2021 Honda Pilot vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Honda Pilot aimed to balance styling with reliability, safety, comfort, and performance. Despite efforts to enhance its rugged appearance with a 2019 refresh and a 2020 Black Edition, the exterior design remained polarizing. The Pilot was available in five trims in Canada, all featuring standard all-wheel drive. The Black Edition, fully loaded with exclusive black leather upholstery and red accents, offered a premium feel, though its black mats were a challenge for pet owners. The interior, with quality materials and a minivan-like front seat design, did not favour the Pilot's overall appeal.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid presented a bold design with a blunt nose and floating roof effect, which initially appeared distinctive but could become familiar over time. The Highlander Hybrid was available in four trims, with the Platinum trim offering a range of premium features. The interior featured a two-tone design with leather upholstery, though the dashboard's asymmetrical element and glossy detailing could cause reflections. The Highlander Hybrid's design was a mix of bold and functional, with some elements requiring acclimation.

The 2021 Honda Pilot was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, providing a smooth and refined driving experience. Its nine-speed automatic transmission and torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system contributed to its athletic handling. Fuel efficiency was reasonable, with an average of 10.9 L/100 km during testing. The Pilot's suspension offered a comfortable ride, and its steering and brakes were responsive, though the brakes could heat up with prolonged use. Off-road capabilities were limited by its ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivered 243 horsepower and was rated at 6.7 L/100 km in combined driving. While more fuel-efficient than its predecessor, the Highlander Hybrid's performance was less engaging. The E-CVT transmission and electric motors provided adequate power, but the engine sounded strained during acceleration. The steering was lifeless, and the ride could be unsettled on uneven roads. However, the Highlander Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for those prioritizing economy over driving excitement.

The 2021 Honda Pilot offered ample space for families, with seating for up to eight people. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with power adjustments for the driver. Second-row captain's chairs were available, providing comfort and flexibility. The third-row seat was less comfortable for adults, but storage was abundant throughout the cabin. Cargo space was generous, with up to 3,092 litres available with seats folded.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum provided roomy accommodations for the driver and front passenger, though the second-row bench seat felt narrow for three adults. The third-row seat was uncomfortable and lacked support, making it unsuitable for long journeys. Storage was adequate but not as generous as previous models, and the cargo space measured up to 2,387 litres. The Highlander Hybrid's interior was functional but had some design limitations.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered additional features like wireless phone charging and a premium audio system. The system was adequate but lacked some modern conveniences, and voice recognition required specific prompts. The Touring trim added a rear-seat entertainment system and Cabin Talk feature for easier communication with rear passengers.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen display on the Platinum trim, offering a premium audio system and navigation. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large controls and shortcut buttons. The JBL sound system provided powerful audio, though sound quality varied. Toyota's Driver Easy Speak technology and a video rearview mirror enhanced convenience, while the driver information display offered detailed data.

The 2021 Honda Pilot included Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, as standard. It featured adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Pilot received favourable crash-test ratings, with a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and "good" ratings from IIHS, except for an "acceptable" score for front passenger small overlap frontal-impact protection.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, and lane departure with steering assist. New features for 2021 included intersection support and emergency steering assistance. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, though it earned four-star ratings for frontal-impact crash tests.