2020 Honda Pilot
2020 Ford Explorer
2020 Honda Pilot vs. 2020 Ford Explorer Comparison
If you're shopping for a three-row SUV, you've probably come across the Honda Pilot and the Ford Explorer in your research. The Pilot was redesigned in the 2016 model year, and the Explorer was redesigned for the 2020 model year. Though it can be tempting to fall for one that has been recently redesigned and boasts about new capabilities, it's important to look under the surface to see how various three-row SUVs truly stack up against one another. We've compared these two three-row SUVs head to head to see which comes out on top.
Performance
On the surface, it may seem that the Explorer has the Honda beat with a turbocharged I-4 engine that produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque and is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Pilot has a V6 with 280 horsepower and 262 lb.-ft. of torque and a 9-speed automatic transmission. But on the road, there couldn't be a bigger difference between the two SUVs, and the Pilot takes a clear lead. The Honda SUV accelerates quicker and drives much smoother than the Explorer. Additionally, though the Explorer's estimated mpg numbers are marginally higher than the Pilot's estimated mpg numbers, real-world testing shows that the Pilot pulls far ahead of the Explorer in fuel efficiency, too.
Interior Comparison and Value
When comparing the interiors and value of these two SUVs, the differences in favor of the Honda Pilot show up on paper and in person. To start, the 2020 Ford Explorer is far more expensive than the Pilot, with the Explorer's beginning MSRP starting where the Pilot's ends. And though it's true that sometimes that a higher price tag means better quality, this is not one of those times. Inside the Pilot, you'll find that every material is high-quality, even in base trims. There is thoughtful storage, a user-friendly, quick-reacting infotainment center, and a quiet cabin makes every ride peaceful. In contrast, most surfaces in the Explorer feel cheap and ill-thought out, which is especially disappointing given the high price tag. The infotainment system is clunky and slow to respond, and isn't well-equipped to support modern technology like Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto. By choosing the Pilot you can get a higher-quality vehicle for a significantly lower price.
Safety Features
This is another area where the Pilot has the Explorer beat quite handily. Standard driver assistance features on the Honda Pilot include a collision mitigation braking system with automatic emergency braking, a road departure mitigation braking system with steering assistance, adaptive cruise control, a lane-keeping assist system with steering assistance, a rearview camera, and automatic headlamps. Standard safety in the Explorer only includes automatic headlamps, a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, a lane-keeping system, and pre-collision assistance.
Find the Pilot at Barbour Hendrick Honda Greenville
If you're in need of a reliable, safe, high-quality three-row SUV at an incredible price, you need the 2020 Honda Pilot. This unbeatable vehicle can be yours today! Browse our available Pilot models and find the one that's right for you from Barbour Hendrick Honda Greenville.
