 
• 6-speed automatic transmission

2021 Toyota Highlander L:

• 3.5L V6 engine
• 295 horsepower 
• 263 lb-ft of torque
• 8-speed automatic transmission

Pilot or Highlander: Dimensions

When you opt for a three-row SUV, space is a prime concern. And between the two, the Pilot offers an astounding 152.9 cubic feet of passenger space. That means extra room to stretch out and relax over those long road trips, along with plenty of space for your essentials as well. Take a look at the dimensions below:

2021 Honda Pilot

• Passenger Volume — 152.9 cubic feet
• Legroom (1st/2nd Row) — 40.9 inches / 38.4 inches
• Headroom (1st/2nd Row) — 40.9 inches / 39.5 inches
• Front Shoulder Room — 62.0 inches

2021 Toyota Highlander 

• Passenger Volume — 141.3 cubic feet
• Legroom (1st/2nd Row) –42.0 inches / 41.0 inches
• Headroom (1st/2nd Row) — 38.4 inches / 37.1 inches
• Front Shoulder Room — 59.0 inches

Find Your Next SUV with Capitol Honda 

You’ve seen how the 2021 Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander stack up, now try the Honda Pilot in San Jose. The team at Capitol Honda can introduce you to the Pilot inventory and special offers, then get you behind the wheel for a test drive, so don’t hesitate to contact us for more information!

*MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $1,175 destination charge and accessories. Dealer prices may vary. MSRP does not include $395 charge for premium colors.