This SUV comparison is for U.S. shoppers looking for clear facts. It compares the 2024/2025 Toyota Highlander and the 2025 Honda Pilot. Both are great for families but differ in space, power, and value.
The Pilot is bigger, affecting daily life. It’s 199.9 inches long, 78.5 inches wide, and 70.9 inches tall. It has up to 158.4 cubic feet of space for passengers. The Highlander is 194.9 inches long, 76 inches wide, and 68.1 inches tall, with about 141.8 to 144 cubic feet inside.
The Pilot’s third row has about 32.5 inches of legroom. The Highlander offers about 28 inches, which might be tight for adults on long trips.
The Honda Pilot has a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a 10-speed automatic. The Toyota Highlander has a 2.4-liter turbo four engine with 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It has a strong low-end punch.
The Pilot has more cargo space. It offers 18.6 to 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 86.5 to 113.7 cubic feet in max mode. The Highlander has 16 cubic feet behind the third row and about 84.3 cubic feet at max. The Highlander is more fuel-efficient, with an EPA estimate of 25 mpg combined in FWD. The Pilot is around 22 mpg. Both can tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped.
Features are important for families. The Pilot’s lower trims have heated front seats, a 10-way power driver seat, and a seven-speaker audio system. The Highlander’s base has non-heated fronts and a six-speaker system. Both have tri-zone climate control and 14 cup holders. Honda adds tools like a Conversation Mirror and CabinTalk for better daily use. These details highlight the Highlander vs Pilot debate for the best SUV for families.
Overview: Two Top-Rated Crossover SUVs Compete for the Best SUV for Families
When comparing Highlander vs Pilot, families look at two top crossover SUVs. They need a vehicle for school runs, car seats, and weekend trips. This overview highlights the key specs and features that families value most.
Why this midsize SUV comparison matters for U.S. shoppers
Comfort on long trips is key. The Honda Pilot has more space, with 158.4 cu ft of passenger volume. It also offers 32.5 inches of third-row legroom. The Toyota Highlander has 141.8–144 cu ft of space and about 28 inches of third-row legroom.
Both offer tri-zone climate control and 14 cup holders. They also have wireless charging and Wi‑Fi for added convenience.
Trim landscapes: Pilot Sport to Black Edition vs Highlander LE to Platinum
The Pilot comes in Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, Elite, and Black Edition. Toyota offers LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum. This variety lets buyers find the perfect match for their needs and budget.
At the dealership, the Pilot has standard heated front seats and a 10-way power driver seat. The Toyota Highlander review highlights its refined trims and tech options, appealing to many.
Gas-only focus, with notes on 3-row SUV features and everyday usability
Powertrains are a key factor. The Honda Pilot has a 3.5L V6 with 285 hp and 262 lb-ft. The Highlander has a 2.4L turbo four with 265 hp and 310 lb-ft, focusing on low-rpm torque. Both offer FWD or AWD and up to 5,000 lbs of towing.
Everyday features make these SUVs stand out. The Pilot’s Conversation Mirror and CabinTalk help parents. Both models have fold-flat seats and thoughtful storage for easy packing.
Dimensions and Space: Room for People and Gear
When comparing midsize SUVs, size matters a lot. Small differences can make a big difference in comfort. The Highlander and Pilot show this in their seating and space for long trips.
Passenger volume edge: Pilot 158.4 cu ft vs Highlander 141.8–144 cu ft
The Honda Pilot has more room for passengers, with 158.4 cubic feet. This means more space for everyone’s heads, shoulders, and hips. The Toyota Highlander has less space, making it tighter with car seats.
U.S. News & World Report praises the Pilot for its comfort. This is key when comparing the Highlander and Pilot.
Third-row comfort: Pilot about 32.5 inches legroom vs Highlander ~28 inches
The Pilot’s third row is more comfortable, with about 32.5 inches of legroom. This is great for teens and adults. The Highlander’s third row is better for kids, but less comfortable for adults.
More legroom also makes installing car seats easier. This is a big plus for families.
Exterior size: Pilot 199.9 L x 78.5 W x 70.9 H vs Highlander 194.9 L x 76 W x 68.1 H
The Pilot is longer and wider, making it more spacious inside. It has more ground clearance than the Highlander in some trims. But the Highlander is easier to park in tight spaces.
