2025 Comparison: Honda Pilot Vs. Toyota Highlander
When it comes to choosing a reliable, family-friendly midsize SUV, a Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander comparison is most likely on your list. The team from DARCARS Honda Fairfax takes the time to compare Honda Pilot to Toyota Highlander differences and shows why we believe the Pilot stands out as the smarter choice for families.
Toyota Highlander vs. Honda Pilot Overview
- Both SUVs offer third-row seating and accommodate up to eight passengers, but the Honda Pilot stands out with more passenger volume.
- Under the hood, the Pilot features a larger V-6 engine that pumps more horsepower than the Highlander.
- Inside, the Pilot outshines the Highlander with superior cargo capacity and standard one-touch fold-flat second-row seats.
- While both can tow up to 5,000 pounds1,2, only the Pilot includes a Tow Mode, giving drivers extra control when hauling.
Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander Specs
The 2025 Honda Pilot already leads the charge with a robust 3.5-liter V-6 engine that delivers an impressive 285 horsepower, giving it a clear edge in power. In comparison, the Highlander comes equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 265 horsepower.
While the Highlander does offer more torque – 310 pound-feet of torque vs. the Pilot's 262 pound-feet of torque – this advantage doesn't translate into superior performance, particularly in towing. Both SUVs are rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, meaning despite the Pilot's lower torque rating, it still offers equal towing strength.
In the Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander gas mileage comparison, the gas-powered Highlander shows a slight advantage in fuel efficiency. Even so, the Pilot impresses in areas like cargo space, passenger volume, and overall family comfort – as we'll explore in the next section.
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| 2025 Honda Pilot vs. 2025 Toyota Highlander | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Honda Pilot | 2025 Toyota Highlander | |
| Trim Levels | 6 | 5 |
| Engine | 3.5L V-6 | 2.4L 4-Cyl |
| Horsepower | 285 | 265 |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Max Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs1 | 5,000 lbs2 |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 19 / 27 / 223 | 22 / 29 / 254 |
| Seating Capacity | 7 - 8 | 7 - 8 |
| Headroom (front / second-row / third-row) | 40.5 / 40.2 / 39.3 in | 41.2 / 39.4 / 36.1 in |
| Legroom (front / second-row / third-row) | 41.0 / 40.8 / 32.5 in | 42 / 38.7 / 28 in |
| Hip Room (front / second-row / third-row) | 58.4 / 57.4 / 44.6 in | 57.2 / 57 / 45.6 in |
| Shoulder Room (front / second-row / third-row) | 61.9 / 61.7 / 59.5 in | 59 / 58.7 / 55 in |
| Passenger Volume | 158.4 cu ft | 141.8 cu ft |
| Max Cargo Space | 113.7 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft |
Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander Size
Which SUV is a better family choice: Highlander or Pilot? Both vehicles are three-row SUVs capable of carrying up to eight passengers. However, things get more interesting when you compare Honda Pilot versus Toyota Highlander configurations.
The Highlander offers five gas-powered trims, but only the entry-level LE trim comes standard with eight-passenger seating. The rest – XLE, Limited, XSE, and Platinum – can seat up to seven passengers unless upgraded with optional seating configurations in select trims like the XLE and Limited.
In contrast, the Honda stays true to its family SUV identity, offering standard eight-passenger seating across nearly all six Honda Pilot trim levels. The only exception is the TrailSport trim, which features a rugged, adventure-focused setup with seating for seven. Plus, you'll have more room for groceries and equipment with greater cargo capability on the Pilot at 113.7 cubic feet (84.3 cubic feet on the Highlander).
The Highlander technically offers more front headroom at 41.2 inches, but this measurement is only for its base trim. As you move up the lineup, this number drops to as low as 38.4 inches.
In comparison, the Pilot provides a consistent 40.5 inches of front headroom in the first two trims, with a slightly reduced 39.1 inches in the higher models. You'll also find more headroom, legroom, and shoulder room in the second and third rows of the Pilot. The Honda additionally shines with a max passenger volume of 158.4 cubic feet compared to the Toyota SUV's 41.8 cubic feet.
2025 Honda Pilot: The More Family-Friendly Option
Whether it's a new or used Honda Pilot, this SUV stands out for several reasons, but its commitment to having a spacious, family-friendly design with outdoor performance and a reasonable starting price is what makes it a superior choice among three-row options.
If you're still deciding between a two-row or three-row SUV, the Honda Pilot vs. Honda Passportoffers a great comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which SUV has more passenger space: Pilot or Highlander?
Both the 2025 Pilot and Highlander are three-row SUVs offering seating for up to eight passengers. However, a closer look at the Highlander vs. Pilot specs reveals that the Pilot offers more overall passenger volume – up to 158.4 cubic feet – compared to the maximum 141.8 cubic feet on the Highlander. This difference translates to a more spacious and comfortable ride on the Pilot.
Which SUV is better for towing: Pilot or Highlander?
The Honda Pilot and Highlander both offer a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. However, the Pilot inspires greater confidence for drivers who need to tow, thanks to its more robust V-6 engine and the addition of an available Tow Drive Mode (a mode not found in the Highlander). This specialized mode enhances towing performance and control.
Does the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander offer a hybrid version?
Currently, the Honda Pilot does not have a hybrid version of this popular three-row SUV. However, a hybrid variant is expected to arrive in the near future – potentially as early as 2026 – as Honda continues its commitment to meeting the growing demand for eco-friendly SUVs. In contrast, the Toyota Highlander offers a range of hybrid models.
Carl Remalia
09/15/2024
I had a great experience at DARCARS Honda of Fairfax thanks to Sam's outstanding customer service. He went to extraordinary to ensure I got exactly what I needed. He understood I wanted a certain color and performed searches outside of business hours to help locate exactly what I was looking for. Sam had a great attitude and continued to stay in contact with me to ensure that we were working hard to meet my requirements. Based on his great attitude and customer service, I ended up purchasing the 2025 Black Edition Pilot and I am very happy with my purchase. Thanks for everything, and I pray you continue to have great success at DARCARS Honda of Fairfax.
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1Towing requires accessory towing equipment. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
2Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. "Added vehicle equipment" includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle's exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. [Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.] Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner's Manual for limitations.
3Based on 2025 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, and other factors.
4Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.