Comparison: Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander

If you’re in the market for a full-size SUV（with an Android Car Gps） with three rows of seats, there’s good reason to consider both the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander. How do the two compare? Honda’s top-of-the-line trim for the Pilot is the Touring model. At lower trims the Pilot clearly pulls ahead of the Highlander in terms of value for its long list of standard features; at this higher level, it’s a full-on battle royale. The Pilot is all-new for the 2016 model year. While lesser trims get a six-speed automatic, the Pilot’s Touring trim has an exclusive nine-speed auto box to pair with the 3.5-litre V6 that comes with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters. That, plus engine auto stop-start technology, combine to make a noticeable dent in the Pilot’s fuel efficiency numbers in city driving. Of these two SUVs, this one feels more car-like to drive: it’s lighter in handling and has a slightly tighter turning radius, but it lags behind in off-road credentials. The Pilot has a well-designed cabin storage area — just not quite as well-designed as the Highlander’s. But it does have a no-slip tray for a smartphone, plus the multi-tiered door storage is nice and the push-button gear selector keeps the centre console space feeling airy. The Honda is the clear winner for cargo capacity, delivering up to 717 litres more space than in the Toyota when all of the rear seats are folded. What about install an Android Car Stereo？ The differences between the two vehicles are subtle on this point. Both have a heated steering wheel, heated and cooled front seats, heated second-row bucket seats, and three-zone climate control. I found the Pilot’s front seats less comfortable than the Highlander’s, but I also found that the Pilot’s third row was significantly more usable, especially for adults. Neither of these cars is a standout here. Honda’s current generation of infotainment system consistently scores low on usability since every control is integrated into the touchscreen, including volume and tuning. The automaker is redeeming itself somewhat by integrating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into some products, but those apps haven’t made it to the Pilot as of yet. Those with kids may wish to note, however, that the Pilot’s top two trims have an integrated rear-facing Car Dvd Player, while the Highlander does not.