Are you shopping for a midsize crossover SUV with three rows that offers versatility, a comfortable interior, and advanced driver-assistance technology, and can handle everything from school drop-off to road trips to transporting coworkers to lunch or meetings?
Well, check out the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Honda Pilot, two midsize crossover models with roomy interiors, advanced safety features, and strong performance, each taking a different approach to comfort, convenience, and your driving experience. Keep reading as we compare the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Honda Pilot to see how these midsize crossover SUVs stack up in key areas that matter most.
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 Ford Explorer and the 2026 Honda Pilot are midsize crossover SUVs that are similar in size and offer three rows of passenger seating.
- Although the 2026 Ford Explorer is slightly wider and longer than the Honda Pilot, it seats only 6-7 passengers, fewer than the Pilot.
- The 2026 Ford Explorer is fuel-efficient, powerful, and offers the kind of interior space where everyone feels comfortable.
What's the difference between the 2026 Ford Explorer and the 2026 Honda Pilot?
The 2026 Ford Explorer and the 2026 Honda Pilot are midsize crossover SUVs that are similar in size, with the Ford Explorer measuring slightly longer and wider. The biggest difference between the 2026 Ford Explorer and the 2026 Honda Pilot is interior space: the Honda Pilot seats up to 8 people, while the Explorer offers versatile seating for 6-7 passengers.
Other differences between the 2026 Ford Explorer and the 2026 Honda Pilot include powertrain options and advanced driver-assistance features, such as Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway technology, which isn't currently available on Honda Pilot models. Both lineups feature a range of models and trims that cater to every type of driver. The Honda Pilot offers one more trim, the Black Edition, for a total of seven trims, compared with the six available models for the Ford Explorer.
Ford Explorer vs. Honda Pilot
|
2026 Ford Explorer |
2026 Honda Pilot |
| Models/Trims |
6 |
7 |
| Updates and Upgrades |
Tremor model |
Design updates, larger displays, and new exterior color choices |
| Powertrain |
2.3L EcoBoost, 3.0L Twin Turbocharged EcoBoost, |
3.5L V-6 |
| Drivetrain |
RWD, Intelligent 4WD |
FWD, Intelligent AWD |
Which midsize crossover SUV offers better fuel economy, the 2026 Ford Explorer or the 2026 Honda Pilot?
Both the 2026 Ford Explorer and the 2026 Honda Pilot offer impressive fuel economy. Still, it's the Ford Explorer that offers a better range of EPA-rated fuel economy, with a driving range of 430 miles and 29 MPG on the highway.
With RWD and Intelligent 4WD drivetrains paired with the power of Ford's EcoBoost engines, including the 3.0L Twin Turbocharged EcoBoost engine, the 2026 Ford Explorer delivers fuel efficiency and the power you need to tow up to 5,000 pounds. While you do get similar performance from some Honda Pilot trims, others have a towing capacity of only 3,500 pounds, which is not an issue for the Ford Explorer models.
Why should I choose the 2026 Ford Explorer over other midsize crossover SUVs, such as the 2026 Honda Pilot?
Choosing the right midsize crossover SUV means finding the vehicle that offers everything you need, including advanced technology, interior space, and on-road performance. That is why the 2026 Ford Explorer remains the top pick for drivers like you. From its safety features, which earned it a 2026 Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), to its three rows of seating that offer comfort and convenience, including heated seats, the 2026 Ford Explorer is the perfect family vehicle.
Compared with other midsize crossover SUVs like the 2026 Honda Pilot, the 2026 Ford Explorer competes in every category and offers incredible features and advanced driving technology at an affordable MSRP. With space for up to seven passengers, luxury materials, USB ports, connectivity for up to ten devices, and heated seats, everything about the new 2026 Ford Explorer is perfect for your family on every errand, school run, and road trip.
Explore More in a Ford
Ensure every summer trip is memorable and every season enjoyable with a new Ford vehicle from Jarrett Ford Dade City. Visit our showroom to test drive the latest Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, and more, or shop online to value your trade-in or apply for financing. With resources like Ford Credit and our dedicated Jarrett Ford Finance Department, finding, financing, or leasing your next vehicle is easy and convenient at Jarrett Ford Dade City.