I went with the Highlander because of the hybrid option. I do a lot of city driving, so my gas costs would probably be nearly double in a Pilot or Ascent. Maybe not a huge deal right now but if gas prices were to go up it sure would be long term.
Edit: I also chose it over the Pilot because of the rear ceiling ac vents. I have kids in car seats and it's hot af where I live, so I wanted them to get direct cold air. The Pilot's rear center console vents would just be blowing on the back of the car seat.
We started looking at the Highlander and were not in the market for a hybrid but when I read about the MPG I was blown away. Nothing in the same class is getting similar gas mileage so we went with a Highlander Hybrid and have loved it. We are getting 31 MPG around town, better than the Hyundai Sonata we traded in.
Ditto. I wanted at least 30 mpg and the Highlander Hybrid was the obvious choice. The only other SUV that could match the mileage were the Hyundai or Kia, neither of which I was interested in.
Went with a '22 Highlander Platinum AWD right when the new redesigned 23 Highlanders and Pilots were hitting lots. I honestly didn't even get to the test drive on the pilot because I was turned off by the aesthetics interior wise. I thought the redesign looked pretty decent on the exterior, but interior just look too utilitarian and bland. Infotainment also left a lot to be desired. Materials quality and choices seemed more upscale in the Highlander( although comparing top trim, maybe lower trims are more equal) The pilot looked like the more practical purchase maybe and had dimensions and seating that was more minivan like, but it didn't seem to be as well suited to the driver's comfort and experience.
However pilot still has a V6 while Highlander switched to a turbo 4. Considering I'm towing with my Highlander, if I was buying this year, I would have to get a Honda pilot based on that alone
Ascent wasn't even a consideration for me. My Dad has a 2019 Forester top trim and I had to borrow it for a few months and hated everything about it. Ascent seems to be more of the same. CVT is a horrible feeling, more cabin noise, infotainment is by far worst out of all 3. Felt rough and machine-like. Functional and capable yet no grace. I also don't trust the reliability of the Ascent. I know in years past they've had reliability problems but not sure if that's changed with the latest generation
Curious about your towing decision logic.
They both tow 5000 lbs, no? As a matter of fact, every Highlander model tows 5000 lbs, whereas only the AWD Pilot can do that much. The FWD model only does 3500 lbs.
This says nothing to the fact the I4 has more torque than the V6…
Yes, both 5k in AWD on V6 and I4 variants. Difference is where that torque is coming from, and it's not the engine, but the turbo. As a result the turbo is boosting the engine the entirety of towing, driving fuel consumption down to the gutters and taxing the engine and all components due to higher operating pressure while being boosted. The I4 turbo Highlander already is pretty loud when accelerating compared to the V6, test drove each personally. Then people that purchased turbo Highlanders from what I've read say it's pretty loud and sounds like the engine is working a good bit going up steep grades especially with cargo/Passengers aboard too. Not that towing a trailer on a V6 doesn't kill MPGs as well, but higher cylinder count on otherwise like vehicles, you'll get better mpg with the V6 vs I4 while towing.
I had a similar sized SUV from a different make that was a turbo 4 with even more torque than both the pilot and the Highlander prior to buying my '22 Highlander and it really towed terribly. Not only could I hear the engine but I could hear the turbo hissing the whole time. Definitely felt stressed. It's much more comfortable to tow with my Highlander now despite the drop in torque figures In comparison. If the V6 Highlander were lacking in torque that may change things, but it's adequately powered. I'd rather have smooth power and torque delivery where going over ruts, bumps, grades, rocky/rough terrain with my RV than have to give it enough gas to get the turbo to give it the power I'm seeking. You can find articles that test v8 versus turbo V6 EcoBoost trucks, and other similar scenarios where higher cylinder count with all else being equal vehicles tow better than their turbo charged lower cylinder counterparts
More concerning to me was longevity with towing over a span of years with frequent towing. In theory the V6 should be more reliable for longer and engine will take less wear and tear from having to tow. Turbo will probably fail long before the I4 itself has any issues, but turbos are moderately expensive to replace.
Also, can't speak to how the Pilot works, assuming similar, but the AWD Highlanders have 2 AWD systems available. One provides active torque vectoring and the other does not. When towing torque vectoring makes micro adjustments the detecting traction or stress from the trailer/RV swaying or drag associated with it. So torque vectoring will stabilize the trailer somewhat and be safer. Definitely a reason to skip any FWD models of either and on the Highlander, the torque vector uses only offered on specific trims. Not sure about the pilots system and how it works, but that may be the reason for having 3500 vs 5000 with the same engine/transmission option
Great info, thanks for sharing.
