I did a ton of research and test drove pretty much every midsize SUV within my price range (under $40k). At the end of the day it came down to the Pilot, The Highlander and the VW Atlas. At the end of the day, I came home with the 2018 Pilot EX-L yesterday. I wanted to wait to give the Subaru Ascent a chance, but unfortunately, I couldn't wait to make the purchase. To me the Pilot just rubbed me the right way. I honestly didn't like the Highlander's exterior, to me it just look too aggressive like trying to over compensate for something. Also, the interior of the Highlander looked "cheaper" than that of the Pilot (even though the Highlander was about $2k more). Anyway, I know everyone has their opinions but after spending hours talking to dealers, reading reviews and test driving midsize SUVs (within my price range), The Pilot was my choice.
Sadly in 2! Years of daily use you’ll start seeing your “leather” crack in the Honda and a lot of rattling honda isn’t what it use to be. And looking aggressive is great for an suv lol I traded my new! Honda 2016 crv touring!!! In 2 years with only 20k miles on it the seats looked like 15 years went by and I baby my cars and actually lotion up my seats none of my other Honda’s did that. After that I seen a bit to many with similar issues so I went to Toyota they still doing what they do best building shit that last
I had the 2008 Pilot and love it so much, so this year I bought the Highlander and love it so much too....next is the Subaru Ascent....:). Can't go wrong with both cars, both great, spacious, low maintenance and very reliable.
Toyota is a Shareholder in Subaru as Well. All these three Vehicles, Highlander, Pilot and Subaru are excellent Vehicles. However, Toyota has more Dealerships around the Nation and has affordable Maintenance Cost.
It's a great comparison but I would say having Apple/Android integration these days is the new bar. It's the #1 feature I use every day. And I would also say my kids love the rear entertainment system on long-haul trips, which was kind of the reason why we got a car in this category. Not having either one of these two options would have been a deal breaker for me when choosing the car.
I test drove both cars. Both were impressive. I bought the Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited because of Consumer Reports (CR) input. The December 2017 issue has a section "Our Expert Predictions Of Reliability For 2018 Cars" gives the Toyota a score of 87 vs the Honda score of 59. The data CR uses is based on a 3-year sample. I know some folks don't take CR seriously, but I do. I have been using their ratings with success for 30 years and have not been disappointed yet. I also drive my cars more than 150,000 before I sell them so reliability is key for me. CR lists the Honda's Cargo volume as 48 cubic feet vs the Toyota with 40.5 cubic feet. The Honda looked significantly bigger to me so if you are hauling stuff from Home Depot etc. the Honda would be the way to go. As mentioned the Honda has Apple Car Play and the Toyota does not which I also find to be a significant plus for the Honda. It will be interesting to see what the April 2018 Consumer Report Auto Issue says about each vehicle. I think this review is spot on you have to test both cars and see which one suits you.
I'm reviewing the CR 2018 Buying Guide and while I see the Highlander Hybrid Limited with a score of 87 as you indicated, the Pilot EX-L had a score of 74 not 59.
Chris, The December 2017 CR on page 56 under "Midsized SUVs" has the Honda Pilot reliability rated at 59. That is what I was referring to. The December 2017 article I referred to was only concerned with reliability. Looks like the Honda Pilot EX-L had an overall score of 74.
Honda Pilot 2017 has much more rooming on the head, sides and the third row. The third row in the Highlander is really a punishment room and not recommended for family trips. It has not changed in 2018 version. In addition what I appreciate in the Pilot is the excellent handling and smooth ride. The finishing in the interior in the Pilot looks a better quality than in the Highlander. I have no idea who was the "brain clumsy" who said that just because of a comfortable rooming inside necessarily means that it looks like a minivan and not like a really comfortable SUV
Gonzalo Diaz: neither 3rd row is good for long drives. Both are too small. If a large 3rd row is paramount, you need to be looking at a minivan or large class SUV
I agree 100%. I don't think a 3rd row in either vehicle was meant for long road trips---both are too small. If you have a couple of kids that you are taking to the grocery store or something, it's fine. But, having purchased the 2017 Highlander, I can attest to the back seat being extremely roomy. When the seat is moved all the way back, there is a ton of leg room. My collie jumps up onto the floor with her whole body before getting up on the seat----that's a lot of room. The Highlander drives like a car since it is built on a Camry chassis. The Pilot drives beautiful for an SUV, don't get me wrong. My previous vehicle was a Jeep Grand Cherokee, so I know how a raised SUV feels. I am quite pleased with the Highlander.
Highlander looks sleek and elegant. Pilot looks old and low key and can be mistaken for a minivan. We have 2003 and 20006 Highlanders and they drove past 250K miles without having issues. Highlander any day of the week.
I have a 2019 Highlander but have nothing against the Honda. I simply didn't care for the lower middle council area in the Pilot. As to reliability, I'd have been happy with either but glad I have a Toyota. Average life of them is 250-300k. I'm old enough I'll never get near that much. This is most likely my last vehicle.
The Highlander's rear tailgate has an independently glass that can be opened without opening the entire tailgate,. I would give it an extra point for that versatility in carrying long objects.
It is a good feature, but then the car beeps loudly at you as you drive to tell you to close the rear glass. It's almost like Toyota didn't expect you to drive with it open to carry objects.