The Pilot’s wider body also means more room for seats and easier access. This is a big advantage in daily use.
Family-friendly layout: wider cabin translates to more usable seating
A wider cabin makes getting in and out of seats easier. The Pilot’s width gives more shoulder room and better access to the third row. The Highlander is also easy to navigate, but the Pilot offers more space.
This extra space is a big plus for families. It shows in any comparison of the Highlander and Pilot.
Cargo and Versatility: Daily Convenience Meets Road-Trip Readiness
Family duty often starts at the hatch. In this SUV comparison, everyday loading, folding, and cleaning matter as much as raw cubic feet. The Highlander vs Pilot debate turns practical here. It focuses on 3-row SUV features that make errands easy and weekends simple. For shoppers seeking a clear Toyota Highlander review alongside Honda’s packaging, the numbers and the little touches tell the story.
Behind 3rd row: Pilot 18.6–22.4 cu ft vs Highlander 16 cu ft
The Pilot offers 18.6–22.4 cubic feet with all seats up, depending on trim. The Highlander provides 16 cubic feet. This extra space helps fit a stroller and two carry-ons without blocking the view. It also eases grocery runs when the team is buckled in.
In a tight city lot, a lower lift-over and wider opening maximize quick loading.
Max cargo: Pilot up to 86.5–113.7 cu ft (TrailSport tops) vs Highlander ~84.3 cu ft
Fold the rows and the Pilot scales from 86.5 cubic feet to 113.7 cubic feet in TrailSport. This outpaces the Highlander’s roughly 84.3 cubic feet. Long boxes and flat-pack furniture slide in with less fuss.
The extra length helps keep bulky items level. This improves tie-down angles and rearward visibility on the move.
Smart storage: Pilot dual-level reversible cargo floor and removable 2nd-row middle seat
The Pilot’s dual-level floor adds a hidden bin when raised or maximum volume when lowered. Its reversible panel flips from carpet to an easy-clean surface for muddy boots. A removable second-row middle seat lets owners swap between eight-passenger seating and a seven-seat layout with a clear pass-through.
Both SUVs include split-folding second and third rows. But the Pilot’s flexible floor and modular seating reduce re-packing time. This practical edge supports active families comparing Highlander vs Pilot, while also informing a Toyota Highlander review focused on real-world use of 3-row SUV features.
Powertrains and Performance: V6 Muscle vs Turbo Torque
When looking at midsize SUVs, you’ll see a big difference in engines. The Highlander and Pilot both move a full-size family, but in different ways. This section combines Honda Pilot specs with Toyota Highlander insights to show how power and torque affect daily driving.
Pilot 3.5L V6: 285 hp, 262 lb-ft with a 10-speed automatic
The Honda 3.5-liter V6 engine makes 285 hp at 6,100 rpm and 262 lb-ft at 5,000 rpm. It has a 10-speed automatic, which keeps the engine in its sweet spot. This makes the Pilot feel calm and ready to go.
In real traffic, the Pilot’s shifts are short and crisp. This helps it handle steady climbs, passing, and long highway drives well.
Highlander 2.4L turbo: 265 hp, 310 lb-ft with lower-RPM torque
The Toyota Highlander has a 2.4-liter turbo four engine. It makes 265 hp at 6,000 rpm and 310 lb-ft at 1,700 rpm. This gives the Highlander a strong start and quick acceleration from low speeds.
A balanced review notes the Highlander’s quick response in the city and relaxed driving. It’s great for those who like to use the light throttle.
Real-world feel: Pilot’s higher horsepower and smoother highway acceleration
On-ramps and two-lane passes show the V6’s smooth power. Dealership drives and U.S. News summaries often praise the Pilot’s composure at speed. The Highlander’s steering feels lighter, which some prefer.
In discussions between Highlander and Pilot fans, the Pilot’s highway poise is often the key factor.
Drive modes and capability: Pilot TrailSport off-pavement confidence
The Pilot TrailSport has Normal, ECON, Snow, Tow, Sport, Trail, and Sand modes. It also has 8.3 inches of ground clearance and an integrated Class III hitch. These features make it confident on gravel, ruts, and in winter slush.