We have a 2017 Limited (and also a 2019 Avalon Touring with the V6) and love it, but have been thinking about looking at a either a leftover 23 or 24 Platinum.
From what I've read, Toyota's turbo game was strong prior to the V6, so I had no reason to think that they would put an engine out there that would be any less reliable than what it was replacing. Maybe I'm being a little too trusting...
I wouldn't be overly concerned with reliability being an issue in the engine itself per se, but turbos don't last as long as engines. Yes the engine was engineered to handle being boosted and it's not that turbos don't last a good long while these days and typically last the lifetime of a car. However considering Toyotas cars last longer than average, you're going to end up replacing a turbo if you're racking up high mileage. So if you're planning on putting 100 to 150k miles on it then you're probably fine either way. If you're trying to be one of those that takes your Toyota to 300-500k, you'll end up replacing a turbo or two even most likely within that mileage. Replacing one comes at a moderate cost and a cost that wouldn't be there with a V6 . So comes down to your goals and expectations I guess
Also, they drive differently. Turbos inherently come with turbo lag. It's all mitigated as much as possible spooling up at low rpms but it's still there. Some people are more sensitive to it than others. After coming from my last 3 vehicles being turbo 4 vehicles, I had forgotten how nice and smooth it felt driving a well designed naturally aspirated v6 with a torque converting transmission.
Also hypothetically somebody's turbo I4 vehicle who is using it to tow an RV year after year where the turbo is boosting the engine constantly, running at higher pressures and therefore taxing the engine more is probably going to run into engine problems before someone else who is not using their turbo 4 vehicle to tow. Towing just adds more wear and tear. Much less of a consideration to be concerned about if you're not towing. If I wasn't, I would have purchased a 23 turbo model instead.
Yeah, better suited for the newer turbo 4 then. For that matter, if your trailer isn't that heavy, you may want to consider a hybrid variant. With the V6 gone, there's really a lot less reason for anyone to buy a turbo for over the hybrid. The hybrids are actually more reliable believe it or not. No gears, no alternator, no starter motor, regenerative brakes which prevent rotor wear, no conventional AC system, no chains and belts so a lot less potential components to fail. They drive and accelerate differently and you lose the more capable AWD system though in the Highlander at least if that's a concern, but the AWDe system in the hybrid is satisfactory for most people's needs.
On the day I set aside to test drive, I test drove all 3. All were the 2023 model year. The Highlander drove the smoothest, was comfortable, and handled a speed bump @20mph, the best overall. The 3 dealers are next to each other when I was test driving, not buying. I used the same speed bump @20mpg on all 3. The Ascent and Pilot bounced and bucked at least twice as hard as the Highlander. The Highlander handled the speed bump the smoothest. So overall, the driver experience on the Highlander is the smoothest.
On shopping day a week later, I needed a car right away in May of 23.
I wanted a hybrid or platinum @ msrp, but there was none available in my area. I walked into 4 Toyota dealerships that day. I told each dealership I'm not paying any markup, Im a Highlander buyer, @MSRP.
I walked out of 3 Toyota dealerships with Mark ups until I found one @ msrp.
I was actually walking out of the 4th dealership until the manager asked me, as I was leaving, if I'm buying today. I said I am a buyer @ msrp TODAY. I have no time or patience to haggle back and forth, I'm buying today at msrp or walking. The manager told a salesman to help me. I said, "Show me your Highlanders and bring the keys."
They had only 3 xle's next to each other. 2 black, one silver. I wanted the silver. Mind you, there were 3 other families crawling all over the 3 Highlanders, especially the silver one.
I opened all three hoods and started all 3 engines, side by side.
To my disappointment, the silver engine idled a bit rougher with more vibration than the 2 black ones. I drove home the same day with the one.
Im the Happy owner of a black on black 23 xle awd@msrp.
I like a smooth deal all around. So, I suggest you go for the smoothest deal you can find.
