When it comes to three-row family SUVs, the 2023 Toyota Highlander and the 2023 Honda Pilot emerge as two popular contenders in the competitive mid-size SUV market. Families seeking spacious interiors, advanced safety features, and reliable performance often find themselves drawn between these two Japanese models. Whereas the Highlander has been one of the best selling models in the class, Honda's latest 4th-gen Pilot is looking for a slice of the pie.

This comprehensive comparison goes deep into these vehicles, examining their performance capabilities, exterior designs, innovative interior features, and overall strengths. By looking at these key aspects, you'll have the information necessary to make an informed decision about which SUV is ideal for your family's needs. So, let's uncover what these three-row family SUVs are all about!

Related: Here's What A Fully Loaded 2023 Toyota Highlander Costs

Performance And Efficiency

The 2023 Toyota Highlander comes standard with a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four, generating 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Its power is managed through an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring seamless gear shifts. The Highlander also offers an optional hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for improved fuel efficiency.

The 2023 Honda Pilot, on the other hand, is equipped with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, making it no slouch in terms of performance. It is paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission. While both SUVs are on par when it comes to gas mileage, the Highlander Hybrid without a doubt is the most efficient in this comparison, with a combined 35 MPG.

Performance Specifications

Related: The 2023 Toyota Highlander Turbo Is Torque-Happy and Eco-Friendly

Establishing A Presence On The Road

Both the Toyota Highlander and the Honda Pilot have their own unique exterior styles that are sure to catch your eye. These vehicles are designed to make a lasting impression on the road with their striking appearance and distinctive design. From its bold front grille to the dynamic LED headlights, the Toyota Highlander commands attention from every angle. Despite its age, this SUV means business with an aerodynamic shape and muscular lines complemented by wheel sizes ranging between 18 - 20 inches. Toyota didn't hold back either with their color options offering a large list of nine total colors which are:

• Magnetic gray metallic
• Celestial silver metallic
• Midnight black metallic
• Blueprint
• Cypress
• Cement
• Moondust
• Ruby flare pearl
• Wind chill pearl

Built more like a 1950s refrigerator, the latest-gen Honda Pilot has a more bold, more square and rugged appearance. The aggressive front grille with its LED headlights gives it a strong presence on the road. On top trims, its exterior design is complemented by stylish chrome accents that add to its appeal. Wheel sizes range between 18 and 20 inches. Honda's color options are one shy of Toyota's offering eight options:

• Diffused Sky Blue Pearl
• Crystal Black Pearl
• Lunar Silver Metallic
• Modern Steel Metallic
• Obsidian Blue Pearl
• Platinum White Pearl
• Radiant Red Metallic II
• Sonic Gray Pearl

Related: Everything You Need to Know About the 2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport

Comparing Interior Quality And Comfort

Stepping inside, both the 2023 Toyota Highlander and the 2023 Honda Pilot offer spacious and comfortable cabins, ensuring a pleasant ride for all occupants. The Highlander features high-quality materials and a thoughtfully designed interior with user-friendly controls. It's well-insulated cabin and acoustic glass on the driver and passenger windows minimize noise. The Highlander comfortably seats up to eight passengers, with ample headroom and legroom in all three rows.

Similarly, the Honda Pilot boasts a well-appointed interior with comfortable seating and versatile cargo space. Its configurable seating allows for eight passengers and cargo combinations, catering to different needs. Honda took a more simple approach when designing the interior. The goal was to have ease of controls and less distraction giving it a premium feel from the inside. They even brought back the storage tray in the dash like from previous Pilot models.

Interior Dimensions

Related: 2023 Honda Pilot Vs. 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander

Advanced Features And Safety In Both Models

Both SUVs come well-equipped with modern amenities for better convenience and connectivity. The Toyota Highlander offers a multimedia display with a 12.3-inch touchscreen in the Platinum and Limited trims or a 7.0-inch touchscreen in hybrid models, smartphone integration capabilities, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. It also includes advanced safety features as part of Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, such as forward collision warning, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.

Similarly, the Honda Pilot provides up to a user-friendly 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone connectivity, and a comprehensive suite of safety features through the Honda Sensing package. These safety features include collision mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, road departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control. They both prioritize safety and aim to provide peace of mind for families on the road. The Highlander received an overall five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, while the Honda Pilot is yet to be tested.

Related: Top 10 Features Of The 2023 Toyota Highlander

The Final Verdict: Toyota Highlander Or Honda Pilot?

Ultimately, the decision between the 2023 Toyota Highlander and the 2023 Honda Pilot depends on individual preferences, priorities, and lifestyle requirements. If you prioritize a refined driving experience, upscale cabin materials, and a sleek appearance, the Toyota Highlander may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you lean towards a rugged exterior, versatile interior, and practicality, the Honda Pilot could be the SUV that aligns better with your needs. The all-new Trailsport trim of the Pilot builds upon this with additional off-road-specific hardware and all-terrain tires.

Another factor to consider is the pricing - They are not too far from each other. The 2023 Toyota Highlander Base L trim model comes to $36,620 while the fully loaded Platinum AWD model comes to $53,025. Meanwhile, a 2023 Honda Pilot Base LX trim model FWD is going to cost you $35,950, and for their top-of-the-line Pilot Elite trim model AWD you're looking at spending $52,030.

2023 Toyota Highlander Price

2023 Honda Pilot Price