2015 Honda Pilot vs 2015 Toyota Highlander vs 2015 Mazda CX-9
Reliability Side-by-Side
2015
Honda Pilot
Grade B+
A highly capable family SUV, but requires awareness and potentially proactive mitigation of its VCM system for true peace of mind.
2015
Toyota Highlander
Grade A-
A supremely reliable family hauler, offering peace of mind with minimal common concerns.
2015
Mazda CX-9
Grade C+
A fun-to-drive family SUV with excellent utility, but prone to costly engine and rust issues that require careful consideration.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2015 Toyota Highlander
Score 89/100 vs 85/100
Autojunket OSC · OSC Transfer
Sell your car for what it's worth.
Log every service. Sell with a signed PDF. Every receipt, mileage-verified, in the buyer's hands.
Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2015 Honda Pilot | 2015 Toyota Highlander★ | 2015 Mazda CX-9 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $400-600 | $400-600 | $450-700 |
| Moderate Repairs | $500-1,500 occasionally | $500-1,500 occasionally | $600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., power steering pump, suspension components) |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 18 / 25 | 19 / 25 | 17 / 24 |
| MSRP (New) | $29,870 | $29,665 | $29,985 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Printed Owner's Guidebooks · $29.99 each · free US shipping
2015 Honda Pilot
Reliability report · logs · 13 chapters
2015 Toyota Highlander
Reliability report · logs · 13 chapters
2015 Mazda CX-9
Reliability report · logs · 13 chapters
KSP Rear Adjustable Camber kits | For MDX TSX Accord Odysey Pilot Replacement
1992-2018 Toyota Camry 5x4.5 Wheel Adapters Tacoma Highlander 20mm Hubcentric | KSP Performance
1-3" Lift Upper Control Arms for 2004-2026 Nissan and 2018-2026 Dongfeng KSP Performance
Biggest Risks on Each
2015 Honda Pilot
Engine (VCM System)
60,000-120,000 mi
Automatic Transmission
80,000-150,000 mi
Power Steering System
70,000-130,000 mi
2015 Toyota Highlander
Cooling System (V6)
70,000-120,000 mi
HVAC System
50,000-100,000 mi
Power Liftgate
80,000-130,000 mi
2015 Mazda CX-9
Engine Variable Valve Timing (VVT) System
80,000-120,000 mi
Rust and Corrosion
50,000-100,000 mi
Power Steering System
60,000-100,000 mi
Get the Full Report on Each
7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.
Free · Instant delivery · No account required
Autojunket
Free
per report
Carfax
$44.99
per report
OSC
$9.99/mo
unlimited
Not sure yet? See a real, unblurred sample report →
Editorial Take
The 2015 Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Mazda CX-9 represent three distinct interpretations of the mid-size, three-row SUV segment. Buyers often compare these vehicles when seeking practical family transportation that balances passenger capacity, cargo flexibility, and daily usability. The Highlander typically appeals to those prioritizing refinement, comfort, and unwavering reliability, while the Pilot caters to families needing maximum interior space and a more rugged, boxy design. The CX-9, on the other hand, targets drivers who still desire an engaging experience behind the wheel, even with a larger family hauler. Key decision factors among these three include outright space, driving dynamics, long-term reliability, and overall value. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2015 Honda Pilot: 1. VTEC Oil Leaks: Issues with the Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system, particularly leaks from the valve cover gaskets or spool valve, are common on the 3.5L V6 engine, often seen at or beyond 100,000 miles. This can lead to visible oil leaks and necessitate gasket replacement. 2. Automatic Transmission Shifting Issues: Some owners have reported harsh or delayed shifts, particularly in earlier examples of the 2015 model's five-speed automatic transmission. While not universal, it's worth checking transmission fluid levels and condition during pre-purchase inspections. 3. Power Steering Pump Noise/Failure: The power steering pump can develop a whine or fail over time, often requiring replacement. Symptoms include increased steering effort or groaning noises, typically after 80,000 miles. 2015 Toyota Highlander: 1. Water Pump Leaks: The water pump on the 3.5L V6 engine can be prone to leaking, particularly as the vehicle approaches or exceeds 100,000 miles. This can lead to coolant loss and overheating if not addressed promptly. 