Toyota 4Runner vs Honda Pilot

The 4Runner Versus the Pilot: Camping Versus "Glamping"

The Toyota 4Runner vs. Honda Pilot battle comes down to what you need these SUVs to do for you. Irwin Toyota in Laconia, NH, wants you to make an informed decision on the best SUV for your family.  

While at the onset, the differences in these two SUVs appear to be stark. They come from the same SUV class and are arguably the top two most trusted carmakers globally. The differences between the 4Runner and the Pilot are noticeable but comparable, especially when shopping for the best possible three-row SUV for you and yours.

Toyota 4Runner vs Honda Pilot: Exterior Design

Even though the Toyota 4Runner and Honda Pilot technically compete in the same midsize SUV class, the two have somewhat different purposes. The exterior of the 4WD 4Runner is a clue to its prowess off-road. The design of the 4Runner is rugged and boxy with stark edges like a truck, while the Honda Pilot's design is softer, more rounded, and almost like a minivan.

The AWD Pilot features more width and length than the four-door 4Runner, but the 4Runner is taller with more ground clearance. Judging by the exterior design alone, it's easy to see that drivers who need a more rugged vehicle with off-road ability will likely prefer the 4Runner.

Toyota 4Runner vs Honda Pilot: Interior Amenities

The interior of these four-door midsize SUVs very much reflects the exterior. The Honda Pilot is similar to a minivan with a roomy, airy cabin filled with soft-touch materials. The 4Runner has a more minimalistic interior with rugged materials.

Both SUVs have a lot of cargo space, but the Pilot is more behind the third row than the 4Runner. The 4Runner has a third-row option but feels roomier when you only have two rows.

In terms of handling, the 4Runner rides and handles like a truck thanks to its body on frame construction. The Pilot feels and rides more like a car or minivan with its flexible unibody construction.

Toyota 4Runner vs Honda Pilot: Capability Matters

In terms of capability, the Toyota 4Runner offers the more powerful engine with a 4.0-liter V6 making 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. The higher torque number means that the 4Runner can better transmit power to the wheels vs. the Honda Pilot.

The Pilot has a 3.6-liter engine that makes slightly better horsepower, and it can be equipped to tow as much as the 4Runner.

Ultimately, the 4Runner is perfect for the outdoors and off-road adventures with its truck-like styling and mechanicals. The Pilot is more of a city SUV for big families. If you need a rugged, ready for anything SUV, then the Toyota 4Runner fits the bill better than most of its competitors.

Only the Best at Irwin Toyota

You can learn more about the new Toyota 4Runner when visiting our showroom at Irwin Toyota in Laconia, NH. Our goal is 100% credit approval and no price gimmicks.

We take pride in our knowledgeable product specialists who will give you everything you need to make an informed decision on a new or used vehicle. Visit us today to find your next Toyota!