2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from Toyota's Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia that gave it a rugged appearance. However, the design introduced some softness with a character line swooping over the rear wheel arch, which added unnecessary visual weight and made the Highlander appear somewhat bloated. The rear echoed the trapezoidal grille, but the overall design felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors like the Kia Telluride and Jeep Grand Cherokee. Inside, the Highlander's unconventional asymmetrical dash was interrupted by a metallic styling element, creating a helpful storage tray. The infotainment touchscreen was mounted high on the dash, reducing driver distraction. The Bronze Edition featured 18-inch bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric upholstery with a triangle motif, which seemed more suited to paper towels than car interiors. The Softex synthetic leather substitute felt more like vinyl, and genuine leather was only available in higher trims. The rear seating area had more hard plastics, typical for family SUVs, but the third row was particularly uncomfortable with unyielding armrests.

The 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a complete redesign, boasting a more rugged and substantial appearance. It was larger than its predecessor, with an 8.6 cm increase in length, up to 3.8 cm in width, and 2 cm in height. These changes complemented the all-terrain-capable TrailSport model, which featured a taller ride height, unique wheels, all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates. The interior took a more conventional styling route, remaining attractive and functional. Materials quality met class expectations, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada. The Pilot emphasized function over form, offering a tidy and utilitarian aesthetic. It was tuned for comfort rather than performance, with light steering effort and a focus on family-friendly features. The TrailSport trim added off-road capabilities without sacrificing on-road composure, making it a versatile choice for families seeking adventure.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive (AWD) in Canada. Toyota estimated it could reach 100 km/h in just over eight seconds, slightly slower than gasoline-only SUVs in its class. The hybrid powertrain provided quick but tepid initial acceleration, with the gasoline engine supplying more power as needed. The CVT's lack of gear shifts resulted in an uninspired drone during heavy acceleration, particularly when climbing hills. Braking was traditional, with a soft pedal feel and seamless transition from regenerative to physical brakes. The ride quality was soft, with the suspension smoothing over road imperfections, and the cabin remained mostly free of wind and road noise.

The 2023 Honda Pilot featured an all-new 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada. Initial acceleration was quick, with a pleasant engine hum and growl. The brake pedal was soft and easy to modulate, providing smooth stops. The Pilot cornered confidently, though it didn't encourage sporty driving. Body roll was noticeable but not alarming, and the suspension was tuned for comfort. Steering was feather-light, ideal for tight spaces but somewhat vague on the highway. The TrailSport trim offered increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires, adding subtle vibration on pavement but enhancing off-road capabilities. Towing capacity reached up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs), and the Pilot maintained on-road composure and comfort despite its off-road prowess.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments for drivers of all sizes. However, the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned, leaving the elbow unsupported. Storage options were plentiful, with trays, shelves, and a large centre armrest bin. The second-row seats were spacious, accommodating six-footers with ease, and featured sliding and reclining captain's chairs. A second-row bench was available, increasing passenger capacity to eight. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for occasional use by children or smaller adults. Cargo space behind the third row was 453 litres, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded, and reaching a maximum of 2,387 litres with the second row stowed.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional, with a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level Sport trim featured a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. Primary controls were logically placed, and storage options included a large rubberized shelf, cupholders, and a wide centre console bin. The Pilot's standout feature was the stowable second-row centre seat, providing a useful pass-through for third-row passengers. The second row offered ample space for adults over six feet tall, while the third row was less inviting but suitable for average-sized adults on short trips. Cargo space behind the third row was 635 litres, expanding to 1,685 or 1,702 litres with the third row folded, and reaching a maximum of 3,219 litres behind the front seats. A power tailgate was standard, with hands-free operation on higher trims.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option available on top trims. The system was quick to respond, with logically organized menus and physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging available on Limited and Platinum trims. Navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system were also standard on these trims.

The 2023 Honda Pilot offered a larger touchscreen infotainment system on the EX-L trim and above, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and a wireless phone charger. USB ports were available in every row on the Touring trim, which also included a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was functional, with quick responses and a logical layout. Additional features included Honda's CabinTalk, navigation, Bose premium audio, and remote monitoring.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high beams. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist required some fine-tuning, with abrupt stops and resistance in the steering wheel.

The 2023 Honda Pilot earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with NHTSA ratings pending. Standard Honda Sensing safety features included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitor, adaptive cruise control, and more. Higher trims added parking sensors and surround-view cameras. The safety systems functioned smoothly, with no false alarms, and the adaptive cruise control maintained a smooth gap to the vehicle ahead.