Generation comparison

Toyota Highlander 4th Generation (2020-present) vs Honda Pilot 4th Generation (2023-present)

Toyota Highlander 4th Generation (2020-present) studio view

4th Generation · 2020-present

Toyota Highlander

VS
Honda Pilot 4th Generation (2023-present) studio view

4th Generation · 2023-present

Honda Pilot

Reliability30% weight
6.0/10

15.80 ODI reports were recorded per 10,000 EWR-produced vehicles. “Transmission hesitation or failure” is the most frequently matched narrative (196 reports).

5.7/10

17.84 ODI reports were recorded per 10,000 EWR-produced vehicles. “Engine stall or loss of power” is the most frequently matched narrative (77 reports).

NCAP safety25% weight
10.0/10

The latest rated model year is 2025, with 5 stars. QuickCarFixes converts the conservative configuration result to its 10-point scale.

10.0/10

The latest rated model year is 2025, with 5 stars. QuickCarFixes converts the conservative configuration result to its 10-point scale.

Energy cost15% weight
8.4/10

EPA estimates $1,750–$2,550 in annual energy cost for the latest configurations. Comparable vehicles average $2,835–$3,661.

6.3/10

EPA estimates $2,800–$3,100 in annual energy cost for the latest configurations. Comparable vehicles average $2,260–$3,822.

Handling10% weight
7.0/10

Predictable responses and manageable body movement make the Highlander secure, but trim-dependent tuning and limited road feel stop it short of the sharper crossovers.

6.7/10

The Pilot feels stable and easy to place for its size, but unusually light steering and moderate roll keep it from feeling precise or connected.

Comfort8% weight
7.9/10

The Highlander is relaxed and comfortable in the first two rows, with no exceptional weakness in normal family driving.

8.0/10

Supportive seating, a settled ride, and family-friendly climate provision make the Pilot comfortable over distance.

Roominess7% weight
6.6/10

Front and second-row space is good, but the tight third row and reduced cargo room with it raised are decisive limitations.

8.6/10

All three rows are usable and the removable second-row center seat adds flexibility, although the Toyota rival holds more cargo.

Onboard electronics5% weight
7.6/10

Toyota's larger interface and wireless conveniences are current and straightforward, but not notably ahead of 2024 peers.

6.8/10

Physical usability is good, but small 7- and 9-inch screens and reported glitches leave the Pilot behind newer rivals.

Final scoreToyota Highlander leads
7.7/10head-to-head score
7.4/10head-to-head score

See how QuickCarFixes calculates and compares scores.

NHTSA ODI complaints

Reliability and recurring problems

Toyota Highlander

Reliability
6.0/10
ODI reports
1,607
Reports per 10,000 produced
15.80
Severe-event share
8.7%

Most frequently matched narratives

  1. Transmission hesitation or failure196
  2. Engine stall or loss of power88
  3. Sunroof or window glass shattered59
  4. Driver-assistance or sensor failure56
  5. Brake failure or reduced braking54

Honda Pilot

Reliability
5.7/10
ODI reports
743
Reports per 10,000 produced
17.84
Severe-event share
5.2%

Most frequently matched narratives

  1. Engine stall or loss of power77
  2. Steering assist loss or lockup62
  3. Driver-assistance or sensor failure44
  4. Brake failure or reduced braking43
  5. Sunroof or window glass shattered25
NHTSA safety data

Crash-test coverage and recalls

Toyota Highlander

NCAP score
10.0/10
Latest rated model year
2025
Recall campaigns
14
Completion rates reported
13/14
Median reported completion
84.8%
Park-it / park-outside campaigns
0 / 0

Honda Pilot

NCAP score
10.0/10
Latest rated model year
2025
Recall campaigns
8
Completion rates reported
7/8
Median reported completion
93.3%
Park-it / park-outside campaigns
0 / 0
EPA FuelEconomy.gov

Annual energy cost against comparable vehicles

Toyota Highlander

Energy-cost score
8.4/10
EPA model year
2026
Estimated annual energy cost
$1,750–$2,550
Comparable-class average
$2,835–$3,661
Difference from comparable average
-$1,911–-$285

Honda Pilot

Energy-cost score
6.3/10
EPA model year
2026
Estimated annual energy cost
$2,800–$3,100
Comparable-class average
$2,260–$3,822
Difference from comparable average
-$872–$540
Documented editorial review

Handling, comfort, space and onboard electronics

Toyota Highlander

Handling
7.0/10
Comfort
7.9/10
Roominess
6.6/10
Onboard electronics
7.6/10

Honda Pilot

Handling
6.7/10
Comfort
8.0/10
Roominess
8.6/10
Onboard electronics
6.8/10