Several midsize, three-row SUVs offer seating for seven or eight, ample cargo space, and family-friendly features that rivals the Honda Pilot. Notable contenders include the Toyota Highlander (and its larger Grand Highlander), Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Ford Explorer, and Nissan Pathfinder.
As buyers compare these models, they weigh factors such as interior quality, powertrains, efficiency, technology, safety features, and price. This article surveys the field to identify the closest matches to the Pilot and highlight how each stacks up on key traits.
Popular rivals in the midsize three-row segment
These models sit in the same class and are frequently cross-shopped with the Pilot, offering similar seating, cargo capacity, and versatile interiors with different strengths in powertrains, ride, and features.
- Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander — strong resale value, a smooth V6 and a capable hybrid option on the Highlander family, plus generous seat comfort.
- Hyundai Palisade — exceptionally spacious interior, high feature content, and a comfortable ride for families.
- Kia Telluride — widely praised for its upscale interior, long list of standard features, and strong value proposition.
- Ford Explorer — a broad engine lineup, including a turbo-four and a more powerful V6, with flexible seating and cargo options.
- Nissan Pathfinder — practical three-row arrangement, good technology package, and strong baseline V6 performance.
- Chevrolet Traverse — roomy third row and substantial cargo space, with competitive V6 power.
- Volkswagen Atlas — large interior, easy access to the third row, and user-friendly tech, though refinement varies by model year.
Overall, these rivals share core strengths with the Pilot—versatility, space, and family-friendly features—while distinguishing themselves in areas such as efficiency, interior quality, and technology packages.
Key factors to compare when shopping
Before diving into model-by-model comparisons, buyers should weigh the primary considerations that often influence a decision between the Pilot and its peers.
Engine options and performance
Most rivals offer a mix of engines, with Toyota and Honda typically offering V6 options, and Hyundai/Kia models leaning toward V6 or turbocharged four-cylinder power. The Toyota Highlander family stands out for its efficient hybrid option, available on both the standard Highlander and the larger Grand Highlander. The Ford Explorer and VW Atlas offer turbo four- and V6 choices. There is no plug-in hybrid variant of the current Pilot or the other mainstream three-row rivals, though some offer strong highway and towing performance.
Interior space and practicality
Across the field, interior volume and third-row practicality vary. The Palisade and Telluride are praised for their upscale cabins and roomy second and third rows, while the Pilot emphasizes balanced seating and generous overall cargo capacity. The Atlas and Traverse also focus on maximizing cargo with versatile folding seats, and the Grand Highlander adds extra cargo space and passenger comfort thanks to its extended footprint.
Technology, safety and warranties
Technology and safety suites vary by trim. Most offer modern infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, multiple USB ports, and driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Kia and Hyundai have historically offered longer powertrain warranties, while Toyota emphasizes reliability and resale value. Warranty differences can influence long-term ownership costs and should be weighed alongside initial price and fuel economy.
Summary
The Honda Pilot sits in a crowded field of capable three-row midsize SUVs. If you value luxury-like interior space and value, the Palisade or Telluride are strong contenders. For efficiency and strong resale, the Highlander/Grand Highlander is compelling, especially if a hybrid is appealing. If you want a broad engine lineup and robust towing, the Explorer offers flexibility, while the Pathfinder provides practical, user-friendly comfort. Buyers should test-drive a range of models and compare incentives and total ownership costs to determine which SUV best matches their needs.