2024 Toyota Sienna vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more rugged and substantial appearance. Its upright grille and boxier styling not only made it look bigger but also increased its dimensions, being 3.4 inches longer, up to 1.5 inches wider, and 0.8 inches taller than its predecessor. These changes complemented the all-terrain-capable TrailSport model, which included off-road enhancements like a one-inch taller ride height, unique 18-inch wheels, chunky all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates. The interior took a more conventional styling route, maintaining attractiveness and functionality, with materials quality meeting elevated class standards. Overall, the new Pilot emphasized function over form, offering a tidy and utilitarian aesthetic.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna, available in multiple trim levels, maintained a distinctive look with sleek front and rear fascias and vibrant color options like deep blue, red, or green. LED lighting was standard, with upper trims featuring Bi-LED projector headlamps. The XSE trim, considered the "sporty" option, included a black metallic mesh front grille, black heated side mirrors, and 20-inch dark wheels. The Woodland Edition offered off-road readiness with roof rails, a tow hitch, and increased ground clearance. The interior featured a horizontal design with a fixed center console, satin accents, and easy-to-reach cup holders and shifter. While not luxurious, the interior was practical for family use, with upper trims offering a built-in vacuum cleaner.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all models and standard on the Elite and TrailSport trims. The Pilot offered quick initial acceleration and adequate power, with a soft brake pedal for smooth stops. It cornered well for a three-row SUV, prioritizing comfort over sporty driving. The TrailSport model added an inch of ground clearance and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities without sacrificing on-road comfort.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, producing a total of 245 horsepower. All-wheel drive models included an additional electric motor for the rear wheels. While the Sienna offered a smooth ride, it felt sluggish off the line, with the CVT contributing to a less engaging driving experience. The minivan excelled in town driving, with light and accurate steering and excellent visibility. However, those seeking more driving pleasure might consider alternatives like the Honda Odyssey or Kia Carnival, which offered stronger V6 engines.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional compared to other new Honda models, featuring a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level trims included a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The interior offered logical placement of controls, ample storage options, and clever features like a stowable second-row center seat. The second row provided abundant space for adults, while the third row was less inviting but suitable for short trips. Cargo space was generous, with a maximum capacity of 114.3 cubic feet.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna offered practical interior features, including a lower storage pass-through and multiple cupholders. The second-row captain’s chairs provided up to 40 inches of legroom, with an ottoman for upper trims. However, the seats couldn't be removed, limiting maximum cargo space. The third row was accessible and offered ample legroom when the second row was adjusted. The Sienna featured tri-zone climate control, with an additional zone for the front passenger in the XSE trim. The rear liftgate revealed 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 101 cubes with the second row folded.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's EX-L trim and above offered a larger infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. Higher trims included a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and a fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was functional, with quick responses and a logical layout. Additional features included Honda's CabinTalk, a navigation system, Bose premium audio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna retained Toyota’s older infotainment technology, featuring a nine-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the system included physical buttons for common menus, the backup camera's grainy view was a drawback. The Sienna offered a standard Wi-Fi hotspot, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an optional 12-speaker JBL stereo system. USB ports were plentiful, and a 1500-watt inverter with a 120-volt outlet was available. Optional features included a rear-seat entertainment system and a head-up display.

The 2023 Honda Pilot had not yet been rated by the NHTSA, but Honda expected top scores. It received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, traffic-jam assist, blind-spot monitor, adaptive cruise control, and more. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking and parking sensors. The TrailSport and Elite trims included surround-view and multi-view camera systems.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna came standard with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, including lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, road sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. The Sienna received four out of five stars from the NHTSA for frontal crash and rollover protection and five stars for side crash protection. The IIHS rated it "Good" in crashworthiness but "Average" in front crash prevention. The Sienna included numerous airbags and reminders for rear passengers and cargo.