I bought the 2017 Highlander last May and that was one of the main features that sealed the deal. The Highlander is the only SUV/crossover on the market that has the ability to open that glass on the back hatch separately from the whole hatch. I am an avid paddle boarder, and the ability to load the board through the back window is key. The Highlander also drives like a car and not an SUV because it is built on a Camry chassis. While the Pilot is very, very nice, there is a definite difference in how they handle. Not that the Pilot was bad, but the Highlander has more of a car-like feel. I am very satisfied with the Highlander. A couple things I don't like: How the roof is sloped because all moisture/wetness on the roof of the vehicle falls down onto the windshield & back window. I live in the northeast, and after the last snowstorm, I didn't clear all of the snow off the roof (because I couldn't reach it) and when I got to the stop sign at the end of my road, all the snow fell onto the windshield like an accordion. In the mornings, all the moisture/dew on the roof slides down the windshield. Also, the remote start is strange: It shuts off when you open the door & you have to start the vehicle again to put it in gear & go. My other remote start didn't do that. I know it is likely a theft deterrent thing, but it is annoying.
It's great feature. How I get around the beeping when I have my paddle board in the back is to push a little piece of cardboard in the latch where it closes. It fools the car into thinking the glass is closed. Then, to release the cardboard, just press the open button on the outside of the window. Works like a charm!
Works like a charm!! I just cut a 2x2 inch piece off a cardboard box & wrapped duct tape around it. I actually think it doesn't have to be that big.........I can't remember if I folded it in half or not..........and then to release it just push the open button. You'll hear a click & it releases the cardboard.
I have odessey and it still good, loving it, I have 174,000 miles, and it’s 13 years. My husband has pilot which is 6 years old now from the time of purchase. Both are big inside compared to Toyota. That Toyota 4 runner that my friend has and I drove it sometimes is narrow, turn narrow. I still like Honda.
4runner is absolutely different vehicle they don't share anything, only thing is people call them both SUVs, 4 runner is frame based true offroad SUV and on and on and on.
Thank you for shooting this video on the 2018 Highlander vs 2018 Pilot... exactly what I am looking for. The video is very informative and well done. Thumb up!
I have a 2005 4Runner that I'm looking to sell now and have compared the 2018 Pilot vs the 2018 Highlander. One feature I have on the 4Runner is the roll down rear lift gate window. On one occasion, I needed to transport six 14' long deck boards in the 4Runner so I strapped down a height adjustable saw horse in the rear cargo compartment and rested the boards on that and extended them about 10' out the rear window. The boards rested on the 2nd row seat back and the front on the dash with a several thick blankets as padding. Long story short, when looking at the Highlander, Pilot and Ascent, only Toyota lets the rear glass flip up, independently of the rear lift gate. I wouldn't drive more that a few miles like this, but in a jam, it makes this possible whereas the Honda and Subaru do not. Another perk of the open able glass is when a receiver hitch mounted cargo carrier tray is installed on the back of the vehicle (like for camping or extra room for a long vacation. You can access a few items in the rear cargo area, but not possible with only flip up doors. EDIT: Went with a 2019 Highlander but at the dealer, I did notice the new model year Highlanders 2020 and newer do not have the flip up glass feature that the earlier models have.
an average buyer look at the purpose of the vehicle. the pilot seat 8 people, the 3rd row is much bigger and comfortable than the highlander but the highlander is smaller and easier to park. the highlander is really comparable with the sorento, bot the pilot.
Great insight on usability info on winter driving not found elsewhere. Wish there was even more including long distance driving to ski country on a snowy night.
The Highlander has a nicer interior and better styling..The Pilot is quicker and handled better but the Toyota I bought looked really sharp decked in cranberry red with running boards and luggage rack.
I'm debating between these two right now. I'm partial to Honda but I've owned both an Accord and a 4runner. I think they're equal in terms of reliability and I like the slightly bigger size of the Pilot but the Toyota's exterior looks better though the interior seems cheap. I don't like the touch controls on either. It's a really tough decision.
I own a 2017 Honda Pilot and the transmission is terrible. If are looking to buy one please read the article from car and driver, they been having this issue with SUV since 2016. I didn’t know until I got stuck with it, and started looking up what I could do as a consumer. So far the dealer has been no help.
What issues have you encountered? I have a 2016 elite and it’s been bulletproof so far. I get 28-33 on the highway at 70-77 with the 9 speed so I also appreciate the extra cog.
I went straight to the Highlander over the Pilot based on four points: much better long term quality of the Highlander, questionable Honda automatic transmission, my recent experience of a lemon Pilot, my 15 yr old super reliable Camry. Of course, better year end deal from Toyota dealer helped as well.
Best Competitive Review. 👍Pilot is slightly Pricier than Highlander and Toyota Dealers are more flexible in making the Deals. So I give 1 more point to Toyota.
We had the 2014 Highlander Limited Platinum Edition and the car was completely totaled in a local road freak accident because the Panoramic moon roof glass was heavier and it displaced damaging both t sides of the car which has the Windshield support and also the Chassis (as told by the Insurance company). We currently own a 2018 Honda Pilot, the front windshield is huge and open gives you a better view and the 20 inch wheels does add to it. We all personally like the Honda Pilot, since it drives smooth and we feel we are inside a Premium car. Safety wise, we feel more secure in a Pilot since our whole family was inside the Highlander in that freak accident. Some points you missed to cover, the black button on the Honda lets you lock the car with one click without the keys, which usually is inside my handbag hiding. Also you get 2 Bluetooth headphones to listen to music without using the speakers, which is a big plus. The moon roof in the front row can be opened for fresh air and the moon roof in the 2nd and 3rd row for lighting. On a hot day the highlander used to smell like plastic burning but we haven't smelt the inside the Pilot, given that we don't even have car freshener, it still smells fresh. The map is really helpful and it provides 2 different views for better accuracy. We got the Black Forest Mist, which is a dual metallic color, in bright Sunlight you can see the deep dark green and in the evening it looks like metallic black. We have had the Pilot for a month now, and we really love it as a family.
