When it comes to mid-size SUVs, two popular models often come to mind: the Toyota Highlander and the Honda Pilot. Both vehicles have their strengths and weaknesses, but one key aspect to consider is their size. In this article, we’ll delve into the dimensions of both the Highlander and Pilot to help you determine which one is bigger and whether that matters for your needs.
Exterior Dimensions: A Side-by-Side Comparison
To start, let’s take a look at the exterior dimensions of both vehicles. Here’s a side-by-side comparison:
| Vehicle | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander | 194.9 inches | 76 inches | 66 inches | 110.9 inches |
| Honda Pilot | 194.5 inches | 78.6 inches | 69.8 inches | 111 inches |
As you can see, the Highlander and Pilot are very close in terms of length, with the Highlander being only 0.4 inches longer. However, the Pilot is slightly wider and taller than the Highlander. The wheelbase of both vehicles is also nearly identical, with the Pilot’s being 0.1 inches longer.
Interior Space: Where the Highlander and Pilot Differ
While the exterior dimensions of both vehicles are similar, the interior space is where they differ. Here’s a breakdown of the passenger and cargo space in both vehicles:
Passenger Space
The Highlander and Pilot both offer seating for up to eight passengers, depending on the configuration. However, the Highlander offers slightly more passenger space, particularly in the third row. Here’s a comparison of the passenger space in both vehicles:
| Vehicle | Front Headroom | Front Legroom | Second-Row Headroom | Second-Row Legroom | Third-Row Headroom | Third-Row Legroom |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander | 40.9 inches | 44.2 inches | 40.9 inches | 38.4 inches | 36.1 inches | 27.7 inches |
| Honda Pilot | 40.1 inches | 42.9 inches | 40.9 inches | 38.4 inches | 38.3 inches | 31.9 inches |
As you can see, the Highlander offers slightly more headroom and legroom in the front and second rows. However, the Pilot offers more headroom in the third row.
Cargo Space
When it comes to cargo space, the Pilot offers slightly more room behind the third row. Here’s a comparison of the cargo space in both vehicles:
| Vehicle | Cargo Space Behind Third Row | Cargo Space Behind Second Row | Maximum Cargo Space |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander | 13.8 cubic feet | 40.6 cubic feet | 73.3 cubic feet |
| Honda Pilot | 16.5 cubic feet | 46.8 cubic feet | 83.9 cubic feet |
As you can see, the Pilot offers more cargo space behind the third row and second row. It also offers more maximum cargo space.
Ground Clearance and Approach/Departure Angles
Another important aspect to consider is the ground clearance and approach/departure angles of both vehicles. Here’s a comparison:
| Vehicle | Ground Clearance | Approach Angle | Departure Angle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander | 8 inches | 18 degrees | 22 degrees |
| Honda Pilot | 7.3 inches | 19.7 degrees | 20.8 degrees |
As you can see, the Highlander offers slightly more ground clearance than the Pilot. However, the Pilot offers a slightly better approach angle.
Towing Capacity
If you plan on towing a trailer or boat, you’ll want to consider the towing capacity of both vehicles. Here’s a comparison:
| Vehicle | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander | up to 5,000 pounds |
| Honda Pilot | up to 5,000 pounds |
As you can see, both vehicles offer the same towing capacity.
Conclusion
So, which is bigger: the Highlander or Pilot? The answer depends on how you define “bigger.” If you’re looking at exterior dimensions, the Highlander is slightly longer, while the Pilot is slightly wider and taller. However, if you’re looking at interior space, the Highlander offers slightly more passenger space, while the Pilot offers more cargo space.
Ultimately, the choice between the Highlander and Pilot will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize passenger space, the Highlander may be the better choice. However, if you prioritize cargo space, the Pilot may be the better choice.
It’s also worth noting that both vehicles offer a range of trim levels and options, so be sure to research and compare the different models to find the one that best fits your needs and budget.
In conclusion, while both the Highlander and Pilot are mid-size SUVs, they offer different strengths and weaknesses when it comes to size. By considering the exterior and interior dimensions, as well as the towing capacity and ground clearance, you can make an informed decision about which vehicle is right for you.
