What To Know
- The Explorer’s turbocharged V6 engine provides a noticeable edge in power and acceleration, making it a better choice for those who prioritize performance.
- The Explorer Hybrid offers a significant fuel economy advantage, making it an attractive option for those who prioritize efficiency.
- Both the Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot prioritize safety, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect you and your passengers.
Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially when you’re considering two popular contenders like the Ford Explorer and the Honda Pilot. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, capable performance, and a range of features to suit different needs. But which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each SUV, helping you make an informed decision.
Performance and Handling: Power and Agility on the Road
The Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot offer distinct driving experiences. The Explorer boasts a powerful engine lineup, including a turbocharged V6 that delivers impressive acceleration and towing capacity. The Pilot, on the other hand, prioritizes fuel efficiency with its V6 engine, providing a smooth and refined ride.
Ford Explorer:
- Engine Options: 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder, 3.0L EcoBoost V6, 3.3L V6 Hybrid
- Horsepower: 300-365 hp
- Torque: 350-380 lb-ft
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,600 lbs
Honda Pilot:
- Engine: 3.5L V6
- Horsepower: 280 hp
- Torque: 262 lb-ft
- Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs
The Explorer’s turbocharged V6 engine provides a noticeable edge in power and acceleration, making it a better choice for those who prioritize performance. However, the Pilot’s V6 delivers a more balanced experience, striking a good compromise between power and fuel efficiency.
Interior Comfort and Space: A Haven for Passengers and Cargo
Both the Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot excel in interior comfort and spaciousness. They offer ample seating for up to eight passengers and generous cargo space for luggage and other belongings.
Ford Explorer:
- Seating Capacity: Up to 8 passengers
- Cargo Space: 18.2 cubic feet (behind third row), 47.9 cubic feet (behind second row), 81.7 cubic feet (all seats folded)
Honda Pilot:
- Seating Capacity: Up to 8 passengers
- Cargo Space: 16.5 cubic feet (behind third row), 46.8 cubic feet (behind second row), 83.9 cubic feet (all seats folded)
The Explorer offers slightly more cargo space overall, while the Pilot provides a more comfortable third-row experience due to its lower floor height. Both vehicles feature high-quality materials and comfortable seats, making them ideal for long road trips.
Technology and Features: Staying Connected and Entertained
The Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot are loaded with modern technology and features to enhance the driving experience. Both offer advanced infotainment systems, driver-assistance features, and a range of comfort and convenience options.
Ford Explorer:
- Infotainment System: SYNC 4 with 10.1-inch touchscreen
- Driver-Assistance Features: Adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking
- Other Features: Heated and ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, wireless charging
Honda Pilot:
- Infotainment System: Honda Sensing with 9-inch touchscreen
- Driver-Assistance Features: Adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking
- Other Features: Heated and ventilated seats, power liftgate, rear entertainment system
The Explorer’s SYNC 4 infotainment system is more intuitive and user-friendly, while the Pilot’s Honda Sensing suite offers a comprehensive set of driver-assistance features. Both vehicles offer a range of comfort and convenience options to suit different needs.
Fuel Efficiency: Balancing Performance and Economy
Fuel efficiency is a key consideration for many SUV buyers. The Ford Explorer offers a hybrid option that delivers impressive fuel economy, while the Honda Pilot prioritizes efficiency with its naturally aspirated V6 engine.
Ford Explorer:
- Fuel Economy (EPA): 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, 24 mpg combined (V6), 27 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, 28 mpg combined (Hybrid)
Honda Pilot:
- Fuel Economy (EPA): 19 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, 22 mpg combined
The Explorer Hybrid offers a significant fuel economy advantage, making it an attractive option for those who prioritize efficiency. However, the Pilot’s V6 engine delivers decent fuel economy without sacrificing power.
Safety: Protecting You and Your Passengers
Both the Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot prioritize safety, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect you and your passengers.
Ford Explorer:
- Safety Features: Automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning
Honda Pilot:
- Safety Features: Automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, road departure mitigation
Both vehicles have earned high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, demonstrating their commitment to safety.
Reliability and Resale Value: Long-Term Ownership Considerations
Reliability and resale value are important factors to consider when purchasing a vehicle. The Honda Pilot has consistently earned a reputation for reliability, while the Ford Explorer has shown improvement in recent years.
Ford Explorer:
- Reliability: J.D. Power reliability ratings have improved in recent years.
- Resale Value: Below average compared to the Honda Pilot.
Honda Pilot:
- Reliability: Consistently ranked high in reliability surveys.
- Resale Value: Above average, known for its strong resale value.
The Honda Pilot‘s reputation for reliability and strong resale value make it a more attractive option for those who prioritize long-term ownership.
The Verdict: Which SUV Wins?
The Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot are both excellent SUVs with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Explorer excels in performance, technology, and cargo space, while the Pilot prioritizes fuel efficiency, reliability, and resale value. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Choose the Ford Explorer if you prioritize:
- Powerful performance
- Advanced technology and features
- Spacious interior and cargo space
Choose the Honda Pilot if you prioritize:
- Fuel efficiency
- Reliability and resale value
- A comfortable and refined driving experience
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot are excellent choices, it’s always beneficial to explore other options in the mid-size SUV segment. Consider vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Subaru Ascent, and Mazda CX-9, each offering unique features and benefits.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: What is the starting price for the Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot?
- Ford Explorer: Starting MSRP of around $36,000.
- Honda Pilot: Starting MSRP of around $38,000.
Q: Which SUV offers better off-road capabilities?
- The Ford Explorer offers a more capable off-road package with a terrain management system and optional all-wheel drive.
Q: Which SUV is better for families?
- Both SUVs are excellent family vehicles, offering spacious interiors, safety features, and a range of family-friendly options. The Honda Pilot’s lower floor height may make it slightly more comfortable for families with young children.
Q: What are the main differences in terms of styling?
- The Ford Explorer has a more aggressive and modern design, while the Honda Pilot offers a more conservative and family-oriented aesthetic.
Q: Which SUV is better for long road trips?
- Both SUVs offer comfortable interiors and a range of features that make them ideal for long road trips. The Ford Explorer’s powerful engine might be preferred for highway driving, while the Honda Pilot’s fuel efficiency could be a more significant factor for those concerned about gas mileage.