Both SUVs offer FWD or AWD, but the TrailSport’s tuning is great for off-road adventures.
Keyword takeaways woven for clarity: Highlander vs Pilot power delivery, Honda Pilot specs for gearing and torque management, Toyota Highlander review on low-end thrust, and how these midsize SUV options fit daily routes and weekend escapes.
Fuel Efficiency Comparison: MPG You Can Live With
When comparing Highlander vs Pilot, a small but important difference at the pump is noticed. Toyota’s Highlander edges out Honda’s Pilot in front-wheel-drive fuel efficiency. Yet, for families, the right choice depends on more than just mpg.
EPA-estimated combined: Pilot around 22 MPG vs Highlander around 25 MPG
The Toyota Highlander is estimated to get about 25 mpg combined, according to recent data. The Honda Pilot is estimated to get about 22 mpg combined. This difference is due to the Pilot’s larger size and power, a common trade-off.
City/highway snapshots: Pilot ~19/27 vs Highlander ~22/29 (FWD)
The Highlander’s front-wheel-drive estimates are 22/29 mpg for city and highway driving. The Pilot’s estimates are 19/27 mpg. Real-world results can vary based on several factors, including load, terrain, and driving style.
Balancing efficiency with size, power, and cargo priorities
Families often consider mileage, space, and power when choosing an SUV. The Pilot offers more room and capability, but at the cost of lower mpg. The Highlander’s better fuel efficiency can save on fuel costs for long commutes. The choice between Highlander and Pilot depends on whether the extra fuel savings is worth the trade-off in space and power.
| Metric | Toyota Highlander (FWD) | Honda Pilot (FWD) | Takeaway for Families |
|---|---|---|---|
| EPA City MPG | ~22 | ~19 | Highlander saves fuel in stop-and-go driving |
| EPA Highway MPG | ~29 | ~27 | Both cruise efficiently; Toyota holds a slim edge |
| EPA Combined MPG | ~25 | ~22 | Expect about a 2–3 mpg difference overall |
| Vehicle Size Context | More compact exterior | Larger body, more interior room | Extra space can justify lower mpg for some buyers |
| Powertrain Character | 2.4L turbo prioritized efficiency | 3.5L V6 emphasizes smooth power | Choose based on daily mix of efficiency and performance |
Highlander vs Pilot
This SUV comparison focuses on what matters most to families. The Honda Pilot has more interior space, with 158.4 cubic feet compared to the Highlander’s 141.8–144 cubic feet. The Pilot also offers more legroom in the third row, at about 32.5 inches, while the Highlander has roughly 28 inches. Cargo space behind the third row is 18.6–22.4 cubic feet in the Pilot, and 16 cubic feet in the Highlander.
The Toyota Highlander review highlights its powerful 2.4-liter turbo engine. It has 310 lb-ft of torque at 1,700 rpm, making it great for city driving and merging. The Highlander also gets better gas mileage, with an EPA estimate of about 25 mpg combined. The Honda Pilot gets around 22 mpg combined in similar trims.
When it comes to features, the Honda Pilot specs include heated front seats and a 10-way power driver seat on lower trims. It also comes with a seven-speaker setup. The Pilot’s Conversation Mirror and CabinTalk features make family life easier. The Toyota Highlander offers a lighter steering feel and a quiet ride, which many drivers prefer.
Safety is a key area where both SUVs excel. The Pilot has earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, while the Highlander has the Top Safety Pick rating. Honda is known for its easy-to-use LATCH system. Both offer front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and can tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped.
Reviews from major outlets praise the Pilot’s smooth power and confident passing. The Toyota Highlander is known for its quiet ride and efficient cruising. When choosing between the Highlander and Pilot, consider these features to see which SUV best fits your family’s needs.
