Midsize SUVs have carved a distinct niche in the automotive world, primarily because these vehicles strike a perfect balance of space, comfort, and off road prowess making them highly practical and versatile. This segment is also quite contested as automakers compete to outdo one another with their respective models. One of the most common comparisons is between the Ford Explorer and the Honda Pilot. Both these vehicles are highly sought after in the midsize SUV category and offer unique quirks and features. This blog delves into how the Honda Pilot and the Ford Explorer measure against each other in terms of performance, interior space, technology, safety, and overall value.
The solid 3.5L V6 gives a sound performance with plenty of power for both usual driving and light towing. The fully refined 10-speed automatic transmission makes the gear changes go quite smoothly while allowing you to ride with ease. The All-Wheel-Drive system serves to improve traction in slippery conditions, making this an excellent choice for those families wanting to enjoy weekend off-road adventures.
Engine Options:
The Ford Explorer offers more engine variety, catering to a broader spectrum of driving needs. While the base 2.3L turbocharged engine is more potent than the Pilot’s V6 300 horsepower base model, the twin-turbo V6 in the Explorer ST is more performance-oriented. A hybrid variant is also offered in the Explorer, which is absent from the Pilot’s offerings for the fuel-conscious buyer.
The Ford Explorer for its engine variety and slightly better towing capacity has an edge over the Pilot. However, if you’re after simplicity and reliability, the Honda Pilot’s single V6 option won’t disappoint.
The Pilot offers a three-row seating capacity that can comfortably fit eight people. There is also an ample cargo capacity of 18.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 87 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. Inside the Pilot has exclusive materials and soft-touch surfaces throughout the cabin
While the Ford Explorer is certainly adequate for cargo space and third-row room, it does not compete well with the Honda Pilot with regards to a more comfortable interior, particularly third-row legroom. It offers a cargo capacity of 16.3 feet behind the third row and 85 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded and is well suited for 7 passengers.
The Honda Pilot stands out for its commodious third-row space compared to the Explorer and in general is more comfortable for big families.
The Honda Pilot’s infotainment also has a usable feel to it, but the standard screen size is 7.0 inches, while higher trims feature 9.0-inch screens. It boasts newer connectivity options with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless charging only comes with the 12.0-inch touchscreen The Pilot is available with a full suite of Honda Sensing safety features like advanced features, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistant, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking.
The Ford Explorer has a slightly larger available infotainment screen on higher trims, mounted vertically to give it a neat tablet-like appearance. It has a 13.2-inch touchscreen with 5G data and direct audio streaming from Google and other apps. It also features an impressive Bang & Olufsen sound system and also offers rear-seat entertainment. Higher trim levels come with advanced safety features like the Ford Co-Pilot 360 which includes adaptive cruise control, a lane-keeping system, and blind spot monitoring and helps navigate hills. Base models don’t have it as a standard feature, so drivers have to get a more expensive model for full driver assistance features.
The Honda Pilot offers standard driver-assistance technology and a more intuitive infotainment system.
The Pilot is highly rated by both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The Driver Assistance is offered on all trims as an inclusion in its Honda Sensing safety suite, not even the base model is sold without advanced safety features
The Explorer is great in all other fields but lower in a few subcategories than in the Pilot. While available on most trims, the Ford Co-Pilot360 isn’t standard at all. It left some lower trims crippled with fewer safety features than their respective markets had expected.
While the two vehicles have fared well in safety tests, the Honda Pilot takes the prize due to its full safety suite being standard equipment. Explorer requires buyers to move up the trim ladder before getting all of its safety features.
The Pilot’s base model costs around $41,000 whereas the top of the line variant is around $56,000. The Honda Pilot offers great value to families who have to focus on space, safety, and reliability. Even at its lower trims, the model gives good value, and at the top trim lines, the value just gets indulged without hiking prices beyond too much reason.
The base model of the Ford Explorer costs pretty much the same as the Pilot which is around $41000 and the top variant has a price tag of $57000can add up fast if adding on any other features or upgraded engines. However, the Explorer has much more variability in terms of performance and hybrid options appealing to those who prefer more eco-friendliness and fuel efficiency.
Although both cars are in the same price range, the Honda Pilot gets the edge for offering more features even in the base models at a lower price.
If you prioritize interior space, comfort, safety, and value then the Honda Pilot is more suitable. It is ideal for large families as it can fit passengers comfortably in every seat with a spacious third row, has standard safety features, and a smooth ride.
For greater performance, go for the Ford Explorer because of its twin-turbo V6 and a hybrid option. It’s an adaptable SUV that will suit quite adventurous driving styles, with adequate cargo space and technology.
Thus, the pick between the Honda Pilot and the Ford Explorer narrows down to what you need. If you want maximum comfort in everyday family driving, then the Honda Pilot is a better option; on the other hand, if you are looking for a little change of flavor with performance, then the Ford Explorer takes the edge.
The detailed comparison of the specs, features, and performance of both cars gives you a better insight into what is more suitable according to your style and preference. The next step is to get the car that aligns best with your priorities. For this SAT Japan offers a diverse inventory of cars that you can choose from. As a global exporter of Japanese cars, SAT Japan is a renowned car dealing platform and a haven for car enthusiasts. Moreover, our expert team at SAT Japan, through tailored guidance, helps you make an informed decision every step of the way to ensure you get your ideal car. You can simply browse our website to explore further options and get in touch with our team to find your ideal car as seamlessly as possible.
The Kia Sportage has become a popular choice in the crossover SUV segment capturing a significant market share. With an overhaul in 2023, the Sportage got a modern futuristic design which continues for 2025. The 2025 Kia Sportage has been given a few refinements in the design and features for a better driver experience. This […]
The 2025 Ford Explorer has been a popular mid-sized SUV for quite a while now with its spacious three-row seating capacity making it a favorite among families. For 2025, the Explorer has been overhauled from the inside out to enhance the driver experience. From a fresh design to stronger power and the latest technology in […]
In compact SUVs, debates are aplenty in terms of supremacy. The big two would have to be the Nissan Rogue and then the Toyota RAV4. Both of them happen to have a great reputation in terms of strength, reliability, excellent fuel economy, generous interior space, and significantly more impressive safety features. Whether to commute daily […]
