Honda Pilot vs Toyota Highlander: Best Used SUV?
You need three rows, room for the soccer gear, and something that won't nickel-and-dime you at the mechanic. If that sounds familiar, you've probably already landed on two finalists: the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander. Both are excellent used buys — but they're not the same car, and the right pick depends on what matters most to your family.
The Basics: What You're Getting with Each
The Honda Pilot is a family-focused three-row SUV that prioritizes interior space. The fourth-generation Pilot (2016–2022) runs a smooth 3.5L V6 paired with a 9-speed automatic, seating up to eight passengers in a cabin that genuinely feels roomy even in the third row. If you're looking at 2023 or newer, Honda switched to a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder for base trims and a 3.5L V6 for upper trims. The Pilot's wheelbase is long by class standards, which pays dividends in legroom and cargo space behind the third row.
The Toyota Highlander is built on Toyota's reputation for near-bulletproof reliability. The fourth-generation Highlander (2020–present) offers a more refined, car-like driving feel compared to the boxy 2014–2019 model. The big draw for LA buyers is the Highlander Hybrid, which returns around 36 mpg combined — a meaningful advantage when you're grinding through the 405 five days a week. The standard V6 Highlander is no slouch either, with polished handling and a quieter cabin than many rivals.
Reliability & Long-Term Ownership Costs
Both vehicles rank well for reliability, but the Highlander holds a slight long-term edge. Toyota's legendary powertrain durability means a well-maintained Highlander can push 200,000+ miles without major drama. J.D. Power consistently rates the Highlander above average for initial quality and dependability. The Pilot is no slouch — Honda's V6 engines are known for longevity — but some fourth-generation Pilots (2016–2018) had reported issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission, so it's worth checking service records carefully for those years. According to Edmunds, the Highlander also holds its value better over time, which matters if you plan to sell or trade in a few years down the road.
Interior Space, Features & Family Practicality
This is where the Pilot pulls ahead. The Honda Pilot's third row is one of the most livable in the segment — adults can actually sit back there without feeling punished. Cargo space behind the third row is around 16.5 cubic feet, edging out the Highlander's 16.0 cu ft. The Pilot also has a wider cabin overall, making it feel less cramped on road trips with a full load of kids, bags, and snacks. The Highlander's interior — particularly the 2020+ refresh — looks and feels more upscale, borrowing some premium DNA from the Lexus RX. But Toyota achieved this partly by tightening up the third row, and taller passengers will definitely notice.
What You'll Pay on the Used Market in 2026
In the current market — where used car prices have climbed roughly $1,300 since the start of 2026 — both vehicles command solid prices, but the Pilot consistently comes in a bit cheaper than a comparably-equipped Highlander. A clean 2020–2022 Highlander with moderate miles typically lists in the $32,000–$40,000 range, while a similar-year Pilot can be found from $28,000–$36,000. That gap is real money. The Highlander Hybrid models from 2020–2022 can sometimes be found under $38,000 and will pay you back in fuel savings over time — particularly valuable for high-mileage LA commuters. Always run a vehicle history check via CARFAX before committing to any used SUV, regardless of how clean it looks on the lot.
If you're shopping purely on value-per-dollar-spent, the Pilot wins. If you prioritize fuel economy, resale value, or a more refined driving experience, the Highlander — especially the Hybrid — is worth the premium.
Which One Is Right for You?
Buy the Honda Pilot if you need maximum space for passengers and cargo, you have a larger family, or you're on a tighter budget but refuse to sacrifice practicality. Aim for a 2019 or newer model to sidestep most of the early 9-speed transmission concerns, and look for an EX-L or Touring trim for the best combination of features and value.
Buy the Toyota Highlander if you want the safest long-term bet, you're interested in the Hybrid for LA's relentless stop-and-go, or you care about strong resale value when it's time to move on. The 2020+ generation is a meaningful step up from the previous body style — try to land in that model year range if your budget allows.
Ready to Find Your Next Car?
Whether you're leaning Pilot or Highlander, Iconic Garage in Burbank, CA regularly stocks quality pre-owned three-row SUVs — including Honda, Toyota, and more — with flexible financing and trade-in assistance. Check out our current inventory at Iconic Garage to see what's available today, or schedule an appointment and one of our team members will get back to you within an hour.