Quick take: Look at interior space, third-row space, cargo, fuel economy, and standard features to make your choice. Then, test drive both to see which one fits your daily routine better.
| Category | Honda Pilot specs | Toyota Highlander review | Key takeaway in this SUV comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Volume | 158.4 cu ft | 141.8–144 cu ft | Pilot offers more cabin space for families and gear |
| 3rd-Row Legroom | ~32.5 in | ~28 in | Pilot provides easier adult fit in row three |
| Cargo Behind Row 3 | 18.6–22.4 cu ft | 16 cu ft | More usable room for strollers and bags in Pilot |
| Max Cargo Capacity | Up to 86.5–113.7 cu ft | ~84.3 cu ft | Pilot scales better for bulk hauls |
| Torque & Delivery | V6 smoothness, strong highway pull | 2.4L turbo, 310 lb-ft at 1,700 rpm | Highlander excels at low‑rpm response |
| EPA Combined MPG | ~22 mpg | ~25 mpg | Highlander returns better efficiency |
| Standard Features (Lower Trims) | Heated fronts, 10‑way power driver, 7 speakers, Conversation Mirror, CabinTalk | Lighter steering feel, quiet ride focus | Pilot leans toward richer base content |
| Safety Recognition | IIHS Top Safety Pick+ | IIHS Top Safety Pick | Strong ratings for both, with Pilot at the top tier |
| Towing & Drivetrain | Up to 5,000 lbs; FWD/AWD | Up to 5,000 lbs; FWD/AWD | Parity for trailering and traction options |
Interior Comfort and Technology: Family-Centric Features You’ll Use Daily
When comparing Highlander vs Pilot, it’s all about daily ease. We look at features that make school runs and weekend drives easier. We mix hands-on experiences with precise specs and a clear review.
Standard comforts lean towards the Pilot at the base level. It has heated front seats, a 10-way power driver seat, and a four-way power front passenger seat. The Highlander starts with fewer features, missing heated fronts on lower trims. These differences are clear on daily commutes and long trips.
In-cabin parenting aids favor Honda. The Conversation Mirror lets drivers see the second and third rows. CabinTalk acts like a built-in PA, muting audio and projecting the driver’s voice to the rear. This is useful for quick check-ins during long drives.
Audio and connectivity show clear differences. The Pilot starts with seven speakers and offers a 12-speaker upgrade. The Highlander has a six-speaker base with up to 11 speakers available. Both offer Wi‑Fi hotspot capability and wireless charging on higher trims, plus leather, ventilated fronts, heated second-row seats, and a power moonroof. The Highlander has a larger available Head-Up Display, while the Pilot has stronger premium speakers.
Climate control and cup holders are similar. Both offer tri-zone climate control for balanced temperatures in all three rows. They both have 14 cup holders, useful for water bottles, coffee, and kids’ drinks across every seat. These shared features provide practical comfort every day.
| Feature | Honda Pilot | Toyota Highlander | Real-World Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front-seat comfort | Heated fronts standard; 10-way power driver; 4-way power passenger | Heated fronts not standard on base; manual passenger on lower trims | Pilot feels more premium at lower price points |
| Parenting aids | Conversation Mirror; CabinTalk in-vehicle PA | No direct PA equivalent | Clear communication to rear rows favors Pilot |
| Audio systems | 7 speakers base; up to 12 speakers | 6 speakers base; up to 11 speakers | Pilot offers higher speaker ceiling |
| Connectivity | Wi‑Fi hotspot and wireless charging available | Wi‑Fi hotspot and wireless charging available | Parity on core tech across trims |
| Driver info tech | Strong audio upgrade; competitive displays | Larger available Head-Up Display | Highlander projects more data to windshield |
| Cabin convenience | Tri-zone climate; 14 cup holders | Tri-zone climate; 14 cup holders | Road-trip friendly in both models |
In comparing Highlander vs Pilot, the details are key. Looking at features, a practical review, and verified specs helps families choose. They focus on comfort, communication, and tech for daily use.
Safety, Driver Assistance, and Ratings: Peace of Mind for the Long Haul
When comparing Highlander vs Pilot, safety scores and driver assistance features are key. Both are among the best SUVs for families. They offer great help in traffic, at night, and during school runs.
IIHS Recognition
The Honda Pilot is a Top Safety Pick+, while the Toyota Highlander is a Top Safety Pick. This is important for parents looking at 3-row SUVs.
Assistive Tech Highlights
Honda Sensing includes Road Departure Mitigation and a special rear camera. Toyota Safety Sense has lane centering and adaptive cruise. But, the Pilot has a unique multi-view rear camera.
