The 3-row SUV class is one where practicality is the most important factor, as these big SUVs often have the job of hauling big families and grocery hauls in equal measure. In this review of the 2026 Explorer vs Pilot, we'll be going over the latest Ford vs Honda SUV updates as we undergo a three-row SUV comparison to help you find out which of these two SUVs is best for you and your family.
Key Takeaways:
- The Explorer offers turbocharged performance and a more engaging driving experience.
- The Pilot focuses on interior space, comfort, and family-friendly practicality.
- Both provide strong safety features, differing mainly in driving dynamics and cabin layout.
Will the Ford Explorer be redesigned in 2026?
The 2026 Ford Explorer continues as a carryover model following the major 2025 mid-cycle refresh, meaning it does not receive a full redesign. Instead, Ford focuses on expanding capability and refining features, with the biggest addition being the new off-road-oriented Tremor trim.
This model brings a 1-inch lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, skid plates, and unique "Electric Spice" gold accents, giving the Explorer a more rugged, trail-ready personality. The exterior design remains largely unchanged from 2025, retaining its more upright grille and slimmer LED lighting.
Technology sees the most notable improvements for 2026, with the introduction of the Ford Digital Experience infotainment system and the upgraded BlueCruise 1.5, which adds features like automatic lane changes for hands-free highway driving.
Under the hood, the lineup carries over the proven 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder and 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engines, paired with standard rear-wheel drive or available four-wheel drive. Overall, the 2026 Explorer builds on its recent refresh by adding capability and tech enhancements rather than introducing an all-new generation.
2026 Ford Explorer vs 2026 Honda Pilot: Three-Row SUV Comparison
| Feature |
2026 Ford Explorer |
2026 Honda Pilot |
| Starting Price |
Around $40,000+ starting MSRP |
About $43,690 starting MSRP |
| Engine & Performance |
2.3L turbo I4 or 3.0L twin-turbo V6 with strong acceleration |
3.5L V6 focused on smooth, consistent family performance |
| Drivetrain Layout |
Rear-wheel-drive-based platform with available AWD |
Front-wheel-drive standard with available AWD |
| Interior Space & Comfort |
Balanced space with a more driver-focused layout |
More spacious cabin with superior third-row comfort |
| Technology Features |
BlueCruise 1.5, updated infotainment, digital interface |
Wireless connectivity, practical tech, and user-friendly layout |
| Off-Road Capability |
Tremor trim adds lifted suspension and trail-ready features |
TrailSport trim offers light off-road capability |
| Best For Buyers Who Want... |
Engaging driving dynamics and a modern tech-forward SUV experience |
Maximum comfort, space, and family-focused practicality |
What should I pay for a 2026 Honda Pilot?
The 2026 Honda Pilot starts at $43,690 for the base Sport trim and reaches up to $56,490 for the range-topping Black Edition, offering a broad lineup that balances family practicality with upscale features. Trims include Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, Elite, and Black Edition, giving buyers flexibility depending on their needs. Across the lineup, the Pilot remains a strong choice for families thanks to its spacious three-row layout, solid towing capability, and well-rounded feature set.
For most buyers, the EX-L trim stands out as the best value, adding key upgrades like heated leather seats, wireless phone charging, a power liftgate, and one-touch second-row access. All-wheel drive remains optional but is worth considering for its added traction and increased towing capability. For those wanting a more rugged look and light off-road capability, the TrailSport trim offers a compelling middle ground without jumping to the highest price tiers. Overall, the 2026 Pilot lineup provides a strong mix of comfort, capability, and pricing flexibility.
Is the 2026 Ford Explorer Better than the 2026 Honda Pilot?
While both of these models are stellar in their own right, the Ford Explorer gets our pick for being the better option of the two for most families. Here at Alan Jay Ford Wauchula, we have a vast selection of Ford Explorers that are eager to show why they're some of the best models in the 3-row SUV class, so why not stop by and see for yourself what makes them such stellar models?