Whether you want to take your family on a trip or need to haul a heavy trailer, there’s nothing quite like a big and powerful SUV. The Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot both come with three rows of seats, space to stretch out, and run on a rugged drivetrain.
Which one is the best fit for you? Five Star Ford Dallas put this 2021 Ford Explorer vs. Honda Pilot comparison together to help drivers in Dallas, Plano, and Richardson, TX, decide.
Ford Explorer vs Honda Pilot: Performance & Capability
The 2021 Ford Explorer offers several dynamic powertrains. The base engine is a 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine that gets up to 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the most powerful option is a 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine that delivers 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
If you’re looking for something that’s both exciting and efficient, look no further than the available hybrid system. It combines an electric motor with a 3.3L V6 engine to get good gas mileage and 318 combined horsepower.
On the flip side, the 2021 Honda Pilot doesn’t give you as much variety or power. It’s available with a 3.5L V6 engine that maxes out at 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
Not only can the Explorer power through tough driving conditions, but it also offers a drivetrain that’s prepared for just about anything. It’s available with Intelligent 4-Wheel Drive (4WD) and a Terrain Management System™. This makes your SUV more adaptable with seven Selectable Drive Modes, including:
- Trail
- Slippery
- Deep Snow/Sand
- Tow/Haul
The Honda Pilot offers an all-wheel drive (AWD) system, but it’s not nearly as versatile. Its Intelligent Traction Management system only offers four modes, so it’s not as well equipped for tough driving conditions.
Ford Explorer vs Honda Pilot: Cargo Space
As a large SUV, the Ford Explorer is designed to carry everything from a few bags to big boxes, luggage, and furniture. It does that by including a big trunk and folding seats in both the second and third rows. You can also hitch a trailer or camper to your SUV. With so much power, you’ll be able to load or haul everything you need.
The Honda Pilot also features a large trunk and folding seats. However, there’s not quite as much space inside. Plus, since it lacks the power found in the Explorer, you won’t be able to tow as much, either.
| Ford Explorer | Honda Pilot | |
| Towing Capacity (when properly equipped) | 5,600 pounds | 5,000 pounds |
| Cargo Room behind first row | 87.8 cubic feet | 83.9 cubic feet |
| Trunk Space | 18.2 cubic feet | 16.5 cubic feet |
Ford Explorer vs Honda Pilot: Technology
To make your drive safer, more convenient, and more fun, the 2021 Ford Explorer is loaded with technology. It even comes with a full safety system that’ll help prevent accidents. Ford Co-Pilot360™ technology comes standard on every trim and includes safety features like BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert.
Meanwhile, the dashboard includes the SYNC® 3 infotainment system. You’ll be able to connect your smartphone, enjoy lots of music, and stay in touch with the following standard features:
- 8-inch touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay®
- Android Auto™
- SiriusXM® Radio
- Enhanced Voice Recognition
The Honda Pilot offers some of the same technology, but very little comes standard. For example, you have to upgrade to access a Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with Cross Traffic Monitor. While a touchscreen, Apple CarPlay®, and Android Auto™ are offered, none of them are even available on the base trim. The standard system only includes Bluetooth® and a 5-inch LCD screen.
Test Drive a Family-Friendly SUV
With more power, space, and standard features, the Ford Explorer is the clear winner. It’s a great fit for drivers, families, and businesses in Dallas, Plano, and Richardson, Texas. Contact Five Star Ford Dallas to learn more about the 2021 Ford Explorer vs. Honda Pilot and take a test drive.