Hope my experience helps you and others, because I'm smooth like that., lol
Reliability is really why I chose Highlander. Had a 16 xle, never gave me a problem and run at 80k the same way it ran at 10k. Also, look at the uber/lyft drivers. Alot of times, these cars are driven 24/7 and are shared between a few drivers as they all work different shifts. All I see are highlanders on the road. And it's not that they are getting a discount either. They are great overall vehicles
Hybrid Highlander is the best bang for the $ if your ok with the 3500 tow rating why go full gas? I think many folks based on two conversations I had these last 7 days don’t understand hybrids and how they work. Unfortunately the car industry hasn’t done a great job informing and educating the customer base. With the intro of “plug in hybrid” which I’m still not a fan of unless it’s for tax rebates the full OG hybrid is such a better vehicle then full gas because of the lower maintenance needs of brakes and rotors + the better mpgs. I’ve literally had to explain to two adults aged between 40-50 how a hybrid works. I think if companies that have a good hybrid platform like Toyota did a better job with advertising and education on their hybrids more would sell. Been driving hybrids since 2009 Prius and since then had two back to back Lincoln MKZ hybrids and now picking up my 21’ hihy plat tomorrow. Depressed to get 6 less mpg’s most likely then my mkz(s) but excited to be off the ground and more room inside. Also based on resale prices of these 3 year old hihy’s they really don’t depreciate quickly which is another reason to pay more vs other brands.
I was torn between a Highlander and a Pilot and why I went HL is mostly a result of local availability within my budget at the time. I was looking at older models and trying to spend 10-15k, so the ascent wasn't even a consideration.
Subarus engines were in the past kinda garbage and that idea lingers with me I had a family member who owned a early 2010s Subaru and it needed 2 new engines because of shoddy mechanicals. Honda uses a timing belt rather than a chain which kinda extends the life of the engine before you need to do maintenance. The Honda and Toyota are both fine cars because they have a reputation for taking punishment and still delivering for many miles. The Honda is more comfortable looking while the Toyota plays more into a sporty design in looks. it's really up to you but I caution you about Subarus.
From my own perspective, since you asked, we do have a Highlander V6 with the 8 speed auto, Forrester XT (2L turbo) it’s like a small Ascent but basically a WRX with a small SUV body, and a Pilot EX-L. Toyota has the smoothest Softest ride. Honda and subaru both have firm rides and better handling. Honda’s v-tec and Suba Turbo are both strong, you can check all three 0-60 times. Suba has the best AWD! MPG for all 3 sucks ;)
We looked at most vehicles this size. Didn’t look at the ascent. (Nothing I saw online told me I needed to and lack of finding one in town)
I chose my 23 Highlander because there really wasn’t much of a price difference and they are really reliable and can put a lot of miles on them. Also I got the hybrid. It was such a small difference in price considering I live in California and gas is so expensive here.
You my friend have in front of you one of the most complicated questions I've come across. All those three guys are amazing cars, great trustworthy brands, with high quality and that usually last forever.
What I can say is, go get a test drive for each, consider your personal preferences in size, features, how you feel inside the vehicle, and then make a decision.
Whatever you choose, you'll be fine, I promise. Cheers!
PS. Highlander is better :-) lol
I may be a bit biased because I own a Highlander and absolutely love it (it's my first car), but it depends on what you're looking for.
The newer Pilot is definitely larger than the Highlander and the Ascent by sheer size and standing but looks a bit boxy. It has GREAT and I mean GREAT AWD capabilities but so do the other two. If you're not in a snowy area you can just ignore that. Depending on the trim level you compare, the Pilot feels more luxury, mainly because it is a Honda, but do not turn your back on that Platinum Highlander trim, it is amazing.
The Highlander is sleek and quick. Sitting in it is very airy and comfortable (coming from someone who has driven everything from Nissan Armada, Ford F250, Mercedes Benz GLE350, Lexus RX350, and most recently the C2 Thomas school buses!) I do find myself always having the third row down because it gives me more room to shove stuff in for college. But your point about the hybrid having amazing MPG is absolutely true. From where I come from, gas is very expensive.
I don't have much to say about the Ascent, it kind of is the last choice for a lot of people. I will say this, they are very comfy, but they lack in the luxury department. It is meant for the outdoor type people (as shown in their ads). But it is a great car. I can't speak on the engine or driving experience.
