What SUV is equal to the Honda Pilot?

The Honda Pilot’s closest rivals in the midsize, three‑row SUV segment aren’t a single match, but several models stand out as its equals: Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, and Mazda CX-90.

To understand what "equal" means in this market, buyers typically compare seating, cargo space, power, features, and price. The Pilot offers a smooth V6, standard three-row seating, and strong resale value, but the contenders above often push ahead in areas like horsepower, interior refinement, or standard tech depending on trim.

Closest rivals in the midsize 3-row class

Here are the main rivals that consistently appear in the same conversations as the Pilot, with a quick snapshot of what each brings to the table.

• Toyota Highlander — 2.4L turbo four with about 265 horsepower; available AWD; seating for up to eight; established reliability; typically priced in the mid‑$30k range when equipped for a base model.


• Hyundai Palisade — 3.8L V6 with about 291 horsepower; roomy interior with upscale feel; seating for up to eight; widely praised value; starts around the mid‑$30k range.


• Kia Telluride — 3.8L V6 with about 291 horsepower; strong interior quality and space; seating for up to eight; strong value and feature count; base pricing in the upper $30k range.


• Mazda CX-90 — 3.3L turbo inline‑6 with about 340 horsepower; premium interior and driving dynamics; three-row availability; typically higher starting price in the low-to-mid $40k range.


• Ford Explorer — multiple engines including a 2.3L turbo (around 300 hp) and a 3.0L twin‑turbo V6 (around 365 hp); flexible seating for seven; widely offered with AWD; pricing generally in the high $30k range.


• Nissan Pathfinder — 3.5L V6 around 284 horsepower; practical interior and user-friendly tech; seating for up to eight; starts in the mid‑$30k range.

These models share the segment and three-row practicality, but each prioritizes different strengths, whether it’s horsepower, interior refinement, or value for money.

How these models differ on key criteria

To help shoppers decide where the Pilot stands, here is a concise look at power, interior space, technology, and cost across the segment.

1. Power and efficiency: The Pilot’s 285-horsepower V6 is competitive, but the Mazdas CX-90 and certain Explorer variants push higher performance; fuel economy varies widely by drivetrain and engine.


2. Interior quality and cargo space: Palisade, Telluride, and CX-90 emphasize premium cabins in different ways; Pilot remains roomy and practical, with solid cargo room for family gear.


3. Third-row usability: Some rivals offer easier access or more comfortable seating in the back row; this is a defining decision point for families needing frequent use of all seats.


4. Tech and safety features: Hyundai and Kia models often bundle tech generously; Honda brings Honda Sensing and a straightforward infotainment setup; others vary by trim.


5. Value and warranty: Palisade and Telluride are often lauded for value; Mazda leans premium; Toyota emphasizes reliability; Honda holds strong resale value.


6. Reliability and ownership costs: Toyota typically leads for reliability; Honda is strong; Mazda has shown improving reliability; ownership costs vary by model and maintenance.

In practice, the choice depends on what buyers value most—fuel economy and reliability, interior luxury, or horsepower and tech. There isn’t a single “equal” to the Pilot; instead, a family of competitors covers a spectrum of priorities within the same class.

Summary

In the midsize three-row SUV segment, the Honda Pilot sits among several close rivals that each lean into different strengths. For the most part, the Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, and Mazda CX-90 are the models most often compared as equals, with Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder also serving as practical alternatives. Buyers should weigh power versus efficiency, interior comfort, and feature set to determine which model best fits their needs and budget.

Which is better, Honda Pilot or Chevy Tahoe?

The Honda Pilot is a more affordable, family-friendly SUV with better fuel efficiency, while the Chevy Tahoe is a larger, more powerful SUV focused on towing and luxury. Key differences include the Pilot's lower starting price and V6 engine compared to the Tahoe's higher price, standard V8, and greater towing capacity. The Tahoe generally offers more max cargo space, although the Pilot's flat-folding third row is more convenient for certain cargo needs. 
Honda Pilot

• Pros: More affordable starting price, better fuel economy, and a more practical choice for everyday family use. 
• Cons: Less powerful than the Tahoe, with a smaller maximum cargo capacity. 
• Best for: Buyers prioritizing a lower purchase price, better fuel efficiency, and standard family-friendly features. 

This video discusses the Honda Pilot's cargo and passenger space compared to the Chevrolet Tahoe: 46sJoe Dan ReedYouTube · Jan 9, 2021
Chevrolet Tahoe

• Pros: More powerful engine, greater towing capability, and more maximum cargo space.
• Cons: Higher starting price and lower fuel economy.
• Best for: Buyers needing more power for towing or hauling, and those who prioritize a larger, more powerful vehicle and are less concerned with fuel costs and higher price points. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the Honda Pilot's features: 55sDietrich's Car ChannelYouTube · Aug 17, 2024
Quick comparison

Feature	Honda Pilot	Chevy Tahoe
Price	Lower starting price	Higher starting price
Engine	V6 (285 hp)	V8 (355 hp)
Fuel Economy	Better city and highway MPG	Lower city and highway MPG
Towing	Lower towing capacity	Higher towing capacity
Cargo Space	Less max cargo space	More max cargo space
Reliability	Known for reliability	Less focus on reliability compared to practicality and power

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What is the best midsize SUV for the money?

