2022 Ford Explorer vs Honda Pilot

The 2022 Ford Explorer is a large, full-sized SUV that offers three rows of seats. It can accommodate up to seven people and has massive amounts of cargo space. There's 18.2 cubic-feet of storage space behind the third row. With the rear seats let down, this can be expanded up to 87.8 cubic-feet of storage space. The Explorer measures in at 199-inches long, 79-inches wide and 70-inches high.

The Explorer provides a smooth and comfortable ride. The interior is cozy, well-equipped and roomy enough for passengers to stretch out in. There's plenty of modern tech in the Explorer for convenience, entertainment and safety. One of its biggest competitors for 2022 in this class of SUVs is the Honda Pilot.

The 2022 Honda Pilot is also a full-sized SUV. It has room for up to seven or eight occupants. The Pilot shares a similar size with the Explorer at 196.5-inches long, 78.6-inches wide and 70.6-inches high. It offers 16.5 cubic-feet of storage space behind the third row, 46.8 cubic-feet behind the second row and 83.9 cubic-feet of space when all of the rear seats are folded down.

The 2022 Ford Explorer and the Honda Pilot are both excellent large SUVs. Both offer a smooth ride, roomy interiors full of modern tech, safety equipment & amenities - leaving potential buyers spoilt for choice! Though different in specific characteristics such as off-road capabilities & interior style; we must compare them to decide which offers greater overall value to best suit various needs. Let's break down how these two high caliber vehicles stack up against each other across key criteria points.

The Powertrain

Ford offers the 2022 Explorer in a total of eight different trim levels. There are three different powertrains for this SUV. The first four trim levels get a 2.3-liter EcoBoost I4 engine that makes 300 horsepower. This engine also features Start/Stop Technology for better fuel efficiency. Models equipped with this engine should get around 20 miles-per-gallon in the city and 27 miles-per-gallon on the highway.

The Explorer's advanced 3.0-liter V6 engine with dual turbochargers packs a powerful punch, generating 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque yet offering an economical EPA combined fuel economy rating up to 25 mpg - even when outfitted with all wheel drive! Start/Stop Technology comes standard, keeping things efficient on the roads no matter where you go in your Explorer.

Ford has designed the Explorer with a hybrid powertrain to give drivers an undeniably powerful and efficient option. The 3.3-liter V6 engine combined with electric motor provides up to 318 horsepower, delivering excellent performance capabilities while achieving 27/29 MPG in city/highway driving - perfect for cost-conscious explorers looking for maximum efficiency on their adventures.

Drivers can power up their ride with the available 10-speed automatic transmission and choose between RWD or Intelligent 4WD System, featuring an impressive seven driving modes. Those looking for extra stability when navigating steep terrain will appreciate Hill-Descent Control feature on select models.

The 2022 Honda Pilot is a large SUV with plenty of power and great versatility. Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that cranks out 280 horsepower, it can go from 0 to 60 in just under 6 seconds - offering both agility and convenience for drivers looking for an efficient ride.

It has an EPA combined fuel-economy rating of 23 miles per gallon on 2WD models while optional AWD comes equipped with Intelligent Traction Management which provides modes specifically tailored towards different terrains such as snow, sand or mud; keeping you surefooted wherever the road takes you! MacPherson front suspension and multi-link rear suspension together with stabilizer bars ensure smooth handling no matter the terrain.

Drivability

Ford offers a wide array of powerful engine options in the Explorer, while Honda only features one. Taking even the weakest base model into consideration, Ford's Explorer surpasses its counterpart when it comes to acceleration and passing power- crucial qualities for an SUV carrying precious cargo around. And if that weren't enough? The turbocharged V6 takes things up another notch.

The Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer offer powerful, smooth braking capabilities to make sure you reach your destination safely. On top of that, their suspension systems provide a remarkably comfortable journey over all types of terrain. When it comes down to crunch time - however - the Pilot really shines through with its superior steering performance; tackling twists in the road with remarkable agility even at speed.

The Ford Explorer offers unbeatable off-road performance, plus the capability to haul a trailer or boat with ease. Drivers who prioritize steering dynamics will prefer the Honda's AWD system but may be disappointed by its ground clearance and lack of sporty features. However, those heading out onto rough terrain are likely better suited in an Explorer – they won't regret it.

Interior comfort and entertainment have a great effect on a vehicle's overall drivability. Both of these SUVs have available 10-way power seats with lumbar support up front. They both offer leather upholstery as well as heating for the seats and steering wheel. They even have ventilated seats for a cooler riding experience during those hot summer days.

The Honda has a Tri-Zone Automatic Climate-Control System with Humidity Control and Air Filtration. The Ford has Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature Control. Both are fine systems, though the Honda Pilot's system is superior. Most models of the Explorer have Ford's SYNC 3 Infotainment System with an 8-inch touchscreen. Higher trim levels get a 10.1-inch LCD display with swipe and pinch-to-zoom capabilities.

