2019 Toyota highlander vs 2020 Honda pilot
Reliability Side-by-Side
2019
Toyota highlander
Grade A-
A bulletproof family hauler that delivers peace of mind and keeps going strong for hundreds of thousands of miles.
2020
Honda pilot
Grade B
A practical and safe family SUV that requires informed ownership to navigate its known powertrain weaknesses.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2019 Toyota highlander
Score 92/100 vs 82/100
Best for Lowest Risk
2019 Toyota highlander
low risk
Best for Lowest Annual Upkeep
2019 Toyota highlander
$400-600
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2019 Toyota highlander★ | 2020 Honda pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $400-600 | $500-700 |
| Moderate Repairs | $500-1,500 occasionally | $500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., AC condenser, suspension components, non-critical transmission repairs) |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 20 / 27 | 19 / 27 |
| MSRP (New) | $31,530 | $31,550 |
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
2020 Honda pilot
9-Speed Automatic Transmission
40,000-80,000 mi
Engine Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)
60,000-100,000 mi
HVAC System
50,000-90,000 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 2020 Honda Pilot are perennial competitors in the fiercely contested three-row mid-size SUV segment. These vehicles are commonly cross-shopped by families seeking a blend of practicality, safety, and comfort for daily driving and road trips. Consumers considering the Highlander often prioritize a supremely smooth ride, a reputation for bulletproof reliability, and refined interior. The Pilot, on the other hand, appeals to buyers looking for maximum passenger and cargo space, a more engaging driving experience, and a comprehensive suite of standard technology features. Key decision factors between these two models often revolve around interior room, driving dynamics, and the inclusion of modern infotainment capabilities. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2019 Toyota Highlander The 2019 Highlander, representing the final year of its third generation, benefits from years of refinement, contributing to its strong reliability reputation. 1. Fuel Pump Recall: Some 2019-2020 Highlander models were subject to a recall for a potentially defective low-pressure fuel pump that could fail, leading to engine stalling. This was a component supplier issue and most affected vehicles should have had the repair performed by Toyota dealerships. 2. Infotainment Glitches: A small number of owners reported occasional freezing or unresponsiveness with the Entune infotainment system, typically resolved with system reboots or software updates. This was not a widespread mechanical issue. 2020 Honda Pilot The 2020 Pilot is part of the third generation, which had been on sale since 2016. While generally reliable, some specific points have been noted. 1. 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Behavior: Models equipped with the ZF-sourced 9-speed automatic transmission (found in Touring AWD, Elite, and Black Edition trims) have faced criticism for occasional rough shifts, hesitation, or clunkiness at low speeds. While Honda issued software updates to address some of these, some drivers continued to report inconsistent operation. 2. Infotainment System Responsiveness: Honda's infotainment system, particularly the 8-inch touchscreen on EX trims and above, has been described by some as less intuitive and slower to respond than competitors, occasionally freezing or requiring reboots. 3. HVAC Blower Motor Failure: While not exclusive to the 2020 model year, some Pilot owners across the generation have reported premature failure of the HVAC blower motor, resulting in a loss of fan function.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When considering value, both vehicles offer strong propositions, but with different strengths. The starting MSRPs when new were very similar, with the 2019 Highlander at $31,530 and the 2020 Pilot at $31,550. On the used market, a 2019 Highlander (being the end of a generation) and a 2020 Pilot (mid-cycle with updated standard features) typically command strong prices. The Highlander generally holds its value slightly better over time due to Toyota's sterling reputation for long-term reliability and lower overall ownership costs. Insurance costs for both models are generally comparable, falling within the average range for mid-size SUVs. Maintenance costs are also quite reasonable for both Honda and Toyota, known for their accessible parts and widespread service networks. However, Toyota often has a slight edge in terms of the lowest long-term maintenance expenses, especially for routine servicing. The 9-speed transmission in higher trim Pilots, if issues arise, could lead to potentially higher repair costs than the Highlander's proven 8-speed unit. Resale value for the Toyota Highlander is consistently among the best in its class, often outperforming the Honda Pilot, which itself has an excellent resale value but typically trails the Highlander by a narrow margin.
Editorial Verdict
Best for families: 2020 Honda Pilot. Its superior third-row space, easier access to the rear seats, and larger cargo capacity make it the more accommodating choice for families with growing children or those frequently carrying more than five passengers. The standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Honda Sensing also enhance its family-friendliness. Best for commuters: 2019 Toyota Highlander. Its exceptionally smooth and quiet ride, coupled with its highly refined powertrain, makes for a more serene and less fatiguing commute. Its proven reliability also translates to peace of mind for daily drivers. Best for enthusiasts: Neither vehicle is an enthusiast's choice. However, if forced to choose, the 2020 Honda Pilot offers slightly more engaging steering feel and quicker acceleration, giving it a marginally more dynamic driving character. Best value overall: This depends on priorities. For long-term ownership, proven reliability, and superior resale value, the 2019 Toyota Highlander edges out the Pilot. Its bulletproof reputation means fewer unexpected costs down the road. However, if modern infotainment features like standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and superior interior space are higher priorities for a similar purchase price on the used market, the 2020 Honda Pilot offers a compelling value proposition in terms of features and practicality for its model year. The Highlander provides a more traditional, refined experience, while the Pilot leans into versatility and modern tech.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2019 Toyota highlander
Products for 2020 Honda pilot
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