2021 Ford Explorer vs Honda Pilot
When a growing family is looking for the right vehicle around Plainfield, Indianapolis, and Brownsburg, IN, two of the more popular choices include the Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot. This makes sense, given each SUV’s reputation for being reliable, spacious, and safe.
Andy Mohr Ford created this 2021 Ford Explorer vs. Honda Pilot comparison to help drivers choose between these enticing models. Keep reading to explore the options available in both the Explorer and Pilot, then learn where to test drive the better SUV.
Ford Explorer vs Honda Pilot: Performance
Large SUVs need plenty of power under the hood, and while the 2021 Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot both have powerful engines, the Explorer comes out on top. It offers drivers three available engine options, including the 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine. This rugged motor delivers up to 400 horsepower, 415 lb-ft of torque, and can tow upwards of 5,600 pounds when properly equipped.
The sole engine offered by the Honda Pilot is the 3.5L V6. This engine generates a mere 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque while reaching a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds for the all-wheel drive trim levels and the proper equipment.
Overall, if you’re looking to tow more and command the road with confidence, the clear choice is the Ford Explorer. Boasting a more capable powertrain, you’ll have no trouble accelerating with ease as soon as you hit the gas.
2021 Explorer vs Pilot: AWD or 4WD?
If you do a lot of driving through inclement weather, it’s a great idea to use a vehicle equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD). The Honda Pilot features an AWD system that applies torque to all four wheels for added traction, which helps make getting through snow and mud easier.
If you’re planning on getting even more traction, the Ford Explorer takes things a step further and provides an available Intelligent 4WD system. This technology constantly monitors the torque in your wheels so that if slippage is detected, it can apply torque to the wheels that need it. The result is a dynamic system that’s prepared for a wide number of possible driving scenarios.
Explorer vs Pilot: Interior Dimensions
The Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot make sure the entire family has enough room to stretch their legs and fit all their cargo at the same time. As you can see, the Ford Explorer interior dominates passenger space with superior legroom overall:
|
Legroom |
Ford Explorer |
Honda Pilot |
|
Front Row |
43 inches |
40.9 inches |
|
Second Row |
39 inches |
38.4 inches |
|
Third Row |
32.2 inches |
31.9 inches |
With these measurements, it’s clear that even taller drivers and passengers will prefer the roomer Explorer.
Advanced Foldable Seating
If you’re looking to make full use of your cabin, you’ll want to make sure you’re folding your seats whenever you need to. These two SUVs are designed with standard foldable back seats that make it easy for you to expand your cargo volume at a moment’s notice. Just stow your seats away when you don’t need them, and you’re good to go.
It’s even easier to fold your back seats in the 2021 Ford Explorer with the help of the available PowerFold® third-row seats. With the press of a button, you’ll be able to fold your back seats down, so you don’t even have to reach to expand your vehicle’s cargo space.
2021 Explorer vs Pilot: Premium Audio Technology
Who doesn’t love some good music? The Ford Explorer has you covered with its available B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen. This system offers up to 12 high-quality speakers that will help deliver the detailed audio reproduction you’re looking for in your daily ride.
Unfortunately, with the Honda Pilot, drivers won’t have the same level of quality in their premium sound system. This SUV features a Premium Audio System with 10 speakers, which means you won’t get the same surround-sound effect as you would with its competitor. If you really want to bring out the most in your music, drive the 2021 Ford Explorer.
Driver Assistance Capabilities
When you’re out on the highway, you don’t want to become exhausted from driving for long periods. That’s why these SUVs include driver-assistance features that will help simplify driving for you. This way, you can stay safer and more alert on the road.
With both the 2021 Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot, you’ll find a standard Lane-Keeping System. If your vehicle starts to move towards the edge of your lane, the vehicle will be able to provide steering adjustments that bring you back into your intended lane.
City drivers can look forward to driving the Ford Explorer, though, because this vehicle offers an available Active Park Assist 2.0 system. Turn this system on, and it will automatically steer you into both perpendicular and parallel parking spaces. This makes parking on busy streets an absolute breeze, especially in the city.
Advanced Cabin Comfort
When you’re trying to keep all your passengers nice and cozy for the road ahead, you want your cabin at just the right temperature. However, what can you do if everyone in the cabin wants a different temperature? Luckily, both vehicles feature standard Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control systems.
This technology allows the Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot to automatically manage the cabin temperature in three separate areas so everyone will feel nice and satisfied. Just set a target temperature, and let your vehicle do the rest.
To take comfort to the next level, the 2021 Ford Explorer is also available with multicontour front seats with Active Motion®. This feature provides you and your front passenger with five gentle massage themes at three different levels of intensity so you can melt tension away during long road trips.
Unfortunately, the Pilot doesn’t have massaging front seats, so you won’t be treated to the same level of luxury.
Should I Buy the 2021 Ford Explorer or Honda Pilot?
With superior performance, ample cabin space, and more advanced technology, the 2021 Ford Explorer solidifies itself as a standout SUV. While the Honda Pilot puts up a good competition, the Ford Explorer is the ideal choice for many families near Plainfield, Indianapolis, and Brownsburg, Indiana.
You can test drive this exciting model for yourself at Andy Mohr Ford. Stop into our showroom to get behind the wheel today.
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