2024 Pilot Vs. 2024 Explorer in Falls Church, VA

Comparing the 2024 Pilot and the 2024 Explorer

Midsize crossovers are an immensely popular segment, with over 25 choices, including the 2024 Honda Pilot and the 2024 Ford Explorer. The midsize segment sees repeat buyers, those upsizing from a compact and those downsizing from a full-size SUV. That’s why many midsize crossovers offer three rows of seating, versatile cargo configurations, and plenty of technological features.

Let's discover which midsize crossover is the best one to buy this year in a Honda vs. Ford match-up. We'll examine each model's interior, safety, and performance characteristics. Then, you'll see which one is the most suitable.

Interior Comparison

As midsize crossovers, the 2024 Honda Pilot and the 2024 Ford Explorer have approximately 150 cubic feet of passenger space and three rows of seating. However, the 2024 Pilot can seat up to eight occupants, while the 2024 Explorer can accept just seven. This factor is essential if you regularly transport your kids' friends to the sports field or movie theater.

Alternatively, if your parents or in-laws live with you, they'll prefer the luxurious captain chair option both midsize crossovers offer. This popular option replaces the second-row bench seat with two individually adjustable seats with armrests. It's a great choice for those who like to stretch out or are growing older and need more comfort.

Cargo capacity is another key metric with midsize crossovers. Here, the 2024 Pilot offers 19 cubic feet of capacity when all three rows of seats are deployed. Meanwhile, the 2024 Explorer has 18 cubic feet of cargo space. Furthermore, Honda has engineered the Pilot's third- and second-row seats to fold easily in several ways. Hence, you can achieve many combinations of passenger and luggage capacity.

Both these popular midsize crossovers have automatic climate control systems with rear air vents, touchscreen infotainment systems, Apple CarPlay®, and Android Auto™ on all trims. The 2024 Pilot also comes with a digital instrument cluster. Lower trims pack a 7-inch unit, while higher trims receive a crisp, clear 10.2-inch screen. You can also choose optional wireless phone charging pads and rear entertainment systems for either midsize crossover.

Performance Comparison

Honda fits every 2024 Pilot with a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V-6 engine that has gained a reputation for being a smooth and refined unit. It produces 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque and is mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Moreover, some trims include paddle shifters on the steering wheel for the driver to change gears manually.

The 2024 Pilot range is mostly front-wheel drive but can be specified with Honda's i-VTM4 intelligent all-wheel drive system. Choosing this also adds a six-mode drive selector. The six modes available are Econ, Normal, Sport, Snow, Sand, and Tow. The Tow mode enables the 2024 Pilot to pull up to 5,000 pounds.

If you're a keen off-roader who enjoys tackling mild trails, the TrailSport trim of the 2024 Pilot is for you. This trim has the i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system, a 1-inch suspension lift, underbody skid plates, and all-terrain tires as standard equipment. It also adds a Trail mode to the drive mode selector. Thus, if you plan to lease a 2024 Pilot, this trim is perfect since leasing typically forbids aftermarket modifications.

Meanwhile, 2024 Ford Explorer buyers can pick from two trim-specific powertrains. Lower trims get a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit with 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. On the other hand, higher trims receive a 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 that makes 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. All trims get a 10-speed automatic gearbox and rear-wheel-drive. But some trims can be specified with all-wheel drive. The towing capacity is 5,600 pounds, depending on trim and spec.

Safety Features Comparison

The 2024 Pilot includes Honda’s Sensing® suite of safety technologies across the range. Standard features are automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. You'll also get lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and cross-traffic alert. The 2024 Explorer includes some of these features; others are optional.

Find the 2024 Honda Pilot in Falls Church, VA

The 2024 Honda Pilot is a value-packed midsize crossover. With its silky smooth V6 engine, capable TrailSport trim, and versatile cabin, it's perfect as your next brand-new car. Come to Bill Page Honda in Falls Church, VA, and take a test drive today. Then, we'll help you secure financing and drive home in a brand-new Pilot.