When comparing the 2025 Honda Pilot and the 2025 Ford Explorer, several key factors come into play, including performance, interior space, technology, safety features, and overall value. At Ciocca Honda in Harrisburg, we've put together a detailed comparison of these two family-friendly SUVs to help you make an informed decision.
A Closer Look at Performance and Power
The 2025 Honda Pilot comes equipped with a 3.5L V-6 engine generating 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive (FWD) comes standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available. The 2025 Ford Explorer's 2.3L turbo-four engine produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, with rear-wheel drive (RWD) standard and four-wheel drive (4WD) optional. For performance enthusiasts, the Explorer offers an available 3.0L turbo V-6, producing an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of efficiency, the Honda Pilot achieves 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. The Explorer delivers slightly better fuel economy, rated at 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Performance testing shows the Explorer's turbo engine accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, significantly quicker than the Pilot's 7.2 seconds.
The Explorer demonstrates impressive towing capabilities with a 5,000 lb capacity. This is matched by the Pilot's AWD models, although FWD versions tow just 3,500 lbs. Both the Pilot and the Explorer include a number of drive modes, such as Normal, Sport, and Snow, providing enhanced versatility for various driving conditions.
Space and Comfort That Matters
The 2025 Honda Pilot comfortably accommodates eight passengers, while the Ford Explorer seats seven. The Pilot excels in terms of third-row spaciousness with 32.5 inches of legroom, 59.5 inches of shoulder room, and 44.6 inches of hip room compared to the Explorer's 32.2 inches, 54.6 inches, and 40.9 inches, respectively.
The Pilot's cargo capacity highlights its practicality, offering 18.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 48.5 cubic feet with it folded. The Explorer provides 16.3 cubic feet and 46 cubic feet, respectively. The Honda Pilot features versatile flat-folding seats and a removable second-row center seat that enhances cargo flexibility for various hauling needs.
Both the Pilot and the Explorer offer modern infotainment systems with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Premium audio options are available for both vehicles, including a 12-speaker system in the Pilot and a Bang & Olufsen stereo in the Explorer, delivering exceptional sound quality throughout the cabin.
Advanced Safety Features
The 2025 Honda Pilot has earned an overall five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Its Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance features provides comprehensive protection with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation.
The Ford Explorer comes equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360 technology featuring blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Advanced features include post-collision braking, a 360-degree camera system, and parking assist technology. Select Explorer trims offer Ford's BlueCruise hands-free driving system for enhanced highway driving capability on controlled-access highways.
Both vehicles provide extensive safety features, including multiple airbag systems, electronic stability control, brake assist, and child safety locks. The Explorer adds post-collision braking and cross-traffic braking capabilities not found on the Pilot, enhancing overall safety performance.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
The 2025 Honda Pilot measures 199.9 inches in length and stands 71 inches tall, while the Ford Explorer spans 198.8 inches with a height of 69.6 inches. The Explorer features a longer wheelbase at 119.1 inches compared to the Pilot's 113.8 inches, contributing to different handling characteristics and ride quality.
The Honda Pilot offers sophisticated exterior color options, including Platinum White Pearl, Obsidian Blue Pearl, and Radiant Red Metallic II. The Pilot's design emphasizes a balance between style and functionality, with LED headlights enhancing both visibility and modern aesthetics. The Ford Explorer design showcases a wider grille and distinctive color options such as Vapor Blue Metallic and Rapid Red Metallic.
Detailed comparison
To help you make a more informed purchasing decision, here's a detailed comparison of the 2025 Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer's key features.
| Feature | 2025 Honda Pilot | 2025 Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price | $40,200 | $39,755 |
| Engine | 3.5L V-6 | 2.3L turbo-four |
| Horsepower | 285 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain Options | FWD/AWD | RWD/4WD |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 19/27 mpg | 21/28 mpg |
| Seating Capacity | 8 | 7 |
| Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row) | 18.6 cu.ft. | 16.3 cu.ft. |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500/5,000 lbs FWD/AWD | 5,000 lbs |
Key Advantages and Considerations
The 2025 Honda Pilot and 2025 Ford Explorer each offer distinct advantages, catering to different needs. The Pilot stands out with its roomy interior, comfortable seating for eight, and user-friendly infotainment system as well as its excellent safety ratings, comfortable ride quality, and superior cargo capacity. However, it comes with a lower towing capacity on some models, slower acceleration, and a higher starting price than the Explorer.
On the other hand, the 2025 Ford Explorer excels with its powerful engine options, impressive towing capacity, and capable handling, along with its extensive range of standard features and advanced safety technology. However, its tighter third-row seating and reduced cargo space might make it less suitable for large families.
Your Perfect Family SUV Awaits at Ciocca Honda
At Ciocca Honda in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, our expert staff will guide you through the impressive features of the 2025 Honda Pilot. We'll help you explore the various trim levels and select the perfect configuration for your family's needs. From the spacious interior to the advanced safety features, we'll demonstrate why the Pilot stands out in the competitive midsize SUV segment.
Contact us to schedule your test drive today and discover why so many families choose the Honda Pilot as their trusted family SUV.