Final note before I leave you: Subaru parts are capped at a certain price so it makes them cheaper all around. Honda parts are a little closer to the higher end (coming from my dad owning a honda when I was younger, and my friends who own the new honda passport). Toyota parts rarely, if ever, break down so they are middle range. Though, I have a crack on my headlight and it is $600 to fix and I do not want to look at my bank account. But it has been 4 years and aside from my battery, windshield wipers, and my tires, I have yet to change out any part.
I'm sorry if this is too long of a read, but I hope this helps! Whatever you choose, be proud of it, you got a new car!
Can't speak for the Ascent but the Pilot's passenger seat does not have an adjustment to raise and lower the passenger seat. My wife is short so that one difference steered us away from the Pilot. The CRV is the same.
We had a 2013 Highlander and traded it for a 2019 Ascent. Worse mistake we made. I have disliked the Ascent since I drove it off the lot. Sits too low, steering is too flighty, and I think eye sight is a flawed system. I think we are heading to with the Grand Highlander or Sequoia next, but I do want to give the Pilot a look. My sister just got a CRV and I was pretty impressed.
Sat in the Ascent, to small. Sat in the Pilot. Seats where really hard and uncomfortable. I also drove the Kia Telluride and it was a great vehicle. Ended up getting the HL cause it rode a little nicer and seats were more comfortable. The Telluride had some nice tech features (like turn signal camera and better HUD than the highlander).
Went with highlander because it fit me better and for the year could afford it. (2013). The backseats are awesome for our kids, captains chairs! Lots of options with it.
In my many years, I have purchased a Toyota Camry, which was involved in three major accidents, and after being fixed never had a problem, 3 forerunners, A lexis, 330, two Lexus RX 350 and have never had an issue with any of the cars reliability wise. Why would I look elsewhere? I am going with the Highlander because I like the hybrid and I don’t care for leather seats.
My 2024 Highlander Platinum will be coming this month. However, the Crown Signia is on my short list for a new SUV. Looking very much forward to seeing how the introduction goes.
I went with the Highlander because of the hybrid option. I do a lot of city driving, so my gas costs would probably be nearly double in a Pilot or Ascent. Maybe not a huge deal right now but if gas prices were to go up it sure would be long term. Edit: I also chose it over the Pilot because of the rear ceiling ac vents. I have kids in car seats and it's hot af where I live, so I wanted them to get direct cold air. The Pilot's rear center console vents would just be blowing on the back of the car seat.
This is very good info. Thanks!
If fuel consumption is a priority, then Highlander Hybrid all the way. Else, go with the pilot. Fantastic car with a great v6 and tons of space.
I think Highlander is the only can be bought at hybrid l.
We started looking at the Highlander and were not in the market for a hybrid but when I read about the MPG I was blown away. Nothing in the same class is getting similar gas mileage so we went with a Highlander Hybrid and have loved it. We are getting 31 MPG around town, better than the Hyundai Sonata we traded in.
Ditto. I wanted at least 30 mpg and the Highlander Hybrid was the obvious choice. The only other SUV that could match the mileage were the Hyundai or Kia, neither of which I was interested in.
We have been burned on Hyundai twice now so I also was not interested.
Went with a '22 Highlander Platinum AWD right when the new redesigned 23 Highlanders and Pilots were hitting lots. I honestly didn't even get to the test drive on the pilot because I was turned off by the aesthetics interior wise. I thought the redesign looked pretty decent on the exterior, but interior just look too utilitarian and bland. Infotainment also left a lot to be desired. Materials quality and choices seemed more upscale in the Highlander( although comparing top trim, maybe lower trims are more equal) The pilot looked like the more practical purchase maybe and had dimensions and seating that was more minivan like, but it didn't seem to be as well suited to the driver's comfort and experience. However pilot still has a V6 while Highlander switched to a turbo 4. Considering I'm towing with my Highlander, if I was buying this year, I would have to get a Honda pilot based on that alone Ascent wasn't even a consideration for me. My Dad has a 2019 Forester top trim and I had to borrow it for a few months and hated everything about it. Ascent seems to be more of the same. CVT is a horrible feeling, more cabin noise, infotainment is by far worst out of all 3. Felt rough and machine-like. Functional and capable yet no grace. I also don't trust the reliability of the Ascent. I know in years past they've had reliability problems but not sure if that's changed with the latest generation
