2026 Honda Pilot vs. 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander

New Honda Pilot Inventory Why Buy from Heather Cannon Honda Honda Pilot Research Hub

The three-row SUV segment is a battlefield, and for Ponca City families, the decision often comes down to two titans: the 2026 Honda Pilot and the Toyota Grand Highlander. While the Toyota is a formidable competitor, a technical analysis reveals distinct engineering philosophies. The Pilot sticks to a proven naturally aspirated V6, while the Grand Highlander relies on a turbocharged 4-cylinder.

Here is the data-backed comparison to help you decide.

Powertrain: V6 Smoothness vs. Turbo Strain


2026 Honda Pilot: 3.5L V6 engine producing 285 HP and 262 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission for seamless shifting.	2026 Toyota Grand Highlander: Uses a 2.4L Turbocharged 4-cylinder. While it offers torque, it lacks the refinement and proven long-term durability of a naturally aspirated V6 engine block.

Interior Dimensions: The Cargo King

Space is the primary reason you buy a 3-row SUV. While the Grand Highlander markets itself on size, the official SAE cargo volume measurements show the Pilot has a massive advantage when the seats are folded flat.

Dimension	2026 Honda Pilot	Toyota Grand Highlander	Advantage
Max Cargo Volume	111.8 cu. ft.	97.5 cu. ft.	Honda (+14.3 cu. ft.)
Passenger Volume	158.4 cu. ft.	153.3 cu. ft.	Honda (+5.1 cu. ft.)
Front Headroom	40.5 in.	41.5 in.	Toyota
3rd Row Legroom	32.5 in.	33.5 in.	Comparable
Analysis: The Pilot offers significantly more total utility. That extra 14.3 cubic feet is equivalent to roughly three extra large suitcases or a cooler and camping gear that would not fit in the Toyota.

AWD Technology: i-VTM4™ Advantage

	Not all All-Wheel Drive systems are created equal. Toyota: Uses a slip-and-grip system that reacts after wheels lose traction. Honda Pilot: Uses the i-VTM4™ Torque Vectoring AWD System. This system can send up to 70% of engine torque to the rear wheels and then distribute 100% of that torque to either the left or right rear wheel. This provides superior cornering stability on dry pavement and genuine capability in Oklahoma mud or snow.

Not all All-Wheel Drive systems are created equal.

Toyota: Uses a slip-and-grip system that reacts after wheels lose traction.

Honda Pilot: Uses the i-VTM4™ Torque Vectoring AWD System. This system can send up to 70% of engine torque to the rear wheels and then distribute 100% of that torque to either the left or right rear wheel. This provides superior cornering stability on dry pavement and genuine capability in Oklahoma mud or snow.

Verdict

If you prioritize a turbocharged kick, the Toyota is an option. But for families who demand maximum cargo capacity, V6 reliability, and true torque-vectoring AWD, the 2026 Honda Pilot is the superior engineering choice.

New Honda Pilot Inventory Why Buy from Heather Cannon Honda

May not represent actual vehicle. (Options, colors, trim and body style may vary)

*Any MPG listed is based on model year EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid only) and other factors. For additional information about EPA ratings, visit http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/label/learn-more-PHEV-label.shtml .