Compare 2026 Honda Pilot vs. 2026 Toyota Highlander in Edmonds, WA
Your Midsize 3-Row SUV Comparison Guide
Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander: Finding Your Ideal 3-Row SUV
Your ideal 3-row SUV needs to tackle rainy Pacific Northwest commutes, handle daily family errands smoothly, keep everyone comfortable on long highway trips, and offer unmatched everyday utility. We have placed the 2026 Honda Pilot side-by-side with the 2026 Toyota Highlander to show why Honda's sophisticated midsize 3-row SUV is the greater pick for families throughout Snohomish and King Counties.
While the Toyota Highlander is a familiar option, the 2026 Honda Pilot delivers a significantly more refined interior, superior third-row legroom for adult passengers, a class-exclusive stowable 2nd-row middle seat, a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, and rugged off-road capability in the TrailSport trim. Powered by a proven 285-hp V6 engine with available i-VTM4® AWD and standard Honda Sensing® safety tech, the Pilot effortlessly outclasses the Highlander in cabin ergonomics, flexible cargo storage, and everyday convenience. At Lynnwood Honda in Edmonds, WA, we are excited to show you why the Pilot is the clear choice for your Pacific Northwest lifestyle.
Side-By-Side Comparison
How the comparison points matter in Edmonds, WA
Compare how the Honda Pilot elevates your daily drive through Edmonds with modern convenience, passenger comfort, and advanced engineering.
Powertrain Options
Enjoy smooth acceleration and towing confidence with a naturally aspirated V6 and 10-speed automatic transmission.
- Honda Pilot: Features a robust 285-hp 3.5L V6 engine paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission for linear throttle response along I-5.
- Toyota Highlander: Uses a smaller 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivers 265 hp and relies on an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Third-Row Legroom
Provide comfortable seating for teens and adults across all three rows during family road trips.
- Honda Pilot: Offers a spacious third row with 32.5 inches of legroom, making it comfortable for full-size adults and growing families.
- Toyota Highlander: Restricts third-row legroom to a tight 28.0 inches, best suited only for small children.
Seating Versatility
Adapt your cabin space effortlessly to handle either extra passengers or long cargo items.
- Honda Pilot: Offers a class-exclusive removable 2nd-row middle seat that stows underneath the rear cargo floor, giving you captain's chair comfort on demand.
- Toyota Highlander: Requires deciding between fixed 7- or 8-passenger layouts at purchase without underfloor seat storage.
Cargo Space
Store luggage, gear, and grocery hauls with ease behind the third row.
- Honda Pilot: Delivers 18.6 cubic feet of rear cargo space with all seats up, expanding to 87.0 cubic feet with all rear rows folded flat.
- Toyota Highlander: Offers a smaller 16.0 cubic feet of rear cargo volume behind the third row.
Audio System
Transform your daily carpool into an immersive listening experience for all three rows.
- Honda Pilot: Available Bose Premium Sound System with 12 speakers and Centerpoint technology provides crisp, high-fidelity sound throughout the cabin.
- Toyota Highlander: Available JBL® audio system with 11 speakers offered on higher trim levels.
Safety Technology
Comprehensive active safety technology provides extra peace of mind when hauling family.
- Honda Pilot: Standard Honda Sensing® includes Collision Mitigation Braking System™, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Traffic Jam Assist.
- Toyota Highlander: Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ includes driver assistance features.
The Honda Pilot advantage
While both 3-row SUVs are well-known, the 2026 Honda Pilot excels with its spacious interior, superior third-row legroom, and refined driving dynamics. Featuring a class-exclusive stowable 2nd-row middle seat, a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, and standard Honda Sensing® technology, the Pilot provides a superior daily driving experience. Visit Lynnwood Honda in Edmonds, WA to explore the Pilot's winning features in person.
Why choose the Honda Pilot?
The Honda Pilot stands out for its family-focused cabin and cutting-edge technology suite. With its available 9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, and available i-VTM4® torque-vectoring AWD, it delivers a sophisticated environment that makes every journey across the Pacific Northwest enjoyable.
Our current selection of new Honda Pilot models is ready for your test drive. From well-equipped LX and EX-L configurations to rugged TrailSport and luxurious Touring or Elite trims, Lynnwood Honda has the ideal 3-row SUV for your lifestyle.
Honda Pilot
A versatile midsize 3-row SUV powered by a 285-hp V6 engine, featuring a 10-speed transmission, stowable 2nd-row seating, and adult-friendly 3rd-row legroom.
View Pilot InventoryToyota Highlander
A 3-row family SUV powered by a 2.4L turbo 4-cylinder engine, designed for daily commuting with standard safety features.
Inquire About the HighlanderModel comparison next steps
Browse our online inventory to view available exterior colors, interior appointments, and technology packages. Our knowledgeable team at Lynnwood Honda is ready to help you discover the ideal trim for your commute.
View Pilot Inventory
Explore live inventory listings, photos, trim specs, and current vehicle offers.
Finance Resources
Apply for online pre-approval and explore custom finance or lease options.
Trade-In Tools
Receive a quick online estimate for your current trade-in vehicle.
Contact the Dealership
Connect with our team to schedule your test drive or ask model questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander?
The Honda Pilot offers significantly more third-row legroom (32.5 inches vs. 28.0 inches), greater rear cargo volume behind the 3rd row (18.6 cu. ft. vs. 16.0 cu. ft.), a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, and a class-exclusive stowable 2nd-row middle seat, whereas the Highlander features tighter 3rd-row seating and an 8-speed automatic.
How many passengers can the Honda Pilot seat?
The Honda Pilot seats up to 8 passengers, featuring a class-exclusive removable 2nd-row middle seat on select trims that stows conveniently beneath the rear cargo floor.
Does the Honda Pilot come with Apple CarPlay?
Yes, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration come standard on the Honda Pilot, with wireless connectivity available on EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, and Elite trims.
Where is Lynnwood Honda located?
Lynnwood Honda is located at 22020 Highway 99 in Edmonds, WA, serving drivers throughout Snohomish and King Counties.
Can I schedule a test drive for the Honda Pilot online?
Yes, you can easily schedule a test drive online or contact our sales team at Lynnwood Honda to set up an appointment.
What safety features are standard on the Honda Pilot?
Every Honda Pilot comes standard with the Honda Sensing® safety suite, featuring Collision Mitigation Braking System™, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, and Traffic Jam Assist.
Does the Honda Pilot have good off-road capability?
Yes, the Pilot TrailSport trim is engineered for off-road driving with steel skid plates, all-terrain tires, off-road tuned suspension, and the TrailWatch™ camera system.
How do I apply for financing at Lynnwood Honda?
You can complete our secure online financing application or visit our Edmonds showroom to speak with a finance specialist.
What kind of maintenance does my Honda need?
Regular maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections keeps your Honda performing at its best. The Honda Maintenance Minder™ system automatically alerts you when service is due.
What engine powers the Honda Pilot?
The Honda Pilot is powered by a robust 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Ready for a test drive?
Experience the Honda Pilot for yourself. Contact our team at Lynnwood Honda to schedule a test drive and explore our current inventory today.