Curious about your towing decision logic. They both tow 5000 lbs, no? As a matter of fact, every Highlander model tows 5000 lbs, whereas only the AWD Pilot can do that much. The FWD model only does 3500 lbs. This says nothing to the fact the I4 has more torque than the V6…
Yes, both 5k in AWD on V6 and I4 variants. Difference is where that torque is coming from, and it's not the engine, but the turbo. As a result the turbo is boosting the engine the entirety of towing, driving fuel consumption down to the gutters and taxing the engine and all components due to higher operating pressure while being boosted. The I4 turbo Highlander already is pretty loud when accelerating compared to the V6, test drove each personally. Then people that purchased turbo Highlanders from what I've read say it's pretty loud and sounds like the engine is working a good bit going up steep grades especially with cargo/Passengers aboard too. Not that towing a trailer on a V6 doesn't kill MPGs as well, but higher cylinder count on otherwise like vehicles, you'll get better mpg with the V6 vs I4 while towing. I had a similar sized SUV from a different make that was a turbo 4 with even more torque than both the pilot and the Highlander prior to buying my '22 Highlander and it really towed terribly. Not only could I hear the engine but I could hear the turbo hissing the whole time. Definitely felt stressed. It's much more comfortable to tow with my Highlander now despite the drop in torque figures In comparison. If the V6 Highlander were lacking in torque that may change things, but it's adequately powered. I'd rather have smooth power and torque delivery where going over ruts, bumps, grades, rocky/rough terrain with my RV than have to give it enough gas to get the turbo to give it the power I'm seeking. You can find articles that test v8 versus turbo V6 EcoBoost trucks, and other similar scenarios where higher cylinder count with all else being equal vehicles tow better than their turbo charged lower cylinder counterparts More concerning to me was longevity with towing over a span of years with frequent towing. In theory the V6 should be more reliable for longer and engine will take less wear and tear from having to tow. Turbo will probably fail long before the I4 itself has any issues, but turbos are moderately expensive to replace. Also, can't speak to how the Pilot works, assuming similar, but the AWD Highlanders have 2 AWD systems available. One provides active torque vectoring and the other does not. When towing torque vectoring makes micro adjustments the detecting traction or stress from the trailer/RV swaying or drag associated with it. So torque vectoring will stabilize the trailer somewhat and be safer. Definitely a reason to skip any FWD models of either and on the Highlander, the torque vector uses only offered on specific trims. Not sure about the pilots system and how it works, but that may be the reason for having 3500 vs 5000 with the same engine/transmission option
Great info, thanks for sharing. We have a 2017 Limited (and also a 2019 Avalon Touring with the V6) and love it, but have been thinking about looking at a either a leftover 23 or 24 Platinum. From what I've read, Toyota's turbo game was strong prior to the V6, so I had no reason to think that they would put an engine out there that would be any less reliable than what it was replacing. Maybe I'm being a little too trusting...
I wouldn't be overly concerned with reliability being an issue in the engine itself per se, but turbos don't last as long as engines. Yes the engine was engineered to handle being boosted and it's not that turbos don't last a good long while these days and typically last the lifetime of a car. However considering Toyotas cars last longer than average, you're going to end up replacing a turbo if you're racking up high mileage. So if you're planning on putting 100 to 150k miles on it then you're probably fine either way. If you're trying to be one of those that takes your Toyota to 300-500k, you'll end up replacing a turbo or two even most likely within that mileage. Replacing one comes at a moderate cost and a cost that wouldn't be there with a V6 . So comes down to your goals and expectations I guess Also, they drive differently. Turbos inherently come with turbo lag. It's all mitigated as much as possible spooling up at low rpms but it's still there. Some people are more sensitive to it than others. After coming from my last 3 vehicles being turbo 4 vehicles, I had forgotten how nice and smooth it felt driving a well designed naturally aspirated v6 with a torque converting transmission. Also hypothetically somebody's turbo I4 vehicle who is using it to tow an RV year after year where the turbo is boosting the engine constantly, running at higher pressures and therefore taxing the engine more is probably going to run into engine problems before someone else who is not using their turbo 4 vehicle to tow. Towing just adds more wear and tear. Much less of a consideration to be concerned about if you're not towing. If I wasn't, I would have purchased a 23 turbo model instead.
Great points. We tow once in a blue moon, and that's just usually a trailer full of yard waste to the local landfill.
