Which three-row, midsize crossover has what your family needs in a daily driver, the 2024 Ford Explorer or the 2024 Honda Pilot? Our comparison guide gives you a tour of each SUV, making it easy for you to make the right choice!
Key Takeaways:
- These three-row crossovers offer very competitive starting prices.
- Although the Pilot offers an extra seat, the Explorer delivers maximum comfort, especially in terms of available luxury features.
- When it comes to tech features, the Pilot’s cutting-edge infotainment system and impressive list of standard safety aids give it the advantage.
- The Pilot simply can’t compete with the Explorer’s strong, rugged performance!
What is the Starting Price of the 2024 Ford Explorer?
Both the 2024 Ford Explorer (starting at $36,860) and the 2024 Honda Pilot (starting at $37,090) are competitively priced! And they come standard with a similar list of features, too, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, tri-zone automatic climate control, and driver safety aids like forward collision mitigation.
Is the 2024 Ford Explorer Comfortable?
The roomy Explorer is our first choice for cruising comfort! Every version of this three-row crossover comes standard with niceties like tri-zone automatic climate control and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Compared to the Pilot, the Explorer can be ultra-luxurious. For instance, the Platinum trim model features diamond-pattern leather seating, genuine wood cabin trim, and satin aluminum grille and exterior trim.
Like the Explorer, the Pilot offers roomy comfort and a smooth, quiet ride. It also comes standard with seating for eight — one extra seat compared to the base Explorer. And although these models have similar standard lineups, the Pilot never gets quite as luxurious as the Explorer’s top trim models. For example, while it can match the Explorer’s panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and premium audio, it doesn’t offer the kind of high-end luxury you’ll find in the aforementioned Explorer Platinum.
What Technology is Seen in the 2024 Honda Pilot?
The Pilot has a bit of an edge here. Although the base version of Honda’s midsize SUV doesn’t come standard with the wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you’ll find this smartphone integration technology on the stylish EX-L trim model and up.
While the Explorer awaits a mid-cycle refresh (possibly for 2025), it hasn’t been updated with Ford’s latest infotainment system, SYNC 4, quite yet. However, the Explorer does come standard with the wired versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and it’s easy enough to add a wireless adapter to your system!
Otherwise, the Explorer and Pilot offer a similar array of infotainment features and driver safety aids. For instance, both crossovers come standard with forward-collision and lane-departure mitigation systems. And both crossovers are available with premium audio upgrades, a surround-view camera system, and built-in navigation!
Is the 2024 Ford Explorer Powerful?
Here, the Explorer has a major advantage over the Pilot. Ford’s three-row crossover offers two engine options, both of which are stronger than the Pilot’s only available engine. Lower trim models deliver a strong ride with their 300-horsepower, turbocharged engine. And higher trim models are even more impressive, leaving the Pilot in the dust with their 400-horsepower turbo V6.
The 2024 Explorer powertrain options include:
- Turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 hp, 310 lb-ft)
- Turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
Although the Pilot isn’t nearly as powerful as the Explorer, it provides a smooth, strong ride in its own right. Just like the Explorer, the Pilot is available with all-wheel drive. Add this performance gear to your ride for more safety on slick surfaces. All-wheel drive will also improve your ability to travel off-road trails without getting stuck in the mud!
Every 2024 Pilot features the same powertrain:
- 3.5L V6 (285 hp, 262 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
Should You Choose the 2024 Ford Explorer or Honda Pilot?
In the end, the 2024 Ford Explorer is the best option! Whether you’re shopping for the best possible price, maximum power, or the most luxurious cabin, the Explorer has what your family wants in a three-row crossover SUV.