2021 Honda Pilot vs 2021 Toyota Highlander

The 2021 Honda Pilot approached the design challenge by leaning towards a more rugged and utilitarian aesthetic, attempting to shake off its somewhat bland reputation. However, despite efforts such as a refresh in 2019 and the introduction of a Black Edition, designed with trendy blacked-out features, opinions on its styling remain divided, suggesting that beauty is indeed in the eye of the beholder.

Conversely, the 2021 Toyota Highlander embraced a bold and easily recognizable design. Its assertive grille and dramatic lines, including a character line reminiscent of the Supra, made it stand out. It projected a more stylish and contemporary image, an apparent advantage in drawing attention in a notoriously homogeneous segment.

Under the hoods of both SUVs, capable 3.5-liter V6 engines reside. The Honda Pilot churns out 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Equipped with a nine-speed automatic transmission, it offers a range of driving modes suitable for various road conditions, contributing to a generally spirited driving experience.

Toyota's Highlander, generating slightly more power at 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, is paired with an eight-speed automatic. While it doesn’t promise track-level performance, enhancements in the XSE trim offer a tuned suspension that lends a more dynamic feel to the ride, showing Toyota’s intention to straddle the line between solid family hauler and enjoyable driving machine.

The Honda Pilot is spacious and capable. The three-row arrangement comfortably accommodates passengers with ample storage options sprinkled throughout the cabin. The cargo capacity stands at 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 46.8 cubic feet with these seats folded, reaching up to 83.9 cubic feet with both rear rows down, making it a solid choice for family road trips.

Toyota's Highlander similarly balances passenger comfort and cargo capability. Though the third-row seating is tighter compared to the Pilot, it compensates with more adaptive cargo space—16 cubic feet expands to 48.4 and then to 84.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, offering slightly more maximum cargo space than the Pilot.

The 2021 Pilot is well-equipped technologically, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system across most trims, with higher trims offering advanced connectivity and entertainment options like WiFi hotspot and a premium audio system. The Special Edition trim introduces desirable tech upgrades like wireless charging.

Highlander's technology offerings shine, especially from Limited trims upwards, which offer options like a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen. The integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard across the range ensures all users have access to essential connectivity functionalities.

Both SUVs come with comprehensive safety packages. Honda’s Pilot is outfitted with the Honda Sensing suite, providing robust automated systems to ensure passenger safety, although some aspects of its system—like the lane departure warning—could benefit from refinement.

The Toyota Highlander is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including cutting-edge features like intersection support for the automatic braking system, marking significant advances in safety technology offerings. It also earned top safety ratings, highlighting its credentials as a secure family vehicle.