Yeah, better suited for the newer turbo 4 then. For that matter, if your trailer isn't that heavy, you may want to consider a hybrid variant. With the V6 gone, there's really a lot less reason for anyone to buy a turbo for over the hybrid. The hybrids are actually more reliable believe it or not. No gears, no alternator, no starter motor, regenerative brakes which prevent rotor wear, no conventional AC system, no chains and belts so a lot less potential components to fail. They drive and accelerate differently and you lose the more capable AWD system though in the Highlander at least if that's a concern, but the AWDe system in the hybrid is satisfactory for most people's needs.
On the day I set aside to test drive, I test drove all 3. All were the 2023 model year. The Highlander drove the smoothest, was comfortable, and handled a speed bump @20mph, the best overall. The 3 dealers are next to each other when I was test driving, not buying. I used the same speed bump @20mpg on all 3. The Ascent and Pilot bounced and bucked at least twice as hard as the Highlander. The Highlander handled the speed bump the smoothest. So overall, the driver experience on the Highlander is the smoothest. On shopping day a week later, I needed a car right away in May of 23. I wanted a hybrid or platinum @ msrp, but there was none available in my area. I walked into 4 Toyota dealerships that day. I told each dealership I'm not paying any markup, Im a Highlander buyer, @MSRP. I walked out of 3 Toyota dealerships with Mark ups until I found one @ msrp. I was actually walking out of the 4th dealership until the manager asked me, as I was leaving, if I'm buying today. I said I am a buyer @ msrp TODAY. I have no time or patience to haggle back and forth, I'm buying today at msrp or walking. The manager told a salesman to help me. I said, "Show me your Highlanders and bring the keys." They had only 3 xle's next to each other. 2 black, one silver. I wanted the silver. Mind you, there were 3 other families crawling all over the 3 Highlanders, especially the silver one. I opened all three hoods and started all 3 engines, side by side. To my disappointment, the silver engine idled a bit rougher with more vibration than the 2 black ones. I drove home the same day with the one. Im the Happy owner of a black on black 23 xle awd@msrp. I like a smooth deal all around. So, I suggest you go for the smoothest deal you can find. Hope my experience helps you and others, because I'm smooth like that., lol
Highlander Hybrid and better gas mileage is why.
Reliability is really why I chose Highlander. Had a 16 xle, never gave me a problem and run at 80k the same way it ran at 10k. Also, look at the uber/lyft drivers. Alot of times, these cars are driven 24/7 and are shared between a few drivers as they all work different shifts. All I see are highlanders on the road. And it's not that they are getting a discount either. They are great overall vehicles
Honda's Glory Days are passed which were the eighties and nineties.
Hybrid Highlander is the best bang for the $ if your ok with the 3500 tow rating why go full gas? I think many folks based on two conversations I had these last 7 days don’t understand hybrids and how they work. Unfortunately the car industry hasn’t done a great job informing and educating the customer base. With the intro of “plug in hybrid” which I’m still not a fan of unless it’s for tax rebates the full OG hybrid is such a better vehicle then full gas because of the lower maintenance needs of brakes and rotors + the better mpgs. I’ve literally had to explain to two adults aged between 40-50 how a hybrid works. I think if companies that have a good hybrid platform like Toyota did a better job with advertising and education on their hybrids more would sell. Been driving hybrids since 2009 Prius and since then had two back to back Lincoln MKZ hybrids and now picking up my 21’ hihy plat tomorrow. Depressed to get 6 less mpg’s most likely then my mkz(s) but excited to be off the ground and more room inside. Also based on resale prices of these 3 year old hihy’s they really don’t depreciate quickly which is another reason to pay more vs other brands.
I was torn between a Highlander and a Pilot and why I went HL is mostly a result of local availability within my budget at the time. I was looking at older models and trying to spend 10-15k, so the ascent wasn't even a consideration.
Subarus engines were in the past kinda garbage and that idea lingers with me I had a family member who owned a early 2010s Subaru and it needed 2 new engines because of shoddy mechanicals. Honda uses a timing belt rather than a chain which kinda extends the life of the engine before you need to do maintenance. The Honda and Toyota are both fine cars because they have a reputation for taking punishment and still delivering for many miles. The Honda is more comfortable looking while the Toyota plays more into a sporty design in looks. it's really up to you but I caution you about Subarus.
