In common configurations, the Grand Highlander with the 2.4-liter turbo engine typically achieves around 25 mpg combined (about 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway) and roughly 24 mpg combined in AWD form, while the Honda Pilot with the 3.5-liter V6 sits around 23 mpg combined in front-wheel drive and about 21 mpg combined with all-wheel drive. Exact numbers vary by year, trim, and conditions.
EPA fuel economy by powertrain
Below are typical EPA ratings for the most common configurations in recent model years to illustrate the comparison between these two three-row SUVs.
- Grand Highlander, 2.4L turbo, front-wheel drive (FWD): 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway; 25 mpg combined
- Grand Highlander, 2.4L turbo, all-wheel drive (AWD): 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway; 24 mpg combined
Numbers above reflect standard configurations and are intended to show relative performance. Real-world results can differ based on driving style, load, and tire choice.
Honda Pilot MPG by drivetrain
To provide a direct contrast, here are the typical EPA figures for the Pilot's main configuration options:
- Pilot, 3.5L V6, front-wheel drive (FWD): 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway; 23 mpg combined
- Pilot, 3.5L V6, all-wheel drive (AWD): 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway; 21 mpg combined
These figures illustrate how the Pilot trades some city efficiency for consistent highway mileage, while the Grand Highlander’s turbo engine tends to deliver stronger highway economy at the cost of some city efficiency.
What drives the mpg difference
Engine and drivetrain choices
The Grand Highlander’s 2.4L turbo four-cylinder is tuned for higher highway efficiency, which can raise the combined average in FWD configurations. The Pilot’s larger naturally aspirated V6 prioritizes smoothness and torque, which can weigh down city mpg but is competitive on the highway.
Vehicle weight and aerodynamics
The Grand Highlander is a larger, heavier platform than the standard Highlander, and its aerodynamic profile influences highway fuel economy. The Pilot’s shape and weight distribution produce different efficiency characteristics, especially in city driving with frequent stops.
Driving habits, payload, and tire selection all affect mpg. For the most accurate numbers, consult the window sticker for the exact model year and trim you’re considering.
Summary
Across recent model years, the Grand Highlander generally matches or slightly exceeds the Pilot’s combined mpg in comparable turbo-powered configurations, particularly on the highway. In city driving, the Pilot can be more efficient in some trims, while the Grand Highlander may show a higher highway efficiency. For buyers prioritizing highway fuel economy, the Grand Highlander often has a modest edge; for those prioritizing city mpg, the Pilot may perform more efficiently in its base V6 configuration. Always check the specific trim’s EPA numbers for an apples-to-apples comparison.