2021 Honda Pilot Vs Toyota Highlander: Which SUV Wins?

Hey guys! So, you're in the market for a spacious and reliable SUV and you've narrowed it down to the 2021 Honda Pilot and the 2021 Toyota Highlander? Excellent choice! Both are stellar options in the mid-size SUV segment, offering ample seating, robust performance, and a plethora of features. But, figuring out which one truly reigns supreme can be a bit of a puzzle. Don't worry, I'm here to break it all down for you in a fun and easy-to-understand way. We'll dive deep into their specs, compare their strengths and weaknesses, and help you make the best decision for your needs. Think of this as your ultimate guide to navigating the Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander showdown! Let's get started!

A Head-to-Head Comparison: Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander 2021

Okay, let's get into the nitty-gritty! When you're deciding between the 2021 Honda Pilot and the 2021 Toyota Highlander, it's like choosing between two superheroes – both are incredibly capable, but they have different strengths and appeal to slightly different needs. To really figure out which one is your perfect match, we need to compare them head-to-head in several key areas. We're talking about performance, interior space and comfort, technology and features, safety ratings, and of course, the ever-important price tag. Think of it as a superhero battle royale, but instead of capes and superpowers, we're looking at horsepower, cargo space, and infotainment systems! We'll break down each category, highlight the winners and runners-up, and give you a clear picture of what each SUV brings to the table. So, buckle up and let's dive into this epic comparison!

Performance and Powertrain

Let's kick things off with performance, because what's an SUV if it can't handle the road, right? Both the 2021 Honda Pilot and the 2021 Toyota Highlander come standard with a V6 engine, which is great news for those who want some serious power under the hood. The Pilot boasts a 3.5-liter V6 that churns out 280 horsepower, paired with a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission. This combination gives the Pilot plenty of pep for everyday driving and confident acceleration for merging onto the highway or passing other cars. The Highlander, on the other hand, features a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 295 horsepower, also mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. On paper, the Highlander has a slight horsepower advantage, and you might feel that little extra oomph when you put your foot down. Both SUVs offer available all-wheel drive, which is a fantastic feature for those living in areas with snow or rough terrain. It provides added traction and stability, making you feel more confident in challenging driving conditions. Now, when it comes to fuel economy, the numbers are pretty close. Both SUVs achieve respectable gas mileage for their size, but the specific figures can vary slightly depending on the trim level and whether you opt for front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Overall, both the Pilot and the Highlander deliver a refined and capable driving experience, but the Highlander's slightly higher horsepower might give it a slight edge for some drivers. We should also consider that the Toyota Highlander also has a hybrid option, which gives much better fuel economy.

Interior Space and Comfort

Moving inside, let's talk about interior space and comfort, because let's face it, you're going to be spending a lot of time in your SUV, so it needs to be a comfortable and practical space. The 2021 Honda Pilot is known for its spacious three-row cabin, comfortably seating up to eight passengers. This makes it a fantastic choice for large families or those who frequently carpool. The third-row seats in the Pilot are surprisingly roomy, even for adults, which is a big plus. Cargo space is also generous, with plenty of room behind the third row for groceries or luggage. If you fold down the third-row seats, you get even more space for larger items. The 2021 Toyota Highlander also offers three rows of seating, but it's generally considered to be a bit more compact than the Pilot. It can seat up to eight passengers as well, but the third row is a bit tighter, making it more suitable for children or smaller adults. Cargo space in the Highlander is also a bit less than the Pilot, especially with all three rows of seats in use. However, the Highlander's interior is still well-appointed and offers plenty of comfort for passengers in the first two rows. Both SUVs offer a range of interior features, such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a sunroof, depending on the trim level. The design and layout of the interiors are also different, with the Pilot having a more traditional and functional feel, while the Highlander boasts a more modern and stylish aesthetic. So, if you prioritize maximum space and third-row comfort, the Pilot is the clear winner. But if you prefer a more stylish interior and don't need as much third-row room, the Highlander is a great option.