As someone who plotted his route and gas stopping points only to find out that the town that covered the 2 exits I could have gotten off to refuel had a power outage. The car that I had got 483mi per tank. I was on mil 480 when I finally got to a gas station because I had to go an additional 18mi. So to me those 7 mile matter because I would have been walking 4mi if I was in the Highlander in that case to get gas while I would have made it with 3 mi to spare in the Pilot. Plus...7 miles will add up over the span of the year. About 118 refuels equals about 50k miles driven...thus 2 less fill ups for the Pilot. Will most people care...nope...but some will...who have been close to running out of fuel before.
Hi! We will probably compare them once the all-new Sanfa Fe comes out this summer. In the time being, the current Hyundai is a pretty old product but you could definitely get a much better deal on one vs. the Highlander is that's one of your priorities. Hope this helps!
For such a thorough review why did you basically skip the third row?? I wish you at least pulled the seats back to show how limited the legroom was on both. Thanks for everything else though 😀
I just bought the Pilot over the highlander. They are both nice but a few notable things and reasons why are.. Apple Carplay, rear entertainment system and standard remote start on the Elite and one touch 3rd row. The remote start on the highlander they advised I could get but at an additional cost of almost $700
I’ve owned both Honda and Toyota. Honda for some reason cannot engineer great working transmissions. Toyota makes a better more reliable product overall. If you are planning to keep your car for a long time, Toyota Highlander should be the obvious pick as it’ll have less headaches with a more reliable drivetrain and transmission.
Absolutely this. Honda somehow keep getting their trans messed up. Unknown in the Toyota world. The early 2000 Accords were notorious for trans failures. Common with most Honda's sadly.
Nice comparison Car Confections! To be honest, I think the Highlander looks a little too truck like and it doesn’t offer HID or LED headlights. I prefer the looks of the Pilot simply because it looks more like a crossover than a truck. It also offers LED headlights. But it’s my opinion.
im in love with the highlander, i hate all that techy stuff the honda have. i take a simple toyota highlander easy to use. i’m just looking for a vehicle that can last me for a while. plus i can installed auto start and led for much cheaper price on base model.
We own a 2013 Pilot purchased used, my biggest complaint on the Pilot would be something that hasn't needed doing yet and was not in your glitz review, now for the substance. Replacing the belt that drives the overhead cams, at which time I understand its time to replace waterpump and thus anti-freeze. If not mistaken the Toyota uses a chain, a big plus. Our transmission has been fine but I took it to Honda dealership, questioned them on service and found they were not going to replace the oil for the transfer case, the desk clerk said they never do unless the transmission need rebuilding.... we had him confirm this with a mechanic then bought the other fluids and went elsewhere to find the transfer case fluid that they never stocked, then had a local mechanic replace everything while watching. The transmissions are different to traditional American and Honda wants transmission oil changed every 2nd oil change as the only oil filter is internal and you are only changing about 1/2 the oil as the other 1/2 is in torque converter. They don't store a bunch of oil in a big transmission pan, the vehicle was built or at least assembled in the U.S by the way. I probably would have purchased a Toyota because of the Cam chain vs belt issue but a used Pilot was available at a good price. We do like the 2013, and on that year the rear window can be opened separately , the button is above the licence plate and below the chrome trim that goes across under the window. I mention this as it was mentioned in comments as a plus to the Toyota, it might still be included on the Honda. Another reason we went with the Honda over Toyota is the dealership was in town vs 200 miles away for the Toyota so we can buy parts should they ever be needed. Will we buy another in spite that we love our 2013 current Pilot, probably not, its great on the highway but big for city parking lots. Actually looking at the Honda BR-V , though may keep both, 1 for highway and 1 for around town. Both should have points taken off for Sun Roofs, the biggest waste in autos.
I had a Highlander and loved it. Im considering buying another one but I'm also looking at the Pilot or Nissan Armada. I have 4 boys, need 3 rows and don't want a mini van. Decisions!
The gas mileage of the Armada is HORRIBLE!!!! I bought a 2017 Highlander in May of last year, and if you're looking for a 3rd row for long drives, don't get a Highlander or a Pilot----the 3rd row is small on both. If you're looking for a large 3rd row, look into the GMC Yukon XL or Tahoe XL.
Honda will not warranty their own product. My seat belt cover kept popping up and their Honda regional rep denied the warranty claim. She said we must have taken the seal belt cover off and broken it. Why in the world would we take the seat belt cover off, what excuse do you guys come up with? Honda assign regional rep and their main job is to deny people warranty. Oh my steering wheel is peeling and of course they said is normal wear. Honestly a car with 30,000 miles should not peel and if it does it should be abnormal wear. My other cars has 300,000 and 180,000 miles and they are not peeling
Pilot trans is NOT a advantage. Highlander wheel s on limited are PLASTIC covers/hubcaps. The mile max is not a issue. Pilot interior looks horrible. HL stereo regardless of JBL or not is rather poor. (as you noted). 1Button is nice. Better Infotainment is also nice, also the cargo bucket you missed.Pilot more roomy space is nice also. But , just not enough to get an uglier car with 9speed. I watched a video saying 2019 HL will be back to 6spd.
