Looking to choose between the 2023 Ford Explorer and the 2023 Honda Pilot? No need to stress about which of these cars is the better SUV for your money! Our experts have the answer you need in our all-encompassing comparison guide.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The Explorer has basically the same gas mileage as the Pilot.
- More power-train options on the Explorer and better overall horsepower.
- Both are reasonably priced; the Explorer is slightly more expensive.
- The Pilot has plenty of room for passengers.
WHICH SUV IS MORE POWERFUL?
The Ford Explorer is one of the most reliable, powerful SUV’s you’ll find out there with its 400-max horsepower at the end of three tiers of powertrains. The ability to upgrade the Explorer from a 300-max horsepower to a 400 max is convincing enough alone of its versatility versus the Pilot. But that paired with how the Explorer passed the 0-60 mph sprint test in just over five seconds, and you have a powerhouse of an SUV. Here are the Explorer’s engine options as listed:
- 300-hp, 2.3-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine
- 318-hp, 3.3-liter, V6 Cylinder Engine
- 400-hp, 3.0-liter, V6 Cylinder Engine
Again, one of the defining advantages of the Explorer is its power. The Pilot only offers one engine option, a 3.5 Liter V6 engine with a max horsepower of 285. And while its 0-60 sec speed test is still impressive, you can see why the Explorer comes out as the winner due to its superior powertrain.
PRICING: WHAT DO YOU VALUE?
The price of the Explorer is going to run you a little bit more than a Pilot, but not by much. Estimated starting prices for the Explorer is around $36,700 while the Pilot is $35,900. For nearly less than a thousand, you’re getting the stronger powertrain and an upgrade in its hauling and trailering abilities.
TRAILERING, HAULING & OFF-ROADING: 2023 FORD EXPLORER
The Explorer comes equipped with a more advanced four-wheel drive system compared to the Pilot, making it more off-road ready as soon as you drive off the lot. This system does a bit better job of converting power to all four of its wheels, making terrain variation less of a challenge. The Explorer also has a higher clearance above ground than the Pilot, which helps with any unexpected obstacles beneath you.
Both SUVs have their versions of off-road models, with the Explorer Timberland and the Pilot TrailSport. The Explorer has a great trailering capacity for an SUV at 5,300 pounds, whereas the Pilot can max its trailing capacity to only 3,500. They both offer the same amount of cargo space with a maximum of 87 cubic feet.
WHICH CAR HAS MORE INTERIOR SPACE?
The Pilot does have the advantage of being the roomier of the two vehicles, but not by too much. The Pilot is three inches in length and width when compared to the Explorer. With the Pilot’s extra space also comes extra leg and head room for passengers, a total of eight people fit in the back of the Pilot while seven fit in the Explorer.
Keep in mind that this does make it a little more difficult to find parking spaces that the Pilot will fit comfortably in. If you find yourself in crowded parking lots or making tight turns often, the Pilot will be a bit more difficult to maneuver. Overall, handling is good on these SUVs. Just keep in mind how much space you’re willing to take up in public and in your garage with your SUV.
WHICH FULL SIZED SUV IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
In 2023, there could not be a better time to get into the SUV market if you’re looking to buy a new one and we suggest you start off with a Ford Explorer. The 2023 Ford Explorer has everything a SUV has to offer for a great all-around powerhouse of an SUV. Both cars share similar functions and have adjacent safety features and entertainment features across their multiple trim levels. The Honda Pilot is a good choice if you’re looking for a little extra room but when matched to the Explorer's power and reliability, you won’t be disappointed when choosing the Ford.