Drivers who want confident, smooth power will appreciate the 2026 Honda Pilot standard 3.5-liter V6 engine, which delivers 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and gives the Pilot a composed, responsive feel in a wide range of driving situations. When properly equipped, AWD Pilot models can tow up to 5,000 pounds, while FWD models offer up to 3,500 pounds of towing capability. The Pilot also comes with a standard Tow Mode, which adjusts powertrain response to better support trailer hauling.

The 2026 Toyota Highlander takes a different approach with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 265 horsepower on non-hybrid models. A Highlander Hybrid is also available for shoppers who prioritize fuel economy above all else. Although the hybrid model gives Toyota an efficiency advantage, the Pilot’s naturally aspirated V6 avoids the added complexity of a turbocharger and delivers a strong, proven powertrain for families who tow, travel, or prefer traditional V6 performance.

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Every 2026 Honda Pilot includes Honda Sensing as standard equipment, giving families a strong collection of driver-assistive safety technologies from the start. This suite includes adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, forward collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, road departure mitigation, and traffic sign recognition. On Pilot Elite and higher trims, Honda Sensing 360 adds expanded vehicle awareness with surround detection and enhanced side-sensing capability. The Toyota Highlander also comes well equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ standard across its lineup, so both SUVs provide strong safety coverage.

Technology is another area where the Pilot feels especially family-friendly. EX-L and higher Pilot trims include a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Pilot Elite further adds premium features such as a Bose audio system, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera as standard equipment. The Pilot also offers subscription-free long-distance remote start from the key fob, giving it a convenience advantage over the Highlander. Both SUVs support over-the-air infotainment updates.

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Interior space is where the 2026 Honda Pilot creates its clearest separation from the Toyota Highlander. The Pilot provides 32.0 inches of third-row legroom, while the Highlander offers only 27.7 inches. That difference of 4.3 inches can make a major impact for families who regularly use all three rows. In practical terms, the Pilot’s third row is comfortable enough for adults, while the Highlander’s rear-most seating area is better reserved for children.

Cargo capacity also gives the Pilot an advantage. Behind the third row, the Pilot offers 18.6 cubic feet of cargo room compared to 16.0 cubic feet in the Highlander. With all rear seats folded, the Pilot expands to 87.0 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, edging out the Highlander’s 84.3 cubic feet. The Pilot’s larger exterior dimensions also help explain its roomier cabin, measuring 199.9 inches long and 78.5 inches wide compared with the Highlander’s 194.9-inch length and 76.0-inch width.

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