I like the Honda Pilot overall.. But... The Toyota Highlander has a MUCH better more traditional (easier to use and read) dashboard/gauges and better more traditional shifter. The Honda Pilot's steering wheel is very nice but the dashboard is a unattractive, terrible design - and same for the terrible push button shifter on the Pilot. If only Honda would have a MUCH more traditional interior dashboard layout and a standard traditional shifter, I would take the Pilot. But between these two the way they are now, I would take the Toyota Highlander,
I think the Honda was better this is just my opinion. You could have gave Honda a few extra points. Like a better gas cap and more space for cups for the family. Also not sure if the Toyota had heated steering wheel. Just to mention a few.
Honda Pilot exterior design is flawless, but interior is garbage, they need to step it up, the gauges especially look like a toy, come on Honda, and what's with the foot pedal parking brake, are they going back to 90's trend? Just put a simple parking brake button. And Honda, Honda, Honda, volume knob!!! This shouldn't take you 3 years to fix!!! Snap out of it Honda!!!
My wife went checked them both out, and bought with the Toyota platinum because of the birds eye view thing. Personally I think they’re both full of useless bullshit and just over priced minivans for people who don’t want a mini van but what do I know my daily driver switches between a 79 F350 ranger and a 81 jeep CJ scrambler depending on the weather and what I’m doing. so I’m probably not the best judge for this kind of vehicle.
I’ve taken both for a test drive. Does anyone else hate how Toyota’s have a shitty acceleration point? It’s like either too damn weak or whips your neck too hard, there’s no in between. The Honda acceleration is pretty nice and smooth. Seems like it’s not just the high lander but it’s most Toyota’s
test drove a highlander yesterday and thought the same thing. but driving it pretty conservatively, I didn't get the whip action, just felt weak. haven't driven a pilot yet. hmmm.....
New Hondas are garbage. Civics are having a worst recall for defective piston rings, repeated warning lights even after software update, CVT failing within 20k miles etc etc. Just stay away from new Hondas!
In my 65+ years I have read, watched and listened to tons of car reviews. This is the best one I have ever seen. TY!
David Weinberg Thanks so much! We appreciate that!
David Weinbe
This may be the best car introduction I’ve ever seen! Straight to the point prizes sound side by side examples. Wow!
Thank you so much! Glad you like it!
I did a ton of research and test drove pretty much every midsize SUV within my price range (under $40k). At the end of the day it came down to the Pilot, The Highlander and the VW Atlas. At the end of the day, I came home with the 2018 Pilot EX-L yesterday. I wanted to wait to give the Subaru Ascent a chance, but unfortunately, I couldn't wait to make the purchase. To me the Pilot just rubbed me the right way. I honestly didn't like the Highlander's exterior, to me it just look too aggressive like trying to over compensate for something. Also, the interior of the Highlander looked "cheaper" than that of the Pilot (even though the Highlander was about $2k more). Anyway, I know everyone has their opinions but after spending hours talking to dealers, reading reviews and test driving midsize SUVs (within my price range), The Pilot was my choice.
Congrats!
Sadly in 2! Years of daily use you’ll start seeing your “leather” crack in the Honda and a lot of rattling honda isn’t what it use to be. And looking aggressive is great for an suv lol I traded my new! Honda 2016 crv touring!!! In 2 years with only 20k miles on it the seats looked like 15 years went by and I baby my cars and actually lotion up my seats none of my other Honda’s did that. After that I seen a bit to many with similar issues so I went to Toyota they still doing what they do best building shit that last
Older Honda are good still got my 2008 pilot and accord 2008 runs good..Could be new builds
Do you still have this car? How's it coming along?
@@spectatorofallthings6587 that is total BS. I have a 2017. No cracking leather, everything is in perfect shape.
I had the 2008 Pilot and love it so much, so this year I bought the Highlander and love it so much too....next is the Subaru Ascent....:). Can't go wrong with both cars, both great, spacious, low maintenance and very reliable.
Toyota is a Shareholder in Subaru as Well.
All these three Vehicles, Highlander, Pilot and Subaru are excellent Vehicles.
However, Toyota has more Dealerships around the Nation and has affordable Maintenance Cost.
Japanese brand.
It's a great comparison but I would say having Apple/Android integration these days is the new bar. It's the #1 feature I use every day. And I would also say my kids love the rear entertainment system on long-haul trips, which was kind of the reason why we got a car in this category. Not having either one of these two options would have been a deal breaker for me when choosing the car.
1 minute in and the music is easy and the voice isn't over bearing,,, good.
I bought 2017 Highlander Platium last year. Its styling in/out and the 360 degrees surround view camera that made my choice over the Pilot.
I test drove both cars. Both were impressive. I bought the Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited because of Consumer Reports (CR) input. The December 2017 issue has a section "Our Expert Predictions Of Reliability For 2018 Cars" gives the Toyota a score of 87 vs the Honda score of 59. The data CR uses is based on a 3-year sample. I know some folks don't take CR seriously, but I do. I have been using their ratings with success for 30 years and have not been disappointed yet. I also drive my cars more than 150,000 before I sell them so reliability is key for me. CR lists the Honda's Cargo volume as 48 cubic feet vs the Toyota with 40.5 cubic feet. The Honda looked significantly bigger to me so if you are hauling stuff from Home Depot etc. the Honda would be the way to go. As mentioned the Honda has Apple Car Play and the Toyota does not which I also find to be a significant plus for the Honda. It will be interesting to see what the April 2018 Consumer Report Auto Issue says about each vehicle. I think this review is spot on you have to test both cars and see which one suits you.