The SYNC 3 System has Bluetooth for music streaming and Voice-Command Technology. A navigation system can be added on as well. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work with the infotainment system. Music lovers will enjoy the available 980-watt stereo and 14 speakers with a subwoofer by Bang & Olufsen®.

Honda's infotainment system offers an array of advanced amenities, including Bluetooth and Voice Recognition technology. Compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Pilot also provides a WiFi hotspot for everyone to take advantage of internet access on-the-go. Depending on your trim level choice, you may be able to enjoy either an 8 or 10 inch touchscreen display - both accompanied by audio setup including 10 speakers plus AM/FM stereo along with SiriusXM Radio compatibility.

By opting into the rear entertainment package featuring multiple screens connected to BluRay player functionality – passengers can keep entertained while travelling in this SUV model! And don’t forget about wireless charging capabilities embedded within all models ensuring smartphones remain powered throughout journeys.

Safety

Everyone wants a safe vehicle to protect them and their loved ones. Both Ford and Honda have put a lot of thought, smart engineering and impressive technology into these vehicles for just that purpose. They both share some basic, standard features like advanced airbag systems. They both also have rear-view cameras, tire-pressure monitors, child safety locks and the LATCH system for securing child safety seats.

The 2022 Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot provide ultimate protection for all passengers. Both vehicles have dual-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags with knee support in the driver's seat and passenger seats, a Safety Canopy system for added security to the third row occupants as well as rollover sensors that can detect any potential impacts from above. In addition to its comprehensive safety features, Honda takes it one step further by implementing their ACE body structure technology which reinforces overall vehicle stability while additionally providing 3 point seatbelts at every seating position – an industry first.

Ford equips all of their vehicles with an advanced system called Ford Co-Pilot360™ Technology. Even though every Explorer gets this technology, the higher trim levels will have more individual features. As part of this package, every Explorer has AdvanceTrac® Traction Control with Roll Stability Control™.

Ford's Co-Pilot360 tech also has a Lane-Keeping System with a Lane-Departure Alert. The rear camera has an assist grid that appears on the infotainment display to aid in backing up. There's an available 360-degree camera for the higher trim levels. There are parking sensors up front and in the rear, as well as an available Active Park Assist 2.0 System.

Honda's advanced Pilot model puts safety first, offering drivers the latest in technological traction and stability control. Vehicle Stability Assist™ with Traction Control ensures a smooth ride on any terrain while its exclusive Road-Departure Mitigation System keeps you securely within your lane when taking unexpected turns. Whether driving through city streets or rural roads, Honda Sensing Technologies provide peace of mind thanks to enhanced features like Lane Keeping Assist System and Collision-Mitigation Braking for an extra layer of security every time.

Which Has the Best Value?

Need a luxurious SUV with plenty of power? The 2022 Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot are both great options that come in various trim levels. With the highest trims, you're looking at an MSRP just under $52,000 for either one - not cheap but competitively priced next to each other. Those who want more bang-for-their buck can opt for the base model Explorer which offers additional horsepower and performance over its competitor without sacrificing too much in terms of tech or safety features at an even lower cost than the base Honda Pilot; so overall it's quite pocketbook friendly.

The Ford Explorer has the better infotainment system, but the buyer would need to move up to a higher trim level or add it as an option. At that point, it may not be worth the cost increase. Something else to consider is that the Honda Pilot has a more upscale interior overall. The Honda brand has one of the best reputations for reliability and longevity too.

Honda's 2022 Pilot offers the best value here. When comparing the lower trim levels, the Ford has more horsepower, but it's not as significantly more from the base engine. One would need to move up to a higher trim for the turbocharged V6 to make a major difference. At that point, they would be paying much more and still not getting the number of driver-assist and convenience features as the Honda Pilot.

Honda simply offers more for less, though the base-model Explorer may still be a better choice for those on the tightest of budgets.

Which is Better?

Most buyers looking for a new full-sized SUV would be happy with either the 2022 Ford Explorer or the 2022 Honda Pilot. Which is better largely depends on what the buyer prioritizes. The Explorer has slightly more cargo space, while the Pilot has room for one more passenger. Both have unique and attractive exterior styles and beautiful, well-designed interiors.

A powerful V6 turbo engine gives the Ford Explorer serious performance credentials, while it's also well-equipped to handle cargo and passengers. Further bolstering its appeal is an impressive infotainment system and audio setup. On the other hand, Honda offers a greater degree of interior luxury with superior craftsmanship in design materials as well as comfort features such as rear entertainment systems and more comfortable seating. Both vehicles provide remarkably smooth rides but it’s worth noting that steering dynamics are better on Pilot models.

The Honda Pilot may be the better bargain. Honda has loaded down even the base trim level with so much stuff. There's more and better safety features and driver-assist technology. If this is your priority, then the Honda is a fine choice, and well worth the money. If you can do without some of the driver-assist stuff, and you prioritize power and performance, the Explorer is probably your best bet.