Battle of the Family SUVs: The Chevy Tahoe vs. the Honda Pilot
If you’re shopping for a new SUV for your family, you have to ask yourself some important questions before your official purchase. Looks matter, as well as size, comfort, and power. There is so much variety available in the SUV market, with two of the most popular and established brands being the Chevrolet Tahoe and the Honda Pilot. Both are viable options, but which one best suits your needs?
2020 Chevrolet Tahoe
Starting price: $49,000
The 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe is a monstrous SUV. It can comfortably seat nine people and its towing capability also contributes to its versatility. When properly equipped, this SUV can haul up to 8,600 pounds. The Tahoe’s handsome styling makes it more appealing and grand. Not much as changed for 2020 though we are excited about the introduction of the fifth-generation 2021 Tahoe.
When it comes to power, the standard 2020 Tahoe is sourced by a 355-horsepower 5.3-liter V8 engine. For more vigor, you can opt for the version with a 420-horsepower combined with a 10-speed automatic transmission. While the available power and speed are of higher quality, the engine doesn’t feel as responsive as it should. It’s also not very fuel-efficient with an overall 16 mpg.
Technology options help the Tahoe earn high marks. The available advanced safety and driver-assist features are great, but unfortunately, they don’t come standard. We also like how user-friendly the infotainment features are.
2020 Honda Pilot
Starting price: $31,650
Compared to the Tahoe, the 2020 Honda Pilot isn’t that thrilling of a drive. What makes the Pilot attractive though is its reliability factor. Like other well-known Hondas, the Pilot can last for 200,000 miles or more with relatively low maintenance costs. There aren’t any big changes for the 2020 model except for the new top-of-the-line Black Editon trim.
The Pilot has a slightly higher fuel efficiency rating than its competitors like the Tahoe. It’s not the most impressive, but up to 20 mpg isn’t horrible. This SUV offers comfort, which doesn’t comprise its overall performance. It can easily seat eight in its spacious cabin, and the 3.5-liter V6 engine makes for a smooth ride.
Forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking safety features come standard on the 2020 Pilot except for on the base model. Its in-car electronic features are easy to use; every trim but the base one comes with a touchscreen. There is also a great rear entertainment system available on the higher tier models.
The final verdict
The Chevy Tahoe and the Honda Pilot are large, suitable SUVs that are designed to carry a big brood. As far as this battle goes, however, the Pilot is the winner because of its value and expected reliability. The Tahoe has many notable frills but with its higher starting price, the available add ons can get really pricey. Driver satisfaction is also higher for the Pilot.
The Pilot is an all-around winner because of its reliability, predictability, and space. Honestly, though, newer SUV innovations like the Kia Telluride are starting to gain on the old reliables.