I'm reviewing the CR 2018 Buying Guide and while I see the Highlander Hybrid Limited with a score of 87 as you indicated, the Pilot EX-L had a score of 74 not 59.
Chris, The December 2017 CR on page 56 under "Midsized SUVs" has the Honda Pilot reliability rated at 59. That is what I was referring to. The December 2017 article I referred to was only concerned with reliability. Looks like the Honda Pilot EX-L had an overall score of 74.
Right choice, nothing in its class can really come close to the Highlander.
John Callery got any winning lottery numbers?
Good job, but what about how they drive, suspension, ride, handling, interior noise comparison?
Just luv that dashboard storage in highlander, extremely practical
Great reviews, made comparing cars much easier for me. So comprehensive, thank you!
You're welcome! Glad you enjoyed, Jill! 🙂
Honda Pilot 2017 has much more rooming on the head, sides and the third row. The third row in the Highlander is really a punishment room and not recommended for family trips. It has not changed in 2018 version. In addition what I appreciate in the Pilot is the excellent handling and smooth ride. The finishing in the interior in the Pilot looks a better quality than in the Highlander. I have no idea who was the "brain clumsy" who said that just because of a comfortable rooming inside necessarily means that it looks like a minivan and not like a really comfortable SUV
Gonzalo Diaz: neither 3rd row is good for long drives. Both are too small. If a large 3rd row is paramount, you need to be looking at a minivan or large class SUV
I agree 100%. I don't think a 3rd row in either vehicle was meant for long road trips---both are too small. If you have a couple of kids that you are taking to the grocery store or something, it's fine. But, having purchased the 2017 Highlander, I can attest to the back seat being extremely roomy. When the seat is moved all the way back, there is a ton of leg room. My collie jumps up onto the floor with her whole body before getting up on the seat----that's a lot of room. The Highlander drives like a car since it is built on a Camry chassis. The Pilot drives beautiful for an SUV, don't get me wrong. My previous vehicle was a Jeep Grand Cherokee, so I know how a raised SUV feels. I am quite pleased with the Highlander.
ONG i love my 2017 Honda Pilot touring cr
Highlander looks sleek and elegant. Pilot looks old and low key and can be mistaken for a minivan. We have 2003 and 20006 Highlanders and they drove past 250K miles without having issues. Highlander any day of the week.
I would choose the Toyota Highlander because I like how they keep it simple to use
I have a 2019 Highlander but have nothing against the Honda. I simply didn't care for the lower middle council area in the Pilot. As to reliability, I'd have been happy with either but glad I have a Toyota. Average life of them is 250-300k. I'm old enough I'll never get near that much. This is most likely my last vehicle.
Best ever review that I have come across!
Glad you liked it!
Yep 👍.
The Highlander's rear tailgate has an independently glass that can be opened without opening the entire tailgate,. I would give it an extra point for that versatility in carrying long objects.
It is a good feature, but then the car beeps loudly at you as you drive to tell you to close the rear glass. It's almost like Toyota didn't expect you to drive with it open to carry objects.
I bought the 2017 Highlander last May and that was one of the main features that sealed the deal. The Highlander is the only SUV/crossover on the market that has the ability to open that glass on the back hatch separately from the whole hatch. I am an avid paddle boarder, and the ability to load the board through the back window is key. The Highlander also drives like a car and not an SUV because it is built on a Camry chassis. While the Pilot is very, very nice, there is a definite difference in how they handle. Not that the Pilot was bad, but the Highlander has more of a car-like feel. I am very satisfied with the Highlander. A couple things I don't like: How the roof is sloped because all moisture/wetness on the roof of the vehicle falls down onto the windshield & back window. I live in the northeast, and after the last snowstorm, I didn't clear all of the snow off the roof (because I couldn't reach it) and when I got to the stop sign at the end of my road, all the snow fell onto the windshield like an accordion. In the mornings, all the moisture/dew on the roof slides down the windshield. Also, the remote start is strange: It shuts off when you open the door & you have to start the vehicle again to put it in gear & go. My other remote start didn't do that. I know it is likely a theft deterrent thing, but it is annoying.
It's great feature. How I get around the beeping when I have my paddle board in the back is to push a little piece of cardboard in the latch where it closes. It fools the car into thinking the glass is closed. Then, to release the cardboard, just press the open button on the outside of the window. Works like a charm!
Awesome I didn't think of trying that. Thanks!
Works like a charm!! I just cut a 2x2 inch piece off a cardboard box & wrapped duct tape around it. I actually think it doesn't have to be that big.........I can't remember if I folded it in half or not..........and then to release it just push the open button. You'll hear a click & it releases the cardboard.
I have odessey and it still good, loving it, I have 174,000 miles, and it’s 13 years. My husband has pilot which is 6 years old now from the time of purchase. Both are big inside compared to Toyota. That Toyota 4 runner that my friend has and I drove it sometimes is narrow, turn narrow. I still like Honda.
Personally im not the minivan type of guy that is why I like the highlander a lot more
4runner is absolutely different vehicle they don't share anything, only thing is people call them both SUVs, 4 runner is frame based true offroad SUV and on and on and on.
