A FEW REASONS TO BUY A 2023 HONDA PILOT INSTEAD OF A 2023 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER
A FEW REASONS TO BUY A 2023 HONDA PILOT INSTEAD OF A 2023 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER
Posted on September 5, 2023
The 2023 Honda Pilot has been redesigned and improved this year, offering even more space, more efficient performance, and a wider array of features. The already very popular Honda Pilot also gets a new TrailSport model designed for more off-road usage with a distinct and rugged design. These improvements and additions to the Honda Pilot lineup make the three-row midsize SUV from Honda, which was already leading its segment in interior space and versatility, even more appealing. Although it has quite a bit of competition in the form of models like the 2023 Toyota Highlander, the 2023 Honda Pilot has what it takes to stand out. Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider a 2023 Honda Pilot instead of a Toyota Highlander.
You will get a lot more space in the 2023 Honda Pilot
The 2023 Pilot already gave you more interior space and cargo capacity than any other midsize three-row SUV in its class. The 2023 model takes things even further by giving you 60 mm of additional rear legroom in the second row and 16 extra millimeters in the third row. The second-row seats can even incline up to 10° to provide enhanced comfort. The Pilot can seat seven or eight passengers and provides one of the largest third rows in the segment. There is ample storage space, including an area to put a tablet in the dashboard, and 14 total cupholders that can fit 32-ounce bottles.
In the back, you get over 3,200 L of total cargo space with 635 L behind the third row. You also get 1,702 L behind the second row, nearly 350 extra litres compared to what the 2023 Toyota Highlander offers. The Highlander also offers just 453 L behind the third row. You also get two extra centimeters of second-row headroom and a full 12 cm of extra third-row legroom in the 2023 Pilot compared to the Highlander.
Better performance
The 2023 Honda Pilot features a proven 3.5-litre V6 that delivers 285 hp with 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine has been improved this year to deliver better efficiency. The Toyota Highlander used to feature a V6, but Toyota made the switch to a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder last year. Although a turbocharged engine does have advantages, when driving a three-row SUV, some buyers might feel that it is a bit underpowered and not necessarily aligned with the needs of this type of vehicle. It delivers 264 hp, which is less than what the Pilot offers. Despite both models offering 5,000 pounds of total towing capacity, you will find that having a V6 engine has multiple advantages in terms of towing, making the process easier when you're going up hills or taking off with a camper or boat in tow.
Better off-road capability
Last but not least, the 2023 Honda Pilot introduced a new TrailSport version that features all-terrain tires and more impressive underbody protection this year. This model also features a higher ground clearance and an advanced hill descent control system to navigate tougher terrain. More rugged suspension and chassis improvements also highlight the TrailSport model. The 2023 Toyota Highlander doesn't have an off-road version, and overall, it is much less confident and capable off the beaten path.
Comparison Overview: 2023 Honda Pilot vs 2023 Toyota Highlander
| Feature | 2023 Honda Pilot | 2023 Toyota Highlander |
| Standard Powertrain | 3.5-liter V6 | 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 285 hp | 264 hp |
| Cargo Space | - 3,291 L total | - 2,391 L total |
| - 1,702 L (behind second row) | 1,371 L (behind second row) | |
| - 635 L (behind third row) | - 453 L (behind third row) |
Give us a call today to learn more about how the 2023 Honda Pilot stands out from the 2023 Toyota Highlander.