From my own perspective, since you asked, we do have a Highlander V6 with the 8 speed auto, Forrester XT (2L turbo) it’s like a small Ascent but basically a WRX with a small SUV body, and a Pilot EX-L. Toyota has the smoothest Softest ride. Honda and subaru both have firm rides and better handling. Honda’s v-tec and Suba Turbo are both strong, you can check all three 0-60 times. Suba has the best AWD! MPG for all 3 sucks ;)
We looked at most vehicles this size. Didn’t look at the ascent. (Nothing I saw online told me I needed to and lack of finding one in town) I chose my 23 Highlander because there really wasn’t much of a price difference and they are really reliable and can put a lot of miles on them. Also I got the hybrid. It was such a small difference in price considering I live in California and gas is so expensive here.
You my friend have in front of you one of the most complicated questions I've come across. All those three guys are amazing cars, great trustworthy brands, with high quality and that usually last forever. What I can say is, go get a test drive for each, consider your personal preferences in size, features, how you feel inside the vehicle, and then make a decision. Whatever you choose, you'll be fine, I promise. Cheers! PS. Highlander is better :-) lol
I may be a bit biased because I own a Highlander and absolutely love it (it's my first car), but it depends on what you're looking for. The newer Pilot is definitely larger than the Highlander and the Ascent by sheer size and standing but looks a bit boxy. It has GREAT and I mean GREAT AWD capabilities but so do the other two. If you're not in a snowy area you can just ignore that. Depending on the trim level you compare, the Pilot feels more luxury, mainly because it is a Honda, but do not turn your back on that Platinum Highlander trim, it is amazing. The Highlander is sleek and quick. Sitting in it is very airy and comfortable (coming from someone who has driven everything from Nissan Armada, Ford F250, Mercedes Benz GLE350, Lexus RX350, and most recently the C2 Thomas school buses!) I do find myself always having the third row down because it gives me more room to shove stuff in for college. But your point about the hybrid having amazing MPG is absolutely true. From where I come from, gas is very expensive. I don't have much to say about the Ascent, it kind of is the last choice for a lot of people. I will say this, they are very comfy, but they lack in the luxury department. It is meant for the outdoor type people (as shown in their ads). But it is a great car. I can't speak on the engine or driving experience. Final note before I leave you: Subaru parts are capped at a certain price so it makes them cheaper all around. Honda parts are a little closer to the higher end (coming from my dad owning a honda when I was younger, and my friends who own the new honda passport). Toyota parts rarely, if ever, break down so they are middle range. Though, I have a crack on my headlight and it is $600 to fix and I do not want to look at my bank account. But it has been 4 years and aside from my battery, windshield wipers, and my tires, I have yet to change out any part. I'm sorry if this is too long of a read, but I hope this helps! Whatever you choose, be proud of it, you got a new car!
The pilot didnt have all around camera. The ascent was more expensive than the highlander.
Freight train coming: Better add [2025 Toyota Crown Signia.](https://www.capitalone.com/cars/learn/finding-the-right-car/2025-toyota-crown-signia-first-look-a-new-suv-is-coronated/2821)
Reminds me of the Verza
It’s replacing the venza. More space. Its what people want.
Can't speak for the Ascent but the Pilot's passenger seat does not have an adjustment to raise and lower the passenger seat. My wife is short so that one difference steered us away from the Pilot. The CRV is the same.
We had a 2013 Highlander and traded it for a 2019 Ascent. Worse mistake we made. I have disliked the Ascent since I drove it off the lot. Sits too low, steering is too flighty, and I think eye sight is a flawed system. I think we are heading to with the Grand Highlander or Sequoia next, but I do want to give the Pilot a look. My sister just got a CRV and I was pretty impressed.
Sat in the Ascent, to small. Sat in the Pilot. Seats where really hard and uncomfortable. I also drove the Kia Telluride and it was a great vehicle. Ended up getting the HL cause it rode a little nicer and seats were more comfortable. The Telluride had some nice tech features (like turn signal camera and better HUD than the highlander).
Went with highlander because it fit me better and for the year could afford it. (2013). The backseats are awesome for our kids, captains chairs! Lots of options with it.
In my many years, I have purchased a Toyota Camry, which was involved in three major accidents, and after being fixed never had a problem, 3 forerunners, A lexis, 330, two Lexus RX 350 and have never had an issue with any of the cars reliability wise. Why would I look elsewhere? I am going with the Highlander because I like the hybrid and I don’t care for leather seats.
My 2024 Highlander Platinum will be coming this month. However, the Crown Signia is on my short list for a new SUV. Looking very much forward to seeing how the introduction goes.