Honda Pilot vs. Ford Explorer, and Hyundai Palisade

When shopping for a midsize SUV, buyers seek a blend of comfort, reliability, performance, and advanced features. Among the top contenders in this segment are the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Hyundai Palisade. Each offers unique strengths, but the Honda Pilot consistently stands out for its balance of practicality, efficiency, and value. Let’s take a closer look at how these SUVs compare.

Performance and Powertrain

• Honda Pilot: Powered by a refined 3.5L V6 engine delivering 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, the Pilot offers smooth acceleration and impressive towing capabilities of up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped. Its 10-speed automatic transmission ensures efficient power delivery, and the i-VTM4™ all-wheel drive systemenhances traction in all conditions.
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer provides a variety of powertrain options, including a turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder (300 hp) and a hybrid variant. While powerful, some drivers find the base engine less refined compared to the Pilot’s smooth V6. The Explorer also tends to have higher fuel consumption in real-world driving.
• Hyundai Palisade: Equipped with a 3.8L V6 engine producing 291 hp, the Palisade offers comparable power but is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While it delivers solid performance, it lacks the same level of transmission refinement and all-wheel-drive responsiveness found in the Pilot.

Interior Comfort and Space

• Honda Pilot: Designed with family needs in mind, the Pilot offers a spacious and adaptable cabin. With seating for up to eight passengers and an available second-row captain’s chairs option, it ensures comfort for all. Cargo space is generous, with up to 111.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, surpassing many competitors.
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer provides seating for seven with decent third-row space, but its design leans more toward a sporty, performance-oriented experience, sacrificing some practicality.
• Hyundai Palisade: The Palisade boasts a luxurious interior with high-end materials and an elegant design. However, its cargo space falls slightly behind the Pilot, making it less versatile for families needing extra room.

Technology and Safety Features

• Honda Pilot: Standard across all trims, Honda Sensing® includes advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking. The Pilot also features an intuitive infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, a large touchscreen, and an available Wi-Fi hotspot.
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer comes with Ford Co-Pilot360™, offering similar driver-assist technologies, but its infotainment interface has been noted for being less user-friendly.
• Hyundai Palisade: Hyundai’s SmartSense safety suite provides strong driver assistance features. The Palisade also features a well-designed infotainment system but lacks some of the advanced AWD technology found in the Pilot.

Fuel Efficiency and Reliability

• Honda Pilot: With fuel economy ratings of up to 27 mpg on the highway, the Pilot is efficient for its class. Honda’s reputation for reliability means lower long-term ownership costs.
• Ford Explorer: While its base engine offers decent efficiency, real-world fuel economy tends to be lower, particularly with the V6 models.
• Hyundai Palisade: The Palisade’s fuel economy is comparable to the Pilot but doesn’t match Honda’s long-term dependability.

Final Verdict: The Best All-Around SUV

Each of these SUVs offers impressive features, but the Honda Pilot emerges as the best all-around choice for families seeking a spacious, reliable, and well-equipped vehicle. It excels in interior flexibility, advanced safety, and fuel efficiency while maintaining Honda’s hallmark of durability and ease of ownership. Whether for daily commutes or long road trips, the Pilot delivers a refined and well-rounded driving experience that few competitors can match