Reliability Comparisonsuv · How we score

2019 Toyota highlander vs 2019 Honda pilot

Our Recommendation

2019 Toyota highlander

Higher KeepScore, low risk, and a stronger overall profile make it the clear pick.

Reliability Side-by-Side

2019

Toyota highlander

Winner
92/ 100
LOW RISK

Grade A-

A bulletproof family hauler that delivers peace of mind and keeps going strong for hundreds of thousands of miles.

2019

Honda pilot

86/ 100
LOW RISK

Grade B+

A highly practical and generally dependable family SUV, though its transmission and infotainment require a watchful eye.

Best For

Best for Reliability

2019 Toyota highlander

Score 92/100 vs 86/100

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Cost of Ownership

Line Item2019 Toyota highlander2019 Honda pilot
Annual Maintenance$400-600$400-600
Moderate Repairs$500-1,500 occasionally$500-1,500 occasionally (for items like major brake service, infotainment unit replacement, or transmission valve body work)
MPG (City/Hwy)20 / 2720 / 27
MSRP (New)$33,880$31,450

Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.

Biggest Risks on Each

2019 Toyota highlander

  • Infotainment System

    Any mileage, often appears early mi

  • Minor Suspension Components

    50,000-80,000 mi

  • Power Liftgate Struts

    60,000-100,000 mi

2019 Honda pilot

  • Transmission

    15,000-60,000 mi

  • Electrical/Infotainment

    5,000-40,000 mi

  • Brakes

    20,000-45,000 mi

Get the Full Report on Each

7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.

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Editorial Take

The 2019 Toyota Highlander and 2019 Honda Pilot are perennial rivals in the highly competitive three-row mid-size SUV segment. Both vehicles are top choices for families, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and safety features. Buyers often compare them due to their similar size, passenger capacity, and reputations for reliability and strong resale value. Key decision factors typically revolve around driving dynamics, interior space and flexibility, technology offerings, and overall long-term ownership costs. This comparison will detail their strengths and weaknesses to help determine which SUV best fits specific needs. HEAD-TO-

Reliability & Common Issues

2019

Value & Cost of Ownership

When purchased new, the 2019 Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot were priced very similarly across their respective trim levels, with base models starting around $31,000 and top trims exceeding $48,000. In the used market today, a 2019 Highlander V6 in good condition with average mileage (e.g., XLE or Limited trim) typically ranges from $25,000 to $35,000, depending heavily on mileage, condition, and region. A comparable 2019 Pilot V6 (e.g., EX-L or Touring trim) will similarly fetch between $23,000 and $33,000. Both vehicles hold their value exceptionally well, making them smart used car purchases. Insurance costs for both models are generally in the mid-range for the SUV segment, with minor variations based on trim level, driver history, and location. There isn't a significant cost difference between the two in this regard. Maintenance costs for both Toyota and Honda are historically below average compared to the overall market, thanks to their renowned reliability. Parts are readily available, and technicians familiar with these brands are widespread. The Highlander might have a slight edge due to its slightly simpler V6 engine design, lacking the VCM system that can, in some cases, lead to more involved maintenance on the Pilot. Resale value is a huge strength for both the Highlander and the Pilot. Both models are consistently at the top of their class for retaining value over time. Toyota traditionally holds a marginal edge over Honda in overall resale value, making the Highlander a slightly better long-term investment from a depreciation standpoint, though the Pilot remains excellent.

Editorial Verdict

BEST FOR FAMILIES: The 2019 Honda Pilot. Its more spacious and accessible third row, slightly larger overall cargo capacity, and standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on most trims make it marginally more family-friendly, especially for those who frequently use the third row. BEST FOR COMMUTERS: The 2019 Toyota Highlander. Its quieter cabin, smoother and more refined ride quality, and excellent highway fuel economy (especially with the Hybrid option) make it a more relaxing companion for daily commutes and long road trips. BEST FOR ENTHUSIASTS: Neither vehicle is truly designed for driving enthusiasts. However, for an SUV, the 2019 Honda Pilot offers a slightly more engaging driving experience with its more responsive steering and firmer ride, which might appeal to those who prioritize a bit more road feel. BEST VALUE OVERALL: The 2019 Toyota Highlander. While both offer exceptional value, the Highlander's slightly stronger long-term reliability ratings, traditionally higher resale value, and slightly more premium interior feel give it a narrow edge. Its comprehensive standard safety suite across all trims also adds significant value.

Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles

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Frequently Asked Questions