2026 Honda Pilot
vs 2026 Ford Explorer

Key Comparisons

2026 Honda Pilot

2026 Ford Explorer

Horsepower

285 @ 6100 rpm
(SAE net)

300 @ 5500 rpm
(2.3T 4-cylinder)

 

Maximum
Seating Capacity

8

7

 

Maximum
Cargo Capacity

111.8 cu ft
at least

85.8 cu ft

 

Automatic
Climate Control

Tri-zone
on all trims

Tri-zone 
on all trims

Tire Fill Assist

Standard
on all trims

Not Available
on any trim

Hill Descent Control

Standard
on all trims

Not Available
on 2WD trims

CabinTalk®

Standard
on EX-L and above

Not Available
on any trim

Black Book
Residual Value
(36 Months)1

$24,575
Sport AWD

$23,250 
Active 4WD

The Verdict: The Pilot can carry more people, accommodate a lot more cargo, keep everyone happier with more standard features, and maintain more of its value down the road. The Honda emerges victorious!

1 For 2025 models as of September 2025