If your vehicle needs are expanding, buying or leasing a three-row SUV such as the 2024 Honda Pilot is a smart decision. This well-known SUV comes from the midsize segment and can accommodate up to eight occupants. Then, it includes an impressive list of safety features and a powerful V6 engine under the hood. Since it’s a Honda, it also includes some appeal for keen drivers too. But, it faces many competing models, such as the 2024 Ford Explorer.
So, let us have a Honda vs Ford comparison to see who provides a better three-row SUV. We’ll check out each model’s performance, safety systems, and interior specifications. This will enable us to help you choose the most suitable three-row SUV. You can also test-drive the 2024 Honda Pilot at CMA’s Honda of Winchester. Our dealership is located in Winchester, VA, and our team is waiting to help you.
Honda equips the 2024 Pilot with 158 cubic feet of passenger volume and eight seats. Meanwhile, the 2024 Ford Explorer gets just 153 cubic feet and seven seats. So, the 2024 Pilot is a better fit for larger families. The extra bit of interior space also means that everyone will be comfortable. Both models can be specified with leather seat upholstery. Moreover, the 2024 Pilot comes with tri-zone climate control and USB charging ports for all rows. Honda also thoughtfully includes enough cup holders for everyone.
These two three-row SUVs are also available with second-row captain chairs. This is a popular choice for users who need some extra comfort and ergonomic benefits. Here, the 2024 Pilot can still accommodate seven occupants, while the 2024 Explorer’s capacity drops to six. Meanwhile, the 2024 Pilot can be specified with power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats.
Then, the 2024 Pilot scores high in cargo capacity, with 19 cubic feet of space. This is with the third row deployed, and the 2024 Explorer provides 18 cubic feet in the same configuration. Furthermore, the 2024 Pilot has easy-folding third-row seats for more cargo capacity. It also allows you to fold the second row, too.
Both three-row SUVs have standard Bluetooth®, as well as Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®. Moreover, the 2024 Pilot range features a 7-inch or 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster, depending on trim choice. The 2024 Explorer does not offer a digital gauge cluster on the standard trims. Music fans can choose a 12-speaker Bose sound system upgrade in the 2024 Pilot as well.
A naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 powers the 2024 Honda Pilot range. This 285-horsepower engine makes up to 262 lb-ft of torque. It is also used in other Honda and some Acura models and is renowned for its smoothness and refinement. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. In most trims, it drives the front wheels, but buyers can opt for Honda’s i-VTM4 intelligent all-wheel drive system. A six-mode drive selector is standard. The modes offered include Normal, Sport, Snow, Econ, Tow, and Sand.
The TrailSport trim offers some off-roading enhancements. Only available with all-wheel drive, it gets a seventh drive mode called Trail. Then, Honda outfits it with all-terrain tires and underbody skid plates. Hence, it is ideal for users who enjoy some mild off-roading from time to time.
The 2024 Ford Explorer comes with two turbocharged engines from the EcoBoost family. Lower trims use a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower. Higher trims get a 400-horsepower 3.0-liter V6. Rear-wheel drive and a 10-speed automatic gearbox are standard for most of the range. All-wheel drive is available, as are some mild off-roading tweaks.
The Honda Sensing® suite of active and passive safety systems is standard across the 2024 Pilot range. It brings features such as blind spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and a driver attention warning system. Buyers also receive adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The 2024 Ford Explorer offers similar features, but some are only optional.
Our winning choice of three-row SUV is the 2024 Honda Pilot, and our comparison shows why. It’s got a roomier interior and can seat more people. Then, it offers excellent tech and safety features. Finally, you’ll be glad for its powerful V6 that has enough power for all situations. The TrailSport trim also provides enough off-road capabilities for casual users.
If you’re interested in buying or leasing a 2024 Pilot after reading this, we’re here to help. Contact us at CMA’s Honda of Winchester in Winchester, VA. Then, we’ll help you pick the right trim and options. After that, you can check out our array of auto financing choices to find the best one.
We’ll see you soon.