The best midsize SUV for the money is often cited as the Kia Telluride for its overall excellence, or the Hyundai Santa Fe for its strong value and features, particularly under a certain price point. For those needing maximum space, the Toyota Grand Highlander is a top contender, while the Subaru Outback offers a more budget-friendly and adventure-ready option. Ultimately, the "best" depends on your specific needs for space, budget, and features. 
You can watch this video to see a comparison of the best midsize SUVs for 2025: 1mCar ConfectionsYouTube · Feb 15, 2025
Top recommendations for different priorities
This video reviews the best three-row SUVs across different price points: 54sCar ConfectionsYouTube · Jul 12, 2025

• Best all-around: The 2025 Kia Telluride is frequently ranked as the best midsize SUV overall, with a high score for its combination of features, quality, and value. 
• Best value under $45,000: The Hyundai Santa Fe is praised for its luxury-like features and good value, especially in its lower to mid-trim levels. It is also noted for its strong warranty. 
• Best for space: The Toyota Grand Highlander provides an exceptionally spacious and practical interior with a massive third row, making it an excellent choice for families needing maximum room. 
• Most affordable: The Kia Sorento is often mentioned as the most affordable midsize SUV with a starting price around $31,990. 
• Best for adventure/off-road: The Subaru Outback is a strong contender for adventure lovers. It offers standard all-wheel drive, good ground clearance, and cargo space, and is very fuel-efficient for the class. The newly redesigned 2026 model has a more traditional SUV appearance. 

What are the downfalls of a Honda Pilot?

Common cons for the Honda Pilot include transmission issues like jerking or hesitation, a potentially cramped third row for adults, and subpar acceleration and braking performance. Some model years have been associated with specific problems, such as electrical malfunctions, airbag defects, and premature brake/suspension issues. Other drawbacks can include a small standard infotainment screen and a lack of luxury features compared to some competitors.
 
Performance and driving

• Acceleration: Acceleration can be lackluster, with some reviewers noting it feels slow to respond, especially when accelerating from a stop or during passing maneuvers. 
• Braking: While stopping is generally smooth, the Pilot's emergency stopping distances are longer than those of some rivals. 
• Transmission: Some model years have reported transmission problems, including rough shifts, hesitation, and jerking. 
• Handling: Some have described the steering as vague and cornering as cumbersome. 

Interior and technology

• Third row: While the third row can fit adults, it is often cramped and better suited for children or short trips. 
• Infotainment: The standard touchscreen is considered small on lower trims compared to competitors. Some wireless features like the charger or phone pairing can be inconsistent. 
• Luxury features: The Pilot can lack certain luxury features found in competitors, such as cooled second-row seats or standard head-up displays on more trims. 

Reliability and build 

• Specific model years: Certain model years, such as 2003, 2004, 2005, 2011, 2016, and 2017, have been cited as having recurring issues with transmissions, airbags, or electrical systems. 
• Brake issues: Some owners have reported brake vibration, which may be due to warped rotors. 
• Windshield cracks: Some users have noted issues with windshields cracking easily, possibly due to thinner glass or a larger surface area. 

Other drawbacks

• Fuel economy: The Pilot may not be as fuel-efficient as some competitors. 
• Visibility: While generally good, some find the available surround-view camera system difficult to use due to a small screen and poor resolution. 
• Customization: There can be a lack of consistency in features across different trims, which may limit customization options for some buyers. 

What SUV compares to a Honda Pilot?

SUVs similar to the Honda Pilot include other three-row SUVs like the Toyota Highlander, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Volkswagen Atlas, and Ford Explorer. Other alternatives are the Chevy Traverse, which offers more third-row legroom and power, and the Mazda CX-90 and Nissan Pathfinder, which provide different driving experiences. 
This video reviews the 2026 Honda Pathfinder, a competitor to the Honda Pilot: 58sCar ConfectionsYouTube · Nov 21, 2025
Direct competitors with similar features

• Kia Telluride/Hyundai Palisade: Often praised for their upscale interiors and feature sets, they are direct competitors in the three-row SUV market. 
• Toyota Highlander: A popular and reliable option that competes closely with the Pilot. 
• Ford Explorer: Another long-standing rival with a similar size and feature set. 

Alternatives with different strengths

• Chevrolet Traverse: Offers a more spacious third row and more horsepower than the Pilot. 
• Volkswagen Atlas: Provides a more spacious interior and a different driving feel. 
• Mazda CX-90/CX-9: Known for a more sophisticated and sporty driving experience compared to the Pilot. 
• Dodge Durango: Offers a wider range of powerful engine options. 
• Nissan Pathfinder: Another capable three-row SUV from a direct competitor. 
• Honda Passport: A smaller SUV from the same brand, it is a good option if you don't need the Pilot's third row. 

You can watch this video to learn about the features of the 2025 Honda Pilot: 50sCar ConfectionsYouTube · Nov 21, 2025