Thank you for shooting this video on the 2018 Highlander vs 2018 Pilot... exactly what I am looking for. The video is very informative and well done. Thumb up!
So glad you found it helpful! Thanks for tuning in!
I have a 2005 4Runner that I'm looking to sell now and have compared the 2018 Pilot vs the 2018 Highlander. One feature I have on the 4Runner is the roll down rear lift gate window. On one occasion, I needed to transport six 14' long deck boards in the 4Runner so I strapped down a height adjustable saw horse in the rear cargo compartment and rested the boards on that and extended them about 10' out the rear window. The boards rested on the 2nd row seat back and the front on the dash with a several thick blankets as padding.
Long story short, when looking at the Highlander, Pilot and Ascent, only Toyota lets the rear glass flip up, independently of the rear lift gate. I wouldn't drive more that a few miles like this, but in a jam, it makes this possible whereas the Honda and Subaru do not. Another perk of the open able glass is when a receiver hitch mounted cargo carrier tray is installed on the back of the vehicle (like for camping or extra room for a long vacation. You can access a few items in the rear cargo area, but not possible with only flip up doors.
EDIT: Went with a 2019 Highlander but at the dealer, I did notice the new model year Highlanders 2020 and newer do not have the flip up glass feature that the earlier models have.
You forgot the puddle lights on the side mirrors that display "Highlander" on the ground as a projection.
honda pilot looks to much like a van. the highlander is more sleeker and more SUV like.
randomrazr I agree and I have the Pilot LOL.
an average buyer look at the purpose of the vehicle.
the pilot seat 8 people, the 3rd row is much bigger and comfortable than the highlander but the highlander is smaller and easier to park.
the highlander is really comparable with the sorento, bot the pilot.
randomrazr agree
That's probably because the Pilot is based on the Odyssey platform
thats the issue tho, people want to stray away from the family wagon/van look. hence why suvs are beomcing ever so popular.
Aftermarket LEDs can be installed...
Great insight on usability info on winter driving not found elsewhere. Wish there was even more including long distance driving to ski country on a snowy night.
For me getting the highlander trim with a hybrid gives it the edge over Pilot because of the impressive fuel economy.
The Highlander has a nicer interior and better styling..The Pilot is quicker and handled better but the Toyota I bought looked really sharp decked in cranberry red with running boards and luggage rack.
Yes when I went to test the 2019 version the inside leather felt more high quality in highlander.
I'm debating between these two right now. I'm partial to Honda but I've owned both an Accord and a 4runner. I think they're equal in terms of reliability and I like the slightly bigger size of the Pilot but the Toyota's exterior looks better though the interior seems cheap. I don't like the touch controls on either. It's a really tough decision.
I’m in the same boat 😅
great job. I've now watched the entire video, so much detail!!! still dont know which i like better!!! you've got a new subscriber though!!
Awesome! Welcome to the Car Confections 'family'!
really appreciate the review. great job. still not sure, but this helps tremendously
Glad you found it helpful! Thanks for watching!
2:12 ... love highlander side view
I own a 2017 Honda Pilot and the transmission is terrible. If are looking to buy one please read the article from car and driver, they been having this issue with SUV since 2016. I didn’t know until I got stuck with it, and started looking up what I could do as a consumer. So far the dealer has been no help.
I hear the 9 speed tranny on the elite is not good which is why i might opt for the EXL, 6 speed tranny
What issues have you encountered? I have a 2016 elite and it’s been bulletproof so far. I get 28-33 on the highway at 70-77 with the 9 speed so I also appreciate the extra cog.
@@miked6523 Exactly what I would do, go with the 6 speed.
I went straight to the Highlander over the Pilot based on four points: much better long term quality of the Highlander, questionable Honda automatic transmission, my recent experience of a lemon Pilot, my 15 yr old super reliable Camry. Of course, better year end deal from Toyota dealer helped as well.
I have seen more Pilot than Highlander around my area. I bought the Pilot 18 month so far because the third row seat has more leg room for my boy.
Best Competitive Review. 👍Pilot is slightly Pricier than Highlander and Toyota Dealers are more flexible in making the Deals. So I give 1 more point to Toyota.
We had the 2014 Highlander Limited Platinum Edition and the car was completely totaled in a local road freak accident because the Panoramic moon roof glass was heavier and it displaced damaging both t sides of the car which has the Windshield support and also the Chassis (as told by the Insurance company). We currently own a 2018 Honda Pilot, the front windshield is huge and open gives you a better view and the 20 inch wheels does add to it. We all personally like the Honda Pilot, since it drives smooth and we feel we are inside a Premium car. Safety wise, we feel more secure in a Pilot since our whole family was inside the Highlander in that freak accident.
Some points you missed to cover, the black button on the Honda lets you lock the car with one click without the keys, which usually is inside my handbag hiding. Also you get 2 Bluetooth headphones to listen to music without using the speakers, which is a big plus. The moon roof in the front row can be opened for fresh air and the moon roof in the 2nd and 3rd row for lighting. On a hot day the highlander used to smell like plastic burning but we haven't smelt the inside the Pilot, given that we don't even have car freshener, it still smells fresh. The map is really helpful and it provides 2 different views for better accuracy. We got the Black Forest Mist, which is a dual metallic color, in bright Sunlight you can see the deep dark green and in the evening it looks like metallic black. We have had the Pilot for a month now, and we really love it as a family.
