There’s no doubt that Americans have fallen in love with the roominess, sporty looks, and commanding driving position of SUVs over conventional cars like sedans. In 2024, two of the most formidable contenders are the Ford Explorer and the Honda Pilot, but which one is the more worthy pick among adventurers and daily commuters alike?
Key Takeaways
- The 2024 Ford Explorer boasts exclusive PowerFold technology which electrically folds the third-row seating at the touch of a button for more cargo space.
- Under the hood, Explorer buyers can choose between two different engines: a turbocharged EcoBoost with 300 horsepower or a swift twin-turbocharged V6 with 400 horsepower.
- The Honda Pilot only has one powerplant, a 285 horsepower V6 that’s weak sauce next to the mighty Explorer.
- Both of these SUVs have similar sized cabins, but the Explorer has slightly more legroom for taller drivers and front seat passengers.
Is the 2024 Explorer bigger than the 2024 Honda Pilot?
Any SUV worth its salt provides plenty of room for both passengers and all of their gear. In this regard, the Explorer doesn’t disappoint. The first and second rows offer 43 inches and 39 inches of legroom, respectively. Admittedly, the third row can be a bit of a tight squeeze for adults on long trips, but it's still functional for children or anyone on shorter trips.
The cargo area is equally generous, offering 18.2 cubic feet of storage behind the third row. With the third row folded down, 52.0 cubic feet becomes available or a whopping 87.8 is available with both the second and third row seats folded down.
By contrast, front seat occupants will find the 2024 Honda Pilot to be slightly more cramped, with just 41 inches of legroom. However, the Pilot does have a roomier second row for passengers than the Explorer at 40.8 inches of legroom. The Pilot’s cargo capacity is similar to the Explorer’s with 18.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.5 cubic feet behind the second row with the third row folded, and 87.0 cubic feet with the second and third row folded down.
So while both SUVs share a comfortable amount of space, the Explorer gets a slight advantage for having more room for the driver and front seat passenger.
Technology
Nowadays, the size and quality of a vehicle’s infotainment system has become a major focal point and while the Pilot’s is adequate, Ford gets the edge when it comes to display size. That’s because it has a standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
If that’s not big enough, a 10.1-inch vertical screen is available on some upscale trim levels. When it comes time to play some tunes, every 2024 Explorer except for the Base trim comes standard with a 12-speaker audio system from Bang & Olufsen
On the other hand, the Pilot delivers a standard 7-inch touchscreen that can be upgraded to a 9-inch display on certain trim levels. In both standard and optional infotainment, the Explorer comes out ahead.
Which SUV is more powerful?
The base engine for the 2024 Explorer is the reliable 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder that appears in a few other Fords, like the sporty Mustang. In the Explorer, it makes 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque.
If you really want to get from Point A to Point B in a hurry, an optional 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 is waiting. It cranks out an impressive 400 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. Regardless of engine type, all 2024 Explorers come with a much-lauded 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is also available and handy for snowy climates or moderate off-road escapades.
Honda’s Pilot only has a single engine choice, or lack thereof. It’s a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that makes 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, which is less oomph than even the base engine in the Explorer. Like the Explorer, the Pilot also has a 10-speed automatic and available all-wheel drive.
If you’re considering hooking up your camper or boat trailer to your next SUV, it’s nice to know that a properly equipped 2024 Explorer can tow up to 5600 pounds, while the Pilot is slightly less robust with a 5000 pound rating.
The Explorer reigns supreme
The 2024 Ford Explorer and 2024 Honda Pilot are both highly recommended choices in the crowded SUV market. Their abundant space is equally perfect for toting families around town or for adventure seekers scouting out their next Florida road trip.
That said, we think the Explorer has more to offer, especially in the horsepower and infotainment departments. Swing by our dealership in beautiful Tarpon Springs today to have our friendly, professional sales staff explain the myriad of trim levels and options that the Explorer offers, then take home the one that’s perfect for you, all at a great price!