Ford Explorer
What’s for sale near me?
Above Average: Turbocharged engines, high-tech features, off-road capable, distinctive styling, third-row seat, fuel economy
Below Average: Unfriendly control interfaces including the Sync system, average reliability, IIHS small overlap crash test results
Consensus: A very flexible 7-passenger SUV with real off-road ability, loads of high-tech gear with a few questionable marks in the areas of safety and reliability.
Honda Pilot
What’s for sale near me?
Above Average: Resale, outward visibility, simple controls, 3rd-row seat comfort
Below Average: IIHS crash test results on 2015 and earlier models, average reliability scores
Consensus: An impressive 7-passenger SUV with a roomy interior, strong V6 and good marks for resale, but like the Explorer, a few questionable reliability and crash-test scores on earlier models.
The Ford Explorer is the SUV for people who love high-tech interiors, powerful turbocharged engines and the ability to tackle light off-road tasks. The Honda Pilot appeals to families looking for a solid SUV with a smooth ride, easy to use controls, comfortable seating and a good outward visibility all around. Surprisingly, neither the Explorer nor the Pilot pull in top reliability or IIHS crash test results, although crash test data for the Pilot drastically improves after 2016. The Pilot offers only one engine, a powerful V6 that returns average fuel economy for the class. The Explorer offers numerous engine choices depending on the year, as well as an all-terrain AWD system that allows it to venture off-road. The Explorer is loaded with high tech features, some good some not so good, but the Pilot after 2016 offers advanced driver assist unavailable on the Explorer. Both SUVs have similar factory and CPO warranties. The Pilot holds its value better than the Explorer, so it will cost a bit more.
Ford Explorer Advantages
Engine choices, high tech infotainment and parking assists, numerous trim levels, off-road ability
Honda Pilot Advantages
Slightly more passenger volume than the Explorer, user-friendly infotainment, wide 3rd-row seat, V6 fuel economy
Similarities
Both the Explorer and Pilot can comfortably carry seven adults, can tow up to 5,000 pounds and get average marks for safety and reliability.
Final Recommendation
Given that until just recently, neither SUV excels in the areas of reliability, resale or safety, we’d go with the Pilot for its comfort and retained value.
OK, so what’s next?
I’m ready for one of these cars, and I’d like to trade in my current car while I’m at it.
