Towing in Texas: Honda Pilot vs. Ford Explorer

When shopping for a midsize SUV, two names stand out– the Honda Pilot and the Ford Explorer. Both offer plenty of space, strong towing capacity, and great features for families and adventurers alike. But which one is right for you?

The Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer have different strengths. Some drivers need more cargo space, while others care more about horsepower or fuel economy. This guide will compare the two SUVs, covering performance, towing, interior space, technology, and safety. We’ll give you all the information you need to decide which one is right for you.

Power and Performance

A midsize SUV needs enough power for daily driving and weekend adventures. Both the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer come with strong V6 engine options, but they deliver power in different ways.

The Honda Pilot comes with a 3.5L V6 engine that produces 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It has smooth acceleration and steady performance on highways or rough roads. The powertrain includes a 10-speed automatic transmission, which helps with both power and fuel economy.

The Ford Explorer has more engine options, giving buyers more flexibility. The base 2.3L EcoBoost turbo engine produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This makes it a great choice for drivers who want extra power for quick acceleration or towing. The available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 in the higher trims has 400 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful SUVs in its class.

Both SUVs offer all-wheel drive (AWD) for better control on slippery or uneven roads. The Explorer also has rear-wheel drive (RWD) options, which improve towing stability. Meanwhile, the Pilot comes standard with front-wheel drive (FWD) but has the option of AWD on higher trims. For drivers who want fuel economy, the Honda Pilot is the better choice for city driving, while the Explorer’s turbo engine provides stronger performance on highways.

Towing Capacity and Capability

If you plan to tow trailers, boats, or campers, choosing an SUV with the right towing capacity is important. Both the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer can handle towing, but one might be a better fit, depending on your needs.

The Honda Pilot has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with all-wheel drive. This is great for towing small trailers, jet skis, or lightweight campers. The front-wheel drive models have a lower limit of 3,500 pounds, so AWD is the better choice for heavier loads.

The Ford Explorer has a higher towing capacity, maxing out at 5,600 pounds with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine. Even the base 2.3L EcoBoost turbo engine can tow 5,300 pounds, which is more than the Pilot’s AWD model. The RWD layout of the Explorer also improves towing stability, making it a good option for longer trips or heavier trailers.

Interior Space and Comfort

A good midsize SUV should have plenty of room for passengers and cargo. Both the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer offer three-row seating, making them great choices for families. The Honda Pilot is known for its spacious interior. It has 152.9 cubic feet of passenger space, giving plenty of legroom and headroom for all three rows. It also has up to 111.8 cubic feet of cargo space, with the second and third rows folded down. This makes it one of the best SUVs for carrying luggage, sports gear, or groceries.

The Ford Explorer is slightly smaller inside but still roomy. It has 152.7 cubic feet of passenger space, which is just a little less than the Pilot. The Explorer’s cargo space is 87.8 cubic feet with the seats folded, which is less than the Pilot but still enough for most families.

Both SUVs offer comfortable front seats with available heating and ventilation. The third row in the Pilot is slightly more spacious, making it a better option for families who regularly use all three rows. But the Explorer’s design makes it easier to access the back row, which can be helpful for families with young kids.

Technology and Safety Features

Modern midsize SUVs come packed with technology, and both the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer offer great features for entertainment, navigation, and driver assistance.

The Honda Pilot comes with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with available wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offer a Bose premium sound system for music lovers. The Explorer has a slightly larger 10.1-inch touchscreen available in higher trims, plus an easy-to-use interface. Both SUVs come with multiple USB ports and wireless charging options to keep everyone connected.

For safety, both SUVs include advanced driver-assist features. The Honda Pilot comes with Honda Sensing, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking. The Ford Explorer has similar features to the Ford Co-Pilot360, which includes blind-spot information systems, automatic emergency braking, and lane-centering assist.

Both SUVs make safety a priority, and choosing between them comes down to personal preference. If you want a larger touchscreen and a slightly more advanced infotainment system, the Explorer has the edge. If you prefer a well-rounded, easy-to-use tech setup, the Pilot is a great choice.

Fuel Economy and Daily Driving

The Honda Pilot delivers an estimated 19 MPG city / 27 MPG highway with FWD. The AWD version is slightly lower at 19 MPG city / 25 MPG highway. This makes it a solid choice for families who want a balance of performance and efficiency.

The Ford Explorer has several different MPG ratings depending on the engine. The 2.3L EcoBoost turbo engine gets 21 MPG city / 28 MPG highway, making it more fuel-efficient than the Pilot. The more powerful 3.0L EcoBoost V6 has slightly lower numbers at 18 MPG city / 26 MPG highway, but it still competes well with the Pilot.

For drivers who want the best fuel economy, the Explorer’s base engine is the better choice. However, if you prioritize smooth performance and don’t mind a small difference in MPG, the Pilot is still a great option for everyday driving.

Choosing the Right SUV for You

Both the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer are excellent three-row SUVs, but the best choice depends on your needs.

The Honda Pilot is ideal for families who need more cargo space and a comfortable third row. It also has incredibly smooth handling and a strong V6 engine, making it a reliable daily driver. If you frequently travel with passengers and need extra room for luggage or sports gear, the Pilot is a great fit.

The Ford Explorer is better for drivers who want more horsepower and a higher towing capacity. Its EcoBoost turbo engine options deliver strong performance, and its RWD design improves stability when towing. If you need a family-friendly SUV that also works well for road trips and hauling trailers, the Explorer is a solid choice. The best way to decide is to take a test drive. Sitting behind the wheel, feeling the ride, and testing the infotainment system can help you make the right choice.

Find Your Perfect Midsize SUV From a Northside Auto Group Dealership

At Northside Auto Group, our team is here to help you compare the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer side by side so you can find the SUV that fits your needs. We also offer great financing options, warranty coverage, and access to maintenance experts to keep your car in top shape. Whether you’re looking for a new SUV or want to schedule a test drive, we’re here to help. Visit Northside Auto Group today and find the perfect midsize SUV for you.