Honda Pilot vs Toyota bZ

The 2026 Toyota bZ was offered in XLE and Limited trims, with options for single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) or dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD), and two battery sizes. The larger battery, while more expensive, provided enhanced power, performance, and range. Prices ranged from $36,495 to $46,895, including the destination charge. The XLE test vehicle featured FWD and the optional larger battery, transforming it into the XLE Plus for an additional $3,000. The vehicle's exterior was improved with body-color trim, enhancing its appeal compared to previous models. Inside, the dashboard and center console were redesigned for a cleaner look, and the fabric seats featured an upscale pattern. The 14-inch center touchscreen integrated climate controls, though the digital driver display's placement and size were less than ideal.

The 2026 Honda Pilot underwent a makeover, adopting a more truck-like appearance with a larger, blockier grille and standard roof rails. The interior retained its previous form with upgrades like larger infotainment and digital instrument panels. The top trims featured diamond quilting on the seats, adding visual flair. The Pilot's design remained practical and tastefully rugged, with a focus on utility. The interior met class expectations for material quality and construction, maintaining its reputation as a versatile midsize SUV.

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a range of power and efficiency options. The XLE FWD model with a 57.7-kWh battery delivered 165 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 236 miles and an efficiency rating of 26 kWh/100 miles. Upgrading to the 74.7-kWh battery increased horsepower to 224 and extended the range to 314 miles. Dual-motor models with the larger battery produced 338 horsepower, with varying ranges and efficiency ratings depending on the trim. The bZ's charging capabilities included compatibility with Tesla Superchargers and a 240-volt Level 2 home charger. Efficiency tests showed favorable results, though the bZ lacked one-pedal driving capability. The vehicle was comfortable for city driving but less suited for winding roads due to its tires and steering.

The 2026 Honda Pilot retained its 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. FWD was standard on lower trims, with AWD available. The Pilot's acceleration was adequate, and the V6 engine provided a confident sound. The steering was revised for improved feedback, and the Pilot handled curves confidently, though it wasn't sporty. The brake pedal effort was soft, suitable for a family SUV, with occasional subtle downshifts.

The 2026 Toyota bZ featured a skateboard-style EV platform with 8.1 inches of ground clearance, making entry and exit easy. The front seats offered eight-way power adjustment, with heated and ventilated options in the Limited trim. The bZ lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with ample storage solutions. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed comfortable seating, though foot space was limited. Cargo space was 27.7 cubic feet, expandable to 56.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2026 Honda Pilot's cabin remained spacious and versatile, with a removable second-row center seat for flexibility. The second-row seats offered ample legroom and comfort, while the third row was accessible and suitable for smaller adults. Cargo capacity was 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 112.4 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. The front seats provided generous storage options, enhancing practicality.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came with a 7-inch digital driver display and a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The driver display's placement and size were less than ideal, while the infotainment system was generally user-friendly. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with various connected service plans available. The voice assistant performed well, though the lack of a home screen and tuning knob were drawbacks.

The 2026 Honda Pilot upgraded to a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 10.2-inch digital instrument panel. The system was responsive and easy to use, with customizable shortcuts. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, though the wireless phone charger required an upgrade. The Pilot retained unique features like multiple camera angles and the Cabin Talk intercom system.

The 2026 Toyota bZ featured Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including high-beam assist, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist added subtle braking and steering inputs. The Limited trim offered additional safety features. The bZ's adaptive cruise control response was inconsistent, and the driver monitoring system was overly sensitive. IIHS ratings were mixed, with a Good rating for front-crash avoidance but Poor for headlights.

The 2026 Honda Pilot's safety features included the Honda Sensing suite, with forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Pilot's safety features generally worked well, though the forward collision warning was sensitive. The 2025 Pilot received high safety ratings, and similar scores were expected for 2026.