2021 Honda Pilot vs 2021 Toyota Highlander
Reliability Side-by-Side
2021
Honda Pilot
Grade A-
A supremely practical and mechanically solid family hauler, though its tech stack might test your patience occasionally.
2021
Toyota Highlander
Grade A-
A supremely reliable family SUV that masterfully balances practicality with enduring quality, offering peace of mind for years to come.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2021 Toyota Highlander
Score 90/100 vs 88/100
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 | 2021 Honda Pilot | 2021 Toyota Highlander★ |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $450-650 | $450-650 |
| Moderate Repairs | $600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., power tailgate, VCM-related spark plugs) | $500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., brakes, suspension links) |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 20 / 27 | 21 / 29 |
| MSRP (New) | $32,700 | $35,085 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2021 Honda Pilot
Infotainment/Electrical System
5,000-60,000 mi
Power Tailgate Mechanism
30,000-80,000 mi
Engine (VCM-related)
60,000-120,000 mi
2021 Toyota Highlander
Infotainment System
5,000-40,000 mi
Fuel Pump Recall (Fixed)
10,000-50,000 mi
Brake System Wear
30,000-60,000 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 2021 Honda Pilot and 2021 Toyota Highlander stand as two of the most popular and frequently compared three-row mid-size SUVs on the market. Both vehicles appeal strongly to families seeking practicality, reliability, and safety, making them direct competitors for many buyers. Consumers often consider these models when they need ample passenger and cargo space, a comfortable ride for long journeys, and robust safety features. The key decision factors typically revolve around driving dynamics, interior comfort and technology, available cargo versatility, and long-term ownership costs and reliability. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2021 Honda Pilot: 1. Nine-speed automatic transmission issues: While the 2021 model saw improvements, some owners still reported clunky or hesitant shifts, particularly at lower speeds or when downshifting. Earlier models (2016-2018) with the ZF-sourced nine-speed were more prone to these issues, and while software updates mitigated them, occasional complaints persisted. 2. Infotainment system glitches: Less common in 2021 than in prior years, but some users reported instances of the touchscreen freezing, slow responses, or connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, though often resolved with system resets. 2021 Toyota Highlander: 1. Fuel pump recall: A significant issue for 2020-2021 Highlander models was a recall related to a faulty fuel pump that could fail, causing the engine to stall while driving. Toyota issued a recall, and affected vehicles were eligible for a replacement fuel pump at no cost. 2. Wind noise: Some owners of the 2021 Highlander reported noticeable wind noise at highway speeds, particularly around the A-pillars or side mirrors. This varied from vehicle to vehicle and was often considered a minor annoyance rather than a significant defect.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When new, the 2021 Honda Pilot generally had a slightly lower starting MSRP than the 2021 Toyota Highlander, which could make it appear as a better initial value. However, considering used prices today, the Highlander tends to hold its value exceptionally well, often depreciating less than the Pilot, especially the hybrid models. This robust resale value helps to offset its potentially higher initial purchase price. Insurance costs for both vehicles are generally comparable, as they fall into similar safety and repair cost categories for mid-size SUVs. However, regional variations and individual driver profiles will significantly influence exact premiums. Maintenance costs for both Honda and Toyota vehicles are renowned for being relatively low. Both brands benefit from widely available parts and extensive service networks. Historically, Toyota has a slight edge in terms of perceived long-term reliability and lower repair frequency, particularly for its V6 and hybrid powertrains, which can translate to marginally lower maintenance costs over many years of ownership. Resale value is where the Highlander truly shines. Toyota vehicles, particularly the Highlander, consistently rank among the best in their segment for retaining value, often leading the market. The Pilot also has strong resale value but typically trails the Highlander by a small margin. This strong resale performance makes the Highlander an excellent long-term investment.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2021 Honda Pilot
Products for 2021 Toyota Highlander
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.