2026 Ford Explorer vs 2026 Honda Pilot
Comparing the New Ford Explorer to the Honda Pilot
At Northgate Ford, we compare new SUVs so your crew doesn't have to. We want active families to find the right three-row SUV that checks all the boxes. That's why we've put together a comprehensive SUV comparison detailing how the 2026 Ford Explorer stacks up against the Honda Pilot. After comparing interior space, technology, and performance, you'll be able to picture your family's new adventure in the 2026 Ford Explorer.
Vehicle Comparison
| 2026 Ford Explorer | 2026 Honda Pilot | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Power | 300 hp | 285 hp |
| Engine Torque | 310 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Engine Configuration | Turbocharged I-4 | V6 |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Length | 198.7 in. | 199.9 in. |
| Seating Capacity | 7 | 8 |
Interior Space
The SUVs are comparable in cargo space, as the Ford Explorer has a max cargo volume of 86 cubic feet. The Honda Pilot offers 87 cubic feet. Parents prefer traveling in the Ford Explorer, partly due to the 43 inches of generous front-row legroom. That's an extra two inches compared to the Honda Pilot. Exclusive PowerFold® third-row seats are available for the new Ford Explorer.
Both SUVs offer second-row captain's chairs. The Honda Pilot seats up to eight. The Ford Explorer offers seating for up to seven and more individualized comfort. A six-passenger Ford Explorer features comfortable captain's chairs.
Interior Amenities
When shopping for a new SUV, cabin comforts and family-friendly features are just as important as interior space. The new Ford Explorer has all of the amenities you seek - and then some. There can be either 10 or 14 speakers for the Bang & Olufsen® Sound System in the Ford Explorer. Amplify your listening experience on every family road trip in a new Ford Explorer. The available Bose® Premium Sound System in the Honda Pilot only offers 12 speakers.
The Ford Explorer allows you to customize your comfort zone with the choice of durable cloth seats or luxurious multicontour massaging leather-trimmed seats. Set the mood and personalize the lighting color inside your Ford Explorer with ambient lighting. Heated, ventilated, and massaging seats are available for the new Ford Explorer, and natural light can enter the SUV's cabin through a panoramic fixed glass roof. Notable interior amenities in the Honda Pilot include leather-trimmed seats, a panoramic moonroof, and ventilated front seats.
Performance and Capability
Choose the Ford Explorer for an SUV with superior performance. The V6 engine powering the Honda Pilot fails to reach 300 horsepower. Performance outputs for the Honda Pilot are 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. The Ford Explorer offers two available EcoBoost® engines to deliver the power you need. A new Ford Explorer with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost® turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 300 standard horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. That's an additional 15 horsepower and 48 pound-feet of torque. Prefer a performance SUV? Choose a Ford Explorer with the 3.0-liter EcoBoost® turbocharged V6 engine, which unleashes 385 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque on the exhilarating ST model.
Intelligent 4WD is yet another reason to choose the Ford Explorer. Intelligent four-wheel drive is paired with the Terrain Management™ system featuring up to six drive modes. These allow you to prioritize fuel economy, enjoy a sporty feel, or conquer challenging terrain with your Ford Explorer. The Honda Pilot counters with i-VTM4® AWD. Each SUV has a 5,000-pound towing capacity. The Pilot TrailSport and Explorer Tremor are the off-road specialists with all-terrain tires. What sets the Ford Explorer Tremor apart is the exclusive off-road auxiliary lights.
Technology
Connectivity and family entertainment are important. The Ford Explorer delivers with the debut of the Ford Digital Experience. Everything you love about your digital life comes on the road with you. You can access Google Assistant and Google Maps in your Ford Explorer. Google Play apps are onboard, and you receive curated content where you need it via the customizable 13.2-inch center touchscreen featuring crisp graphics. While the Pilot also includes Google built-in features, the Honda SUV has a smaller 12.3-inch color touchscreen. You can enjoy gaming and karaoke in the Ford Explorer, which offers a Ford Connectivity Package with Wi-Fi. Both SUVs feature wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility.
The Ford Explorer offers exclusive hands-free driving via BlueCruise. There's no such feature for the Honda Pilot. Both SUVs include a Blind Spot Information System. The Ford Explorer is unique with its BLIS® providing Trailer Coverage. Ford Co-Pilot360® driver-assist technologies in the Explorer counter Honda Sensing® features in the Pilot.
Test Drive a New 2026 Ford Explorer at Northgate Ford
With significant victory points in performance and technology, the 2026 Ford Explorer proves to be a cut above the Honda Pilot. Get seated in a new Explorer at our Ford dealership in Cincinnati, OH, and bring your crew along for a test drive. Contact us to learn more about the family features within the new 2026 Ford Explorer models for sale at Northgate Ford.
* Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, license, or other fees required by law, lending institutions, and/or lessors. Price displays show where a $398 Documentation Fee and a $50 Plate Convenience Fee are included.
** Listed APR, down payment, payments, incentives and other terms are estimates for example purposes only. The payment information provided here is not a commitment by any organization to provide credit, leases or other programs. Some customers may not qualify for listed programs.
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Northgate Ford
8940 Colerain Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45251
- Sales: (513) 960-6205
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