If you're looking for a family hauler that doesn't mind getting a little dirty, have you considered the 2026 Ford Explorer? While the Honda Pilot remains a steady competitor, Ford's latest updates (especially the debut of the Tremor) push it into a new level of capability. Let's see how these two giants of the three-row SUV world stack up for this model year.
Key Takeaways:
- The 2026 lineup introduces the Tremor trim, the most rugged Explorer Ford has ever built.
- Honda gives the Pilot a few cosmetic and trim-specific tweaks for this year.
- Honda Pilot trims start at $43,690 and go up to $56,490; Explorer trims range from $40,260 to $56,700, as of March 3, 2026.
What Changes Have Been Made to the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The biggest change for the Ford lineup is the addition of the Explorer Tremor. It's ready for the trail with its lifted suspension, a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, and 18-inch wheels with all-terrain rubber. Ford even went as far as redesigning the bumpers to help with approach angles on steep inclines and adding steel skid plates underneath. Inside, the automaker's "ActiveX