2025 Ford Explorer Vs Honda Pilot

2025 Ford Explorer vs. Honda Pilot: A Head-to-Head Showdown in the Midsize SUV Arena

The midsize SUV segment is a battleground of practicality, comfort, and technology, with the Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot consistently vying for top spots. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, capable powertrains, and a blend of features that cater to families and adventurers alike.

But as the 2025 model year approaches, both the Explorer and Pilot have undergone significant updates, making their rivalry even more intense. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of these SUVs, helping you determine which one best fits your needs and preferences.

Design & Styling: A Tale of Two Approaches

The 2025 Ford Explorer embraces a bold and rugged aesthetic, featuring a muscular front fascia with a large, imposing grille and sharp, angular lines. Its sculpted hood and flared wheel arches emphasize its commanding presence. The overall design leans towards a more aggressive, athletic stance, reflecting its off-road capabilities.

The Honda Pilot, on the other hand, opts for a more refined and understated design language. Its smooth, flowing lines and rounded edges create a sleek and sophisticated appearance. The front grille is less aggressive, while the overall design exudes a sense of elegance and refinement.

Interior Comfort & Technology: A Focus on Family and Functionality

Both SUVs prioritize interior comfort and practicality, offering ample space for passengers and cargo. The 2025 Ford Explorer boasts a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for seven, though the third row might be a bit cramped for adults. The interior features high-quality materials and a driver-centric cockpit with an intuitive layout.

The Honda Pilot, known for its family-friendly approach, provides a spacious and comfortable interior with ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. Its third row offers more space than the Explorer’s, making it a better choice for families with frequent use of the third row. Both SUVs offer a plethora of technology features, including:

• Infotainment Systems: Both vehicles feature large touchscreen displays with intuitive interfaces, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Explorer’s SYNC 4 system is known for its responsiveness and user-friendly navigation. The Pilot’s infotainment system is equally intuitive and offers a wide range of connectivity features.
• Driver Assistance Features: Both SUVs come standard with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims offer additional features like lane keeping assist, parking assist, and a surround-view camera system.
• Cargo Space: The Ford Explorer offers a generous cargo space with a maximum capacity of over 87 cubic feet, while the Honda Pilot boasts a slightly smaller but still impressive cargo volume of over 83 cubic feet. Both SUVs provide ample space for luggage, groceries, and other necessities.

Performance and Handling: Balancing Power and Efficiency

The 2025 Ford Explorer offers a range of powertrain options, catering to diverse driving needs. The base engine is a 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder, delivering adequate power for daily driving. For those seeking more power, the 3.0L V6 provides a robust performance with a towing capacity of up to 5,600 pounds.

The Honda Pilot, on the other hand, focuses on efficiency with a single 3.5L V6 engine. While not as powerful as the Explorer’s V6, the Pilot’s engine provides ample power for everyday driving and delivers impressive fuel economy. Both SUVs offer smooth handling and a comfortable ride, making them ideal for both city commutes and highway journeys.

Off-Road Capabilities: Exploring the Unpaved Paths

While both SUVs are primarily designed for on-road driving, the Ford Explorer offers a more robust off-road package. The Explorer’s available Terrain Management System provides different drive modes tailored to various terrain conditions, including sand, snow, and mud. It also features a higher ground clearance and optional four-wheel drive with a locking rear differential, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The Honda Pilot, while not as off-road-focused as the Explorer, still offers a decent level of off-road capability. The available all-wheel drive system with intelligent control provides enhanced traction on slippery surfaces. However, its lower ground clearance and lack of dedicated off-road features limit its capabilities on challenging terrain.

Reliability and Safety: A Focus on Peace of Mind

Both the Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot are known for their reliability and safety. The Honda Pilot has consistently ranked high in reliability surveys, earning a reputation for durability and longevity. The Ford Explorer, while not as consistently praised for its reliability, has seen significant improvements in recent years.

In terms of safety, both SUVs excel with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including advanced driver-assistance systems and robust construction. Both vehicles have received top safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA.

Price and Value: Finding the Sweet Spot

The 2025 Ford Explorer starts at a slightly lower price point than the Honda Pilot. However, the Explorer’s higher trim levels can quickly push the price up, especially with optional packages and advanced features. The Honda Pilot, with its focus on value and efficiency, offers a competitive price point across its trim levels.

The Verdict: A Decision Based on Your Priorities

Choosing between the 2025 Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Choose the Ford Explorer if:

• You prioritize a bold and rugged design with strong off-road capabilities.
• You need a spacious and comfortable interior with a driver-centric cockpit.
• You seek a powerful engine with a robust towing capacity.

Choose the Honda Pilot if:

• You value a refined and understated design with a spacious and family-friendly interior.
• You prioritize fuel efficiency and a smooth and comfortable ride.
• You need a vehicle with a spacious third row for frequent use.

Ultimately, both the Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot are excellent midsize SUVs that offer a compelling blend of features and capabilities. Taking a test drive of each vehicle and carefully considering your individual needs will help you make the best decision for your specific requirements.