2026 Ford Explorer vs. 2026 Honda Pilot
If you’re looking for a family SUV that balances comfort, capability, and everyday practicality, the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Honda Pilot are two of the most popular options on the road. Both offer spacious seating, smart tech, and the versatility you expect, but they go about it in different ways.
In this comparison, we’ll break down how the Explorer and Pilot stack up across performance, features, safety, and value to help you decide which one fits your lifestyle and budget best.
Performance and MPG Comparison
When it comes to performance and efficiency in the 2026 midsize SUV segment, the Ford Explorer delivers a blend of power and impressive fuel efficiency that sets it apart from the Honda Pilot.
The Explorer’s standard turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine produces a strong 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, with EPA-estimated figures of up to 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, giving you solid everyday efficiency without sacrificing capability. Want more power? Opt for the more performance-oriented 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6, which delivers up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
By comparison, the 2026 Honda Pilot relies on a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 that makes a respectable 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, with EPA estimates typically around 19 mpg city and up to 27 mpg highway. The Pilot’s performance is solid, but slightly less impressive than the Explorer’s base setup.
Room to Relax: Inside the 2026 Explorer and Honda Pilot
The interiors of both the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Honda Pilot are designed for families, but they offer slightly different benefits.
The Explorer offers roomy front- and second-row seating with generous headroom and legroom, making long drives more comfortable. Its third row is best for occasional use by adults or regular use by kids. Clever seat-folding options expand cargo flexibility when needed.
Beyond the numbers, the Explorer’s interior comfort elevates the everyday experience with supportive seating, available premium materials, and standard tri-zone climate control that helps keep everyone comfortable, no matter where they’re seated. Second-row passengers will also enjoy thoughtful amenities and easy access to controls, making longer rides more comfortable for the entire family.
The Pilot isn’t far behind in comfort. Its cabin is known for generous legroom and a smooth ride, but the Explorer’s combination of ergonomics, materials, and versatile seating arrangements gives it a slight edge for buyers who want a balance of comfort and everyday functionality.
Driver Assistance and In-Cabin Technology
When it comes to driver-assistance technology, both the 2026 Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot offer strong safety suites, but the Explorer is equipped with more standard features across the lineup.
Every Explorer comes equipped with Ford’s Co-Pilot360™ Assist+ system, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert, all of which help prevent common collisions and give you more peace of mind behind the wheel. Higher Explorer trims can also be equipped with Ford BlueCruise, a hands-free highway driving assist that takes the stress out of long freeway stretches while keeping safety firmly in focus.
Inside, the Explorer’s in-cabin technology is anchored by a large 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system paired with a full digital instrument cluster, offering crisp graphics and intuitive controls for navigation, media, and connectivity. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 5G Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and multiple USB ports come standard, making it easy to keep all your devices connected and charged on the go.
The Pilot also offers a modern tech suite, keeping you connected and confident on every drive. It comes standard with a large 12.3-inch touchscreen that serves as the hub for audio, navigation, and vehicle settings, along with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ for seamless smartphone connectivity. The SUV also offers built-in 5G Wi-Fi hotspot capability, helping keep multiple devices online during long trips. Many trims add thoughtful technologies, such as an available head-up display that projects key information into your line of sight so you can stay focused on the road.
For added awareness in tight spaces, higher trims include a 360-degree multiview camera system that displays the area around the vehicle from multiple angles on the display.
With its larger screen, standard advanced safety features, and available hands-free driving capabilities, the 2026 Explorer offers a slightly more comprehensive tech package that enhances both safety and everyday convenience.
Smart Pricing Meets Everyday Ownership
When it comes to pricing, the 2026 Ford Explorer gives you a clear advantage right from the start. The Explorer begins at approximately $38,465 MSRP. By comparison, the 2026 Honda Pilot starts higher, at around $42,195 MSRP.
These starting prices make the Explorer a more accessible entry point into the midsize SUV segment, especially for those who want modern tech and strong performance without stretching their budget.
Beyond sticker price, ownership experience matters just as much. Both SUVs offer solid warranty coverage, dependable reputations, and advanced safety technology designed to support long-term confidence behind the wheel.
If you’re looking to maximize value while still enjoying modern comfort and capability, the Ford Explorer often stands out as the smarter long-term choice.
Your 2026 Ford Explorer Awaits at Mike Reichenbach Ford
If the 2026 Ford Explorer feels like the right fit for your lifestyle, we’d love to help you take the next step!
Visit Mike Reichenbach Ford in Florence, SC, to see available Ford Explorers for sale, explore trim options, and experience everything this SUV offers from the driver’s seat.
Our friendly team is here to answer your questions, walk you through features, and help you find an Explorer that matches your needs, whether that means performance, comfort, or everyday practicality. Stop by today or reach out online to get started!