Compare: Honda Pilot vs. Ford Explorer
2026 Honda
Pilot
2026 Ford
Explorer
3-Row SUV Comparison
Honda Pilot vs. Ford Explorer
Shoppers near Albert Lea and Owatonna cross-shopping midsize SUVs often narrow the search to the Honda Pilot and the Ford Explorer. Both offer three rows and real towing muscle, but they take different approaches to power, seating, and cargo room.
Here is how the 2026 Honda Pilot and the 2026 Ford Explorer stack up on the specs that matter most for family life in southern Minnesota.
Spec For Spec
Fleet-wide specifications as published by Honda and Ford
| Honda Pilot | Ford Explorer | |
| Seating Capacity | Up to 8 | Up to 7 |
| Max Cargo Volume | 113.7 cu ft | 85.8 cu ft |
| Max Towing Capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs | Up to 5,000 lbs |
| Transmission | 10-Speed Automatic | 10-Speed Automatic |
| Available AWD | i-VTM4 All-Wheel-Drive System | Intelligent 4WD |
The Verdict
Why Shoppers Choose the Pilot
Both SUVs match on towing and transmission, but the Pilot pulls ahead on the numbers that decide most family road trips. An extra seat, nearly 28 more cubic feet of maximum cargo room, and a naturally aspirated V6 that does not depend on a turbocharger to deliver its power all add up to a vehicle built for hauling people and gear without compromise.
Stop by Marthaler Honda of Owatonna to see the Pilot in person and take it for a test drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Honda Pilot or Ford Explorer seat more people?
The Honda Pilot seats up to eight people, while the Ford Explorer seats up to seven, depending on trim and configuration.
Which has more horsepower, the Pilot or the Explorer?
The base Ford Explorer's 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 is rated at 300 horsepower, while the Honda Pilot's V-6 is rated at 285 horsepower. Ford also offers a higher-output 3.0L EcoBoost V6 on select Explorer trims.
How much can the Honda Pilot tow compared to the Ford Explorer?
Both the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer offer a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
Which SUV has more cargo space, the Pilot or the Explorer?
The Honda Pilot offers up to 113.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, compared to up to 85.8 cubic feet in the Ford Explorer.
Where can I test drive a Honda Pilot near Albert Lea, MN?
Marthaler Honda of Owatonna carries the Honda Pilot and serves shoppers throughout Albert Lea, Owatonna, and the surrounding southern Minnesota area. Schedule a test drive with our team today.
Disclaimers
Honda Pilot specifications sourced from automobiles.honda.com/pilot. Ford Explorer specifications sourced from ford.com/suvs/explorer/2026.
Ford towing disclosure: When properly equipped. Max towing varies based on cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories, and number of passengers.
Ford cargo disclosure: Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and weight distribution.
Feature and specification availability varies by trim and configuration. See dealer for details. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Please verify all information with Marthaler Honda of Owatonna.