Both offer traffic-sign aids, forward-collision alerts, and automatic emergency braking. These features are essential for families.
LATCH Usability and Cabin Quiet
The Pilot is better for installing child seats, thanks to LATCH accessibility. It also has Active Noise Cancellation and acoustic-laminate glass. The Highlander has noise-reducing glass on some trims.
These features help reduce driver fatigue. They make both SUVs great for school days and long drives.
Towing, Trims, and Ownership: Matching the SUV to Your Lifestyle
When comparing Highlander vs Pilot, you’ll see both are well-engineered. They offer great utility without sacrificing comfort. This section combines a Toyota Highlander review with Honda Pilot specs to match features with your daily needs.
Towing parity: Up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped
Both SUVs can tow up to 5,000 lbs when set up right. Owners need to check tongue weight and trailer brakes before towing. It’s also important to use a Class III receiver and distribute weight correctly.
The Pilot has a Tow drive mode and clear displays for towing. The Highlander’s turbo torque helps with low-speed starts, making it easier to use ramps. Hitching correctly and checking tire pressure are key for confident towing.
Trim spread: Pilot (Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, Elite, Black Edition) vs Highlander (LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, Platinum)
The Honda Pilot has various trims, from the Sport to the tech-rich Elite and style-focused Black Edition. The TrailSport adds off-road features and a Class III hitch. It also has 8.3-inch ground clearance.
The Toyota Highlander has trims from LE to Platinum, with XSE being sportier. Toyota keeps things simple with safety and infotainment features. This makes it easy to find the right SUV without overbuying.
Use cases: commuter comfort, adventure readiness, and family travel
The Highlander is great for commuting, thanks to its efficiency. The Pilot is praised for its highway comfort and ride quality. Families might prefer the Pilot’s space and features like Conversation Mirror and CabinTalk.
For adventure, the Pilot TrailSport is ready with Trail and Sand modes. The Highlander is good for light trails and weekend trips. Think about your needs, terrain, and how often you’ll use the SUV when deciding.
| Category | Honda Pilot | Toyota Highlander | Ownership Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Towing (properly equipped) | 5,000 lbs; Tow mode; Class III availability | 5,000 lbs; strong turbo torque assists launch | Follow SAE J2807, verify tongue weight, use trailer brakes |
| Key Trims | Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, Elite, Black Edition | LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, Platinum | Trim strategy defines tech, comfort, and capability mix |
| Adventure Focus | TrailSport: TrailWatch, off‑pavement tuning, 8.3 in clearance | XSE: sport styling; balanced chassis for light trails | Select tires and recovery points for terrain; pack tools |
| Family Tech | Conversation Mirror, CabinTalk, roomy third row | Strong infotainment, efficient packaging | Test third-row access with child seats installed |
| Daily Driving Emphasis | Stable highway manners; praised ride quality | Efficiency-focused, smooth urban manners | Balance mpg needs with cargo and passenger volume |
| Decision Lens | Honda Pilot specs favor space and towing support | Toyota Highlander review favors efficiency and value | Use-case fit is key among midsize SUV options |
Conclusion
In the Highlander vs Pilot debate, what matters most is what you value most. Toyota’s 2.4L turbo engine gives strong low-rpm torque. This makes it a great choice for families who want to save on gas and have a smaller footprint.
Honda, on the other hand, offers a roomier cabin and a more comfy third row. It also has better cargo space. Plus, its 3.5L V6 engine and 10-speed automatic make long trips smooth.
Both SUVs can tow up to 5,000 pounds when ready. They also come with strong safety features. The Pilot recently got a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, while the Highlander is a Top Safety Pick.
The Pilot has features like heated front seats and useful storage for families. These make it a great choice for growing families.
If you need lots of space and comfort for long trips, the Pilot is the better choice. But if you prioritize fuel economy and easy driving, the Highlander is a good option. This comparison shows two excellent SUVs for different family needs.
So, pick the Pilot for lots of room and smooth highway driving. Or choose the Highlander for better fuel efficiency and strong torque. The Highlander vs Pilot debate is really about finding the best fit for your family’s lifestyle.
FAQ
Which is bigger inside for families, the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander?
The Honda Pilot is bigger inside. It has 158.4 cu ft of passenger volume. This is more than the Toyota Highlander’s 141.8–144 cu ft. The Pilot’s extra space is great for school runs and road trips.