Technology and Features

Alright, let's dive into the tech and features, because in today's world, a car is more than just transportation – it's a rolling tech hub! Both the 2021 Honda Pilot and the 2021 Toyota Highlander are packed with impressive technology, but they have some key differences in their offerings. The Pilot comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that's user-friendly and responsive. It also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, which is a must-have feature for many drivers these days. Higher trim levels add features like a navigation system, a premium sound system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Highlander also boasts a standard touchscreen infotainment system, but it's available with a larger 12.3-inch display on higher trims, which is seriously impressive. Like the Pilot, it also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as available features like a navigation system and a premium sound system. One area where the Highlander shines is in its driver-assistance technology. It comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes a comprehensive suite of features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. The Pilot also offers a suite of driver-assistance features, called Honda Sensing, but some of these features are only available on higher trim levels. So, when it comes to technology, both SUVs offer a solid set of features, but the Highlander's larger touchscreen option and more comprehensive standard driver-assistance systems give it a slight edge in this category. It really comes down to what tech features are most important to you!

Safety Ratings and Driver-Assistance Features

Now, let's talk safety, because nothing is more important than the safety of you and your passengers. Both the 2021 Honda Pilot and the 2021 Toyota Highlander have earned top marks in safety testing, which is fantastic news for anyone considering these SUVs. They've both received five-star overall safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and have been named Top Safety Picks by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This means that both SUVs have performed exceptionally well in crash tests and have a strong suite of safety features to help prevent accidents. As we touched on earlier, both the Pilot and the Highlander come standard with a range of driver-assistance features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. However, the Highlander has a more comprehensive suite of standard features thanks to Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+. This system includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and road sign assist, which are either optional or not available on the base Pilot. The Pilot offers Honda Sensing, which is a similar suite of safety features, but it's not as comprehensive as the Highlander's standard offering. So, while both SUVs are incredibly safe, the Highlander's more extensive standard safety features give it a slight advantage in this category. You can drive with extra peace of mind knowing you have these advanced safety systems working for you.

Pricing and Value

Last but not least, let's talk about pricing and value, because the bottom line is always a key factor in any car-buying decision. The 2021 Honda Pilot and the 2021 Toyota Highlander have similar starting prices, but the specific price can vary depending on the trim level and any optional features you choose. Generally speaking, the Pilot tends to be slightly more affordable at the base level, but the prices can even out as you move up the trim ladder. To get a truly accurate picture, it's always best to check with your local dealers for the most up-to-date pricing and any available incentives or rebates. When it comes to value, both SUVs offer a lot for the money. They're both reliable, spacious, and well-equipped, making them smart choices for families or anyone who needs a versatile vehicle. The Pilot's spacious interior and comfortable third-row seats make it a great value for those who need to regularly transport a lot of passengers. The Highlander's strong safety ratings, comprehensive standard safety features, and stylish interior also make it a compelling value proposition. Ultimately, the best value for you will depend on your specific needs and priorities. Consider what features are most important to you and how much you're willing to spend, and then compare the different trim levels and options for each SUV to see which one offers the best bang for your buck. Don't forget to factor in long-term costs like fuel, maintenance, and insurance when making your decision!

The Verdict: Which SUV is Right for You?

So, we've reached the final showdown in the Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander battle! After this detailed comparison, it's clear that both the 2021 Honda Pilot and the 2021 Toyota Highlander are fantastic SUVs with a lot to offer. But, as with any comparison, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. The best SUV for you will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. If you prioritize maximum interior space, a comfortable third row, and a more budget-friendly price tag, the Honda Pilot is a strong contender. Its spacious cabin and generous cargo area make it ideal for large families or those who frequently haul passengers and gear. On the other hand, if you value a more stylish interior, a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, and a reputation for reliability, the Toyota Highlander might be more your style. Its sleek design and advanced technology make it a popular choice for those who want a modern and well-rounded SUV. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to test drive both vehicles yourself. Get behind the wheel, experience the handling and performance, and see how you feel in the driver's seat. Take your family along for the ride and see how they like the interior space and comfort. And don't forget to ask plenty of questions at the dealership! By doing your research and test driving both SUVs, you'll be well-equipped to make the best decision for your needs and drive away in the perfect SUV for you!