2026 Ford Explorer vs. Honda Pilot
| 2026 Ford Explorer | 2026 Honda Pilot | |
|---|---|---|
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive / All-wheel drive available | Front-wheel drive / All-wheel drive available |
| Engine power | 300 hp @ 5,500 rpm | 285 hp @ 6,100 rpm |
| Engine torque | 310 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm | 262 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm |
| Engine displacement | 2.3 l | 3.5 l |
| Engine configuration | Turbocharged Inline 4 | V6 |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| City/Hwy/Combined MPG | 20 / 27 / 23 MPG | 19 / 27 / 22 MPG |
Comparison: 2026 Ford Explorer vs. Honda Pilot
Shopping for a three-row SUV involves more than counting seats. The 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Honda Pilot offer room for families, available all-wheel traction, and towing capacity for a small camper or boat. Their differences become more noticeable on the road. At Victory Ford in Dyersville, IA, the Ford Explorer deserves a closer look for its stronger engines, driving technology, and trim selection.
Engines and Driving Performance
The standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged engine in the 2026 Ford Explorer produces 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The 2026 Honda Pilot uses a 3.5-liter V6 with 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Both have 10-speed automatic transmissions, although the Ford Explorer has a 48 pound-feet torque advantage.
Ford also provides a performance option Honda cannot match. The 2026 Ford Explorer ST has a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 rated at 385 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, plus sport-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes. That combination adds acceleration for merging onto Highway 20 or passing slower traffic outside Farley, IA.
Fuel Economy, Towing, and Four-Wheel Drive
The Ford Explorer with rear-wheel drive (4WD) earns about 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The front-wheel-drive (FWD) Honda Pilot rates 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Drivers commuting from Manchester, IA, will value the Ford advantage on long stretches of highway. Fuel economy varies by configuration.
Both SUVs can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Ford Explorer includes a Class III Trailer Tow Package and offers Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive with selectable drive modes. These settings help on trips involving trailers or on winter roads around Edgewood, IA. The Honda Pilot requires all-wheel drive (AWD) for its 5,000-pound maximum; front-wheel-drive versions are rated for 3,500 pounds.
Passenger Comfort and Cargo Space
The Ford Explorer seats six or seven passengers depending on its second-row configuration. Available captain's chairs create a passage to the third row, and select trims include power-folding third-row seats. Heated seating, tri-zone climate control, and an available panoramic glass roof add comfort on long drives.
The Honda Pilot seats seven or eight and has more cargo room: at least 111.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, compared with 85.8 cubic feet in the Ford Explorer. The Ford Explorer still accommodates groceries, sports equipment, or luggage for a weekend away from Earlville, IA. Families regularly transporting eight people may favor the Honda Pilot, but the Ford Explorer has a broader engine selection.
Infotainment and Driver Assistance
Every Ford Explorer includes a 13.2-inch center touchscreen with Ford Digital Experience, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. The Honda Pilot also has wireless smartphone integration and Google built in, displayed on a smaller 12.3-inch touchscreen. The Ford Explorer features a 12.3-inch digital instrument display.
Both SUVs include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and collision-mitigation technology. The Ford Explorer distinguishes itself with available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving on compatible roads. BlueCruise requires driver attention and an active service plan. On suitable highways beyond Delhi, IA, that capability adds an option the Honda Pilot does not provide.
More Choices for Iowa Roads
The Ford Explorer Tremor adds all-terrain tires, underbody protection, an off-road-tuned suspension, and a Torsen limited-slip rear axle. The Honda Pilot TrailSport also has off-road equipment, including all-terrain tires and a tuned suspension. Ford shoppers can choose from the rugged Ford Explorer Tremor, the performance-focused Ford Explorer ST, and the comfort-oriented Ford Explorer Platinum.
Test Drive a 2026 Ford Explorer at Victory Ford
The Honda Pilot suits families needing eight seats or maximum cargo volume. The Ford Explorer answers with greater standard engine output, a more powerful available V6, better two-wheel-drive highway fuel economy, and available hands-free driving technology.
Explore the new Ford Explorer lineup today at Victory Ford. Browse our new inventory, discuss financing and leasing, and schedule a test drive to find the configuration that fits your driving habits and lifestyle.
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