The Highlander looks more classy masculine. Love my Highlander!
What?!! 7 more mile range is worth a point?
As someone who plotted his route and gas stopping points only to find out that the town that covered the 2 exits I could have gotten off to refuel had a power outage. The car that I had got 483mi per tank. I was on mil 480 when I finally got to a gas station because I had to go an additional 18mi. So to me those 7 mile matter because I would have been walking 4mi if I was in the Highlander in that case to get gas while I would have made it with 3 mi to spare in the Pilot. Plus...7 miles will add up over the span of the year. About 118 refuels equals about 50k miles driven...thus 2 less fill ups for the Pilot. Will most people care...nope...but some will...who have been close to running out of fuel before.
Dude he gave the highlander a point because the rearview mirror was frameless we are even lol.
Buying the Highlander
what is the best for base models or second trim on these two models
i would say go with XLE AWD
Can you please do a Highlander vs Hyundai Santa Fe comparison please? Or what would be your recommendation?
Hi! We will probably compare them once the all-new Sanfa Fe comes out this summer. In the time being, the current Hyundai is a pretty old product but you could definitely get a much better deal on one vs. the Highlander is that's one of your priorities. Hope this helps!
Very well done. Great detail.
Toyota Highlander ✅
Because Toyota is better then honda in many ways style comfort and great consumers report. No question asked.
For such a thorough review why did you basically skip the third row?? I wish you at least pulled the seats back to show how limited the legroom was on both. Thanks for everything else though 😀
Thanks for the feedback! We will keep this in mind for future videos!
I just bought the Pilot over the highlander. They are both nice but a few notable things and reasons why are.. Apple Carplay, rear entertainment system and standard remote start on the Elite and one touch 3rd row. The remote start on the highlander they advised I could get but at an additional cost of almost $700
Good review thanks for the details
Stopped watching when I saw toyota doesn’t have android auto/Apple CarPlay
Rajesh Malani
Also my issue, I don’t know why Toyota is soooooooo behinds in technologies?
It is behind only on that. The rest of the tech is really good
I have a dog that sheds like the dickens. I like the highlander's hard panel seat backs. This was an AWESOME side by side thanks for all your info
Glad you liked it!
Looking at both and love both. However leaning towards Pilot only because my son is learning to be a Honda technician. Lol
I’ve owned both Honda and Toyota. Honda for some reason cannot engineer great working transmissions. Toyota makes a better more reliable product overall. If you are planning to keep your car for a long time, Toyota Highlander should be the obvious pick as it’ll have less headaches with a more reliable drivetrain and transmission.
Absolutely this. Honda somehow keep getting their trans messed up. Unknown in the Toyota world. The early 2000 Accords were notorious for trans failures. Common with most Honda's sadly.
Nice comparison Car Confections! To be honest, I think the Highlander looks a little too truck like and it doesn’t offer HID or LED headlights. I prefer the looks of the Pilot simply because it looks more like a crossover than a truck. It also offers LED headlights. But it’s my opinion.
Storage Shelf in Highlander is Extremely Useful.
Great review!
Very good reviews.
Thanks!
I gonna perfur Honda Pilot any month bro.
Honda Pilot seems nicer and will age better
In your dreams both cars are well made idiot
Another excellent review. As a Honda and Toyota fan it looks like a tossup which one to buy.
im in love with the highlander, i hate all that techy stuff the honda have. i take a simple toyota highlander easy to use. i’m just looking for a vehicle that can last me for a while. plus i can installed auto start and led for much cheaper price on base model.
You missed the opening rear window on the Highlander, very important.
We own a 2013 Pilot purchased used, my biggest complaint on the Pilot would be something that hasn't needed doing yet and was not in your glitz review, now for the substance. Replacing the belt that drives the overhead cams, at which time I understand its time to replace waterpump and thus anti-freeze. If not mistaken the Toyota uses a chain, a big plus.
Our transmission has been fine but I took it to Honda dealership, questioned them on service and found they were not going to replace the oil for the transfer case, the desk clerk said they never do unless the transmission need rebuilding.... we had him confirm this with a mechanic then bought the other fluids and went elsewhere to find the transfer case fluid that they never stocked, then had a local mechanic replace everything while watching. The transmissions are different to traditional American and Honda wants transmission oil changed every 2nd oil change as the only oil filter is internal and you are only changing about 1/2 the oil as the other 1/2 is in torque converter. They don't store a bunch of oil in a big transmission pan, the vehicle was built or at least assembled in the U.S by the way.
I probably would have purchased a Toyota because of the Cam chain vs belt issue but a used Pilot was available at a good price. We do like the 2013, and on that year the rear window can be opened separately , the button is above the licence plate and below the chrome trim that goes across under the window. I mention this as it was mentioned in comments as a plus to the Toyota, it might still be included on the Honda.
Another reason we went with the Honda over Toyota is the dealership was in town vs 200 miles away for the Toyota so we can buy parts should they ever be needed.
Will we buy another in spite that we love our 2013 current Pilot, probably not, its great on the highway but big for city parking lots. Actually looking at the Honda BR-V , though may keep both, 1 for highway and 1 for around town.
Both should have points taken off for Sun Roofs, the biggest waste in autos.
Excellent!
HIGHLANDER ✅
The highlander needs to update the headlights and add apple carplay / android auto, then it would be a more clearer winner
Totally agree with you. Highlander needs LED headlights and Apple CarPlay/Andriod Auto plus auto side folding mirror :).
