2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2021 Honda Pilot

The 2021 Honda Pilot aimed to balance styling with reliability, safety, comfort, and performance. Despite efforts to enhance its rugged appearance with a 2019 refresh and a 2020 Black Edition, the exterior design remained polarizing. The Pilot offered seven trims, from the base LX to the upscale Black Edition, with prices ranging from $32,250 to $49,920. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for an additional cost. The Black Edition featured exclusive black leather upholstery with red accents, but its black mats were a challenge for pet owners. The interior boasted quality materials, though the design felt more like a minivan, which, along with its exterior, did not appeal to everyone.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma, giving it a rugged front appearance, but the side design introduced a softer, somewhat disjointed look. The rear echoed the trapezoidal grille, but the overall design felt less cohesive compared to competitors like the Kia Telluride and Jeep Grand Cherokee. Inside, the asymmetrical dash featured a metallic styling element and a high-mounted infotainment screen. The Bronze Edition introduced light grey fabric upholstery with a pattern that seemed more suited to paper towels, raising concerns about durability. The Softex synthetic leather felt more like vinyl, and the third row had an uncomfortable armrest, but the Highlander remained a popular choice due to its hybrid status.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth and refined power delivery. The available torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system enhanced traction and handling, with driving modes for various conditions. Fuel-saving technologies included variable-cylinder management and automatic engine stop/start, achieving an EPA rating of 22 mpg combined. The Pilot's suspension provided a comfortable ride and athletic handling, though off-road capability was limited by its ground clearance and tire type.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT. It offered standard front-wheel drive, with an optional all-wheel-drive system using an electric motor for the rear axle. The Highlander reached 60 mph in just over 8 seconds. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick initial response, but the engine's hum became a drone under heavy acceleration. Braking was smooth, with regenerative braking seamlessly transitioning to physical brakes. The ride was soft yet controlled, with a quiet cabin enhancing comfort, though the engine noise was noticeable under strain.

The 2021 Honda Pilot offered ample space for families, seating up to eight with a second-row bench. The front seats were comfortable, with the driver's seat offering 10-way power adjustment. Second-row captain’s chairs were optional, providing comfort and sliding for third-row access. The third row was less comfortable for adults. Storage was abundant, with a large center console and power tailgate revealing 16.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 83.9 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, though the driver's armrest was awkwardly placed. Storage options included trays and a large center bin. The second row was spacious, with sliding and reclining captain’s chairs or an optional bench. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats down.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims added navigation, a WiFi hotspot, and a premium audio system. The infotainment system was adequate but lacked a tuning knob and had limited HondaLink services. The Touring trim included a rear-seat entertainment system with various connectivity options.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for top trims. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and climate controls. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa were standard, with navigation and a premium audio system available on higher trims.

The 2021 Honda Pilot included Honda Sensing with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. It received a five-star NHTSA rating and "good" IIHS ratings, though some systems lacked refinement.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid earned a five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Standard features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, though some systems needed fine-tuning.