What are the exterior dimensions of the Toyota Highlander?
The exterior dimensions of the Toyota Highlander vary depending on the trim level and configuration. The overall length of the Highlander ranges from 194.9 to 197.4 inches, while the width ranges from 76 to 76.4 inches. The height of the Highlander ranges from 66 to 68.1 inches, and the wheelbase ranges from 110.9 to 114.2 inches.
In comparison to its competitors, the Highlander has a slightly longer length and wheelbase, but a similar width and height. This provides the Highlander with a more spacious interior and a smoother ride, making it a great option for families and road trips.
What are the interior dimensions of the Honda Pilot?
The interior dimensions of the Honda Pilot provide ample space for passengers and cargo. The Pilot offers a passenger volume of up to 152.9 cubic feet, with 40.9 inches of headroom, 62.9 inches of shoulder room, and 42.9 inches of legroom in the front seats. The second-row seats offer 40.9 inches of headroom, 62 inches of shoulder room, and 38.4 inches of legroom.
In terms of cargo space, the Pilot offers up to 16.5 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the third-row seats, 46.8 cubic feet behind the second-row seats, and 83.9 cubic feet with both rows folded. This makes the Pilot an excellent choice for families who need to transport multiple passengers and cargo.
How do the dimensions of the Highlander and Pilot compare?
The dimensions of the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot are similar, but there are some key differences. The Highlander is slightly longer and wider than the Pilot, but the Pilot has a slightly taller height. The Highlander also has a longer wheelbase than the Pilot, which provides a smoother ride and more stable handling.
In terms of interior space, the Highlander and Pilot offer similar passenger volumes, but the Highlander has slightly more cargo space behind the third-row seats. However, the Pilot has more cargo space behind the second-row seats, making it a better option for families who need to transport multiple passengers and cargo.
Do the dimensions of the Highlander and Pilot affect their performance?
The dimensions of the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot can affect their performance in certain ways. The Highlander’s longer length and wheelbase provide a smoother ride and more stable handling, making it a great option for road trips. However, the Pilot’s slightly taller height can make it more susceptible to wind noise and reduced fuel efficiency at high speeds.
In terms of towing capacity, the Highlander has a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, while the Pilot has a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds as well. However, the Highlander’s more powerful engine options provide more towing power and capability.
How do the dimensions of the Highlander and Pilot impact their fuel efficiency?
The dimensions of the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot can impact their fuel efficiency in certain ways. The Highlander’s longer length and wheelbase can make it more aerodynamic, which can improve fuel efficiency at high speeds. However, the Pilot’s slightly taller height can make it more susceptible to wind noise and reduced fuel efficiency at high speeds.
In terms of actual fuel efficiency, the Highlander has an estimated EPA rating of up to 24 mpg combined, while the Pilot has an estimated EPA rating of up to 22 mpg combined. However, actual fuel efficiency can vary depending on a variety of factors, including driving habits and road conditions.
Are the dimensions of the Highlander and Pilot suitable for off-road driving?
The dimensions of the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot can make them suitable for light off-road driving, but they are not designed for serious off-roading. The Highlander’s ground clearance ranges from 8 to 8.1 inches, while the Pilot’s ground clearance ranges from 7.3 to 7.5 inches. This provides enough clearance for light off-road driving, but not enough for serious rock crawling or mud bogging.
In terms of approach and departure angles, the Highlander has an approach angle of up to 18 degrees and a departure angle of up to 23 degrees, while the Pilot has an approach angle of up to 19.7 degrees and a departure angle of up to 20.8 degrees. This provides enough clearance for light off-road driving, but not enough for serious off-roading.
Do the dimensions of the Highlander and Pilot affect their parking and maneuverability?
The dimensions of the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot can affect their parking and maneuverability in certain ways. The Highlander’s longer length and wheelbase can make it more difficult to park in tight spaces, but its more advanced parking features can make it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
In terms of actual maneuverability, the Highlander has a turning radius of up to 37.4 feet, while the Pilot has a turning radius of up to 39.4 feet. This makes the Highlander slightly more maneuverable in tight spaces, but the Pilot’s more advanced parking features can make it easier to park in tight spaces.