The short answer
For long-term value, the Toyota Highlander wins: it is more reliable (4.0 vs 3.5 RepairPal), cheaper to repair (~$489 vs ~$542 a year), and holds its value better (it loses 41.8% over five years versus 48.3% for the Pilot). The Honda Pilot answers back with a roomier cabin and a more powerful standard V6.
Is the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot more reliable?
The Highlander is the stronger reliability bet. RepairPal rates it 4.0 out of 5 — 7th among 26 midsize SUVs — versus 3.5 for the Pilot, which ranks 13th. Toyota also placed 3rd overall to Honda's 4th in Consumer Reports' 2025 brand reliability rankings. Both can clear 200,000 miles with care.
Neither is a risky choice; this is a margin between two dependable SUVs. The Highlander's edge reflects Toyota's longer track record, especially with its hybrid drivetrain, which carries the brand's strongest durability reputation. See our guide to the most reliable car brands and how to read a vehicle history report when shopping used. Ratings are from RepairPal.
Which is cheaper to own, the Highlander or the Pilot?
The Highlander is cheaper to own over time. Its average annual repair cost is about $489 versus $542 for the Pilot, and it depreciates more slowly — losing 41.8% of value across five years versus 48.3% for the Pilot. That resale gap of roughly 6.5 percentage points is worth around $2,600 on a $40,000 SUV.
| Measure | Toyota Highlander | Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| RepairPal reliability | 4.0 / 5 (7th of 26) | 3.5 / 5 (13th of 26) |
| Avg. annual repair cost | ~$489 | ~$542 |
| 5-year depreciation | ~41.8% | ~48.3% |
| Powertrain | 4-cyl turbo or hybrid | V6 |
| Hybrid option | Yes | No |
| Long-term mileage | 200,000+ | 200,000+ |
Depreciation and ownership figures from iSeeCars and RepairPal; exact numbers vary by trim and model year.
Which has better fuel economy, the Highlander or the Pilot?
The Highlander wins on fuel economy, largely because it offers a hybrid the Pilot does not. The Highlander Hybrid returns around 35 mpg combined, while the V6-only Pilot lands closer to 22 mpg combined. Even the gas Highlander's turbo four typically beats the Pilot's V6, though the V6 delivers stronger towing and acceleration.
Which has more room, the Highlander or the Pilot?
The Honda Pilot is the roomier SUV. It offers more third-row legroom and more maximum cargo space behind the first row than the Highlander, whose third row is best suited to children or short trips. Families who regularly carry seven or eight passengers will find the Pilot's cabin noticeably more accommodating.
- Pilot: larger, more usable third row and more cargo volume.
- Highlander: comfortable for five, tighter third row, more efficient.
- Both seat up to eight with the bench seat configuration.
Should you buy the Highlander or the Pilot?
Buy the Highlander for the best reliability, lowest repair cost, strongest resale, and a hybrid option that lifts fuel economy to about 35 mpg. Buy the Pilot if interior space is your priority — it offers a roomier third row, more cargo room, and a stronger standard V6 for towing and passing.
- Pick the Highlander if: you want top reliability, resale, and efficiency for the long haul.
- Pick the Pilot if: you want maximum third-row space, cargo room, and V6 power.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Highlander or the Pilot?
The Highlander. RepairPal rates it 4.0 out of 5 (7th of 26 midsize SUVs) versus 3.5 for the Pilot (13th), and Toyota ranked 3rd overall to Honda's 4th in Consumer Reports' 2025 brand reliability. Both can exceed 200,000 miles with maintenance.
Does the Toyota Highlander hold its value better than the Honda Pilot?
Yes. The Highlander loses about 41.8% of its value over five years versus 48.3% for the Pilot, so it retains roughly 6.5 percentage points more. On a $40,000 SUV that gap is worth around $2,600 at resale, favoring the Highlander.
Which has lower maintenance costs, the Highlander or Pilot?
The Highlander. Its average annual repair cost is about $489 versus $542 for the Pilot, roughly $53 a year cheaper according to RepairPal. Both are mainstream SUVs with widely available parts, so neither is expensive to service relative to luxury rivals.
Is the Highlander Hybrid worth the extra cost over the gas model?
For high-mileage drivers, usually yes. The Highlander Hybrid returns around 35 mpg combined versus the gas model's mid-20s, and Toyota's hybrid system has a strong durability record. The fuel savings repay the modest price premium fastest for those driving well above average miles.
Sources
CarsLens is editorial guidance, not individualized advice. This comparison draws on RepairPal, iSeeCars, and EPA fuel-economy estimates.