2020 Honda Pilot vs. 2019 Toyota Highlander

For many Irvine drivers, the search for a capable 8-passenger SUV comes down to the Honda Pilot vs Toyota Highlander. When you take a closer look at these family-friendly SUVs, you’ll find that the 2020 Honda Pilot offers standard V6 power across all of its trim levels, as well as more cargo space than the 2019 Toyota Highlander. This side-by-side comparison from Weir Canyon Honda will help you decide whether the Pilot or the Highlander is the right choice for you.

Pilot or Highlander: Performance & Fuel-Efficiency

One of the first things Yorba Linda-area drivers will want to look at is how the 2020 Honda Pilot vs. 2019 Toyota Highlander compare in terms of power and fuel efficiency. Compare their specs below:

• Toyota Highlander: The 2019 Toyota Highlander comes with a standard 185-hp 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine that generates 184 lb-ft of torque. With this engine, the Highlander earns 20 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Want V6 power? You’ll have to move up to the LE V6, which costs more than the entry-level Honda Pilot LX.
• Honda Pilot: All 2020 Honda Pilot models are equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. The EPA-estimates that the Pilot can deliver up to 19 mpg city* and 27 mpg highway*.

Pilot or Highlander: Towing & Payload

A midsize SUV should provide capable towing and payload capacities, and both the Pilot and Highlander do just that. However, the Pilot stands apart as the stronger performer. The Highlander has a payload capacity of 1,486 to 1,602 pounds, and with an optional trailer hitch, the entry level LE model can tow a maximum of 1,500 pounds. The payload capacity of the Honda Pilot LX is 1,420 to 1,625 pounds, and when properly equipped it can tow up to 3,500 pounds with 2WD. If you choose to upgrade to AWD, the Pilot towing capacity is boosted to 5,000 pounds.

Pilot or Highlander: Interior Space

The Toyota Highlander interior and Honda Pilot interior can both provide seating for up to eight, but your passengers will have more room to spread out in the Pilot with its 152.9 cubic feet of passenger volume, which is eight cubic feet more than the Highlander. Even the third-row passengers enjoy more space in the Pilot, with 57.6 inches of shoulder room compared to the 55 inches offered in the Highlander.

The Honda Pilot also offers more cargo space than the Toyota Highlander:

Honda Pilot Cargo Capacity

• Behind the third row: 16.5 cubic feet
• Maximum cargo space: 83.9 cubic feet

Toyota Highlander Cargo Capacity

• Behind the third row: 13.8 cubic feet
• Maximum cargo space: 83.7 cubic feet

The extra space in the Pilot will come in handy for Anaheim families when carrying sports gear out to Barton Park, or hauling groceries from Von’s.

Test Drive a New Honda Pilot at Weir Canyon Honda

In our Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander comparison, it’s clear that the Pilot has the stronger base engine, more robust towing power, and more interior cargo space. Check out our new vehicle specials to take advantage of our latest offers, and apply for financing before stopping by our Honda dealership near Tustin. If you’d like to schedule a test drive, or if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

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