Iron Shaft cbdbvbcbcopyykhhvcbcvccvncighvbjjhhhhv
Good review 👍
Thanks!
I had a Highlander and loved it. Im considering buying another one but I'm also looking at the Pilot or Nissan Armada. I have 4 boys, need 3 rows and don't want a mini van. Decisions!
Maria GoGa buy the toyota 4 runner or stay with the highlander.
The gas mileage of the Armada is HORRIBLE!!!! I bought a 2017 Highlander in May of last year, and if you're looking for a 3rd row for long drives, don't get a Highlander or a Pilot----the 3rd row is small on both. If you're looking for a large 3rd row, look into the GMC Yukon XL or Tahoe XL.
I once had a Highlander,but then the interior was sooo small that I returned it.
2019 is perfect Sized SUV. Just fits in Garage.
TOYOTA THE NAME SAYS IT ALL. KING 👑 OF MIDSIZED SUVS.
The 2018 Honda pilot elite won me over is an expressive SUV...
Honda will not warranty their own product. My seat belt cover kept popping up and their Honda regional rep denied the warranty claim. She said we must have taken the seal belt cover off and broken it. Why in the world would we take the seat belt cover off, what excuse do you guys come up with? Honda assign regional rep and their main job is to deny people warranty. Oh my steering wheel is peeling and of course they said is normal wear. Honestly a car with 30,000 miles should not peel and if it does it should be abnormal wear. My other cars has 300,000 and 180,000 miles and they are not peeling
Pilot trans is NOT a advantage. Highlander wheel s on limited are PLASTIC covers/hubcaps. The mile max is not a issue. Pilot interior looks horrible. HL stereo regardless of JBL or not is rather poor. (as you noted). 1Button is nice. Better Infotainment is also nice, also the cargo bucket you missed.Pilot more roomy space is nice also. But , just not enough to get an uglier car with 9speed. I watched a video saying 2019 HL will be back to 6spd.
Thanks. Good freaking job!!!!
$50k cars are the norm now?
I love Honda Pilot
I like the Honda Pilot overall.. But... The Toyota Highlander has a MUCH better more traditional (easier to use and read) dashboard/gauges and better more traditional shifter. The Honda Pilot's steering wheel is very nice but the dashboard is a unattractive, terrible design - and same for the terrible push button shifter on the Pilot. If only Honda would have a MUCH more traditional interior dashboard layout and a standard traditional shifter, I would take the Pilot. But between these two the way they are now, I would take the Toyota Highlander,
Agreed which is a major reason I chose the Highlander over the Pilot..
I think the Honda was better this is just my opinion. You could have gave Honda a few extra points. Like a better gas cap and more space for cups for the family. Also not sure if the Toyota had heated steering wheel. Just to mention a few.
It does
Toyota is the best, only you think than honda can win
Amazing jod you did , I thank you..
You're welcome ! Thank for watching!
I hate tie game. How am i suppose to choose which now.
Indont know but my only eye sore with the pilot is it’s tail light. Looks outdated, other than that it looks good overall.
Toyota is my favorite
Tldw; If you want performance, go with the Toyota. If you want comfort, go with the Honda.
i think honda wins by one... cuss u see them cup holders daaannnnnngggg
pilot gets its driving comfort from its name man its the pilot do not and never camper it with other cars
TOYOTA IS THE BEST HIGHLANDER
Both SUVs drives like mini Vans if that’s what you like.
Tim N does it drives like your minivan??haha
Toyota is best
thanks.
Honda Pilot much better ...
Honda Pilot exterior design is flawless, but interior is garbage, they need to step it up, the gauges especially look like a toy, come on Honda, and what's with the foot pedal parking brake, are they going back to 90's trend? Just put a simple parking brake button. And Honda, Honda, Honda, volume knob!!! This shouldn't take you 3 years to fix!!! Snap out of it Honda!!!
Honda Accord 2018
Honda Accord 2018 export was es diferente a Toyota Camry 2018
My wife went checked them both out, and bought with the Toyota platinum because of the birds eye view thing. Personally I think they’re both full of useless bullshit and just over priced minivans for people who don’t want a mini van but what do I know my daily driver switches between a 79 F350 ranger and a 81 jeep CJ scrambler depending on the weather and what I’m doing. so I’m probably not the best judge for this kind of vehicle.
pilot trans no good
You ask me which vehicle I like or ill buy ill answer with "yes the white Japanese one"
High lander much better
First view first comment
I’ve taken both for a test drive. Does anyone else hate how Toyota’s have a shitty acceleration point? It’s like either too damn weak or whips your neck too hard, there’s no in between. The Honda acceleration is pretty nice and smooth.
Seems like it’s not just the high lander but it’s most Toyota’s
test drove a highlander yesterday and thought the same thing. but driving it pretty conservatively, I didn't get the whip action, just felt weak. haven't driven a pilot yet. hmmm.....
that highlander grille is so hideous
Justin David you have shitty taste.
Spencer Thomas I probably do😂
I guess not really.
no, you have a shitty taste if you like that godforsaken grille on the Highlander
The Honda looks like a mix between and Chevy Traverse and a Mitsubishi Outlander.
Pilot won because on the highlander you can't open the back sunroof
Highlanders just last longer period.
New Hondas are garbage. Civics are having a worst recall for defective piston rings, repeated warning lights even after software update, CVT failing within 20k miles etc etc. Just stay away from new Hondas!
awesome review!
Thanks!