How do third-row seats compare: Highlander vs Pilot?
The Pilot’s third row is roomier, with about 32.5 inches of legroom. The Highlander has roughly 28 inches, better for kids on long drives. For adults, the Pilot is better.
What are the main powertrain differences between the Pilot and Highlander?
The Pilot has a 3.5L V6 engine (285 hp, 262 lb-ft) with a 10-speed automatic. The Highlander uses a 2.4L turbo four (265 hp, 310 lb-ft). The V6 is smoother at highway speeds, while the turbo four is punchier in the city.
Which SUV is more fuel efficient in real-world driving?
The Toyota Highlander is more fuel efficient. It gets about 22/29 mpg city/highway (25 combined). The Honda Pilot gets roughly 19/27 mpg (22 combined). Expect a 2–3 mpg combined difference.
How does cargo capacity stack up behind the third row?
The Pilot has more cargo space behind the third row. It offers 18.6–22.4 cu ft, while the Highlander has 16 cu ft. This extra space is great for families.
What are maximum cargo numbers for each?
The Pilot can carry up to 86.5 cu ft with seats folded. The TrailSport model can carry up to 113.7 cu ft. The Highlander can carry up to 84.3 cu ft. The Pilot also has a dual-level cargo floor and a removable second-row middle seat.
Which trims are available for both SUVs?
Honda Pilot trims include Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, Elite, and Black Edition. Toyota Highlander trims are LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum. Each offers different features and prices.
Are heated seats standard, and which model includes more family features?
Heated front seats and a 10-way power driver seat are standard on lower Pilot trims. Highlander trims often lack heated fronts at the base level. The Pilot also has a Conversation Mirror and CabinTalk intercom for better communication.
How do the Highlander vs Pilot compare on safety ratings?
The Honda Pilot is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, while the Toyota Highlander is a Top Safety Pick. Both have strong driver-assistance suites. The Pilot is praised for easier child-seat installation.
What driver-assistance features stand out?
The Pilot has Road Departure Mitigation and a multi-view rear camera. The Highlander also has a wide range of assists. Both offer adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping, and automatic emergency braking.
Can both the Pilot and Highlander tow a family camper or small boat?
Yes. Both can tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped. Make sure to have the right hitch, wiring, and cooling for safe towing.
Which drives better on the highway: V6 Pilot or turbo Highlander?
The Pilot’s V6 and 10-speed automatic are smoother on the highway. The Highlander’s turbo four is better for city driving and passing.
Do both offer AWD and off-pavement capability?
Yes. Both offer FWD or AWD. The Pilot TrailSport adds off-pavement features like Trail & Sand drive modes and an integrated Class III hitch.
Which is the best SUV for families prioritizing third-row comfort?
The Honda Pilot is best for third-row comfort. It has more legroom and easier access, making it great for carpool duty and long trips.
What about cabin convenience: climate control and cup holders?
Both SUVs have tri-zone automatic climate control and 14 cup holders. The Pilot is wider, making it more comfortable for three across in the second row. The Highlander is better for smaller passengers in tight spaces.
How do audio and connectivity options compare?
Pilot trims have 7 to 12 speakers; Highlander offers 6 to 11. Both can add Wi‑Fi hotspot capability, wireless smartphone charging, and larger touchscreens as you move up trims.
Are there differences in exterior dimensions that affect parking?
Yes. The Pilot is larger, measuring 199.9 x 78.5 x 70.9 inches. The Highlander is smaller, making it easier to park in tight spaces.
Which offers better value at lower trims?
The Pilot has more standard comforts at lower trims. It includes heated front seats, a 10-way power driver seat, and a seven-speaker audio system. The Highlander has better fuel economy and strong turbo torque.
Is the Highlander vs Pilot fuel efficiency comparison the same with AWD?
AWD lowers fuel economy slightly for both. The Highlander generally has a small mpg lead over the Pilot, but exact figures vary by trim.
If I need maximum cargo flexibility, which should I choose?
Choose the Honda Pilot for maximum cargo flexibility. It has larger max cargo numbers, a removable second-row middle seat, and a dual-level reversible cargo floor.