2. Infotainment System Glitches: While generally reliable, some owners have reported minor issues with the Entune infotainment system, such as freezing, slow response, or Bluetooth connectivity problems. Software updates can sometimes resolve these, but hardware replacement may be needed in more persistent cases. 3. Rear Hatch Liftgate Struts: Over time, the gas struts that assist in opening and holding up the power liftgate can weaken, causing the hatch to fall or not stay open on its own. This is a common wear item, especially after 7-8 years of use. 2015 Mazda CX-9: 1. Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Actuator/Chain Issues: The 3.7L V6 engine in the CX-9 can suffer from VVT system problems, including stretched timing chains or faulty VVT actuators, which can lead to engine noise (like a rattle on startup), rough idle, or a check engine light. These issues typically appear after 70,000-100,000 miles and can be costly to repair. 2. Power Steering Pump Failure: Similar to the Pilot, the CX-9's hydraulic power steering pump is a known weak point and can fail, leading to heavy steering or a whining noise. This often requires replacement after 60,000-80,000 miles. 3. Rear Suspension Bushing Wear: Owners in regions with harsh winters and road salt have reported premature wear or corrosion of rear suspension components and bushings, which can lead to clunking noises or poor alignment.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When new, all three vehicles had very similar starting MSRPs around $30,000 for their base front-wheel-drive models. In the used market today (2024), a 2015 Honda Pilot typically sells for $12,000 to $18,000 depending on mileage and condition. A 2015 Toyota Highlander generally commands $14,000 to $20,000, while a 2015 Mazda CX-9 is usually found between $10,000 and $15,000. Insurance costs for these vehicles are generally comparable, falling within average ranges for mid-size SUVs, though the Highlander might be marginally higher due to its stronger resale value and potential for higher repair costs in some instances. Maintenance costs for Honda and Toyota are generally considered to be lower than average, with widely available parts and skilled technicians. Mazda's maintenance costs are also reasonable, but specific repairs like VVT system components or power steering pump failures can be more expensive. Resale value is a strong point for both the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot. The Highlander typically leads the class in retaining its value, followed closely by the Pilot. The Mazda CX-9, while offering a strong value proposition as a used vehicle, generally depreciates more quickly than its Honda and Toyota counterparts, leading to lower resale values.
Editorial Verdict
Best for families: The 2015 Honda Pilot. Its boxy shape and upright seating provide the most generous and genuinely usable third-row space, making it ideal for larger families or those who frequently use all three rows. Its cargo capacity is also unmatched, making it a pragmatic choice for family adventures. The Toyota Highlander is a close second, offering superior comfort and refinement. Best for commuters: The 2015 Toyota Highlander. Its smooth, quiet ride, comfortable seats, and slightly better fuel economy (V6 FWD) make it an excellent companion for daily commutes and long highway stretches. The Mazda CX-9 could appeal to commuters who value driving dynamics, but the Highlander's overall refinement makes it a more relaxing choice for routine drives. Best for enthusiasts: The 2015 Mazda CX-9. Without a doubt, the CX-9 offers the most engaging and car-like driving experience. Its precise steering, firm suspension, and athletic handling make it genuinely enjoyable on a winding road, setting it apart from its more family-focused competitors. Best value overall: The 2015 Toyota Highlander. While it might command a slightly higher used price, its exceptional reliability, strong resale value, and well-rounded package of comfort, refinement, and safety features make it an outstanding long-term investment. Its lower incidence of common mechanical issues compared to the other two also contributes to lower unexpected repair costs over time.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2015 Honda Pilot
Products for 2015 Toyota Highlander
Products for 2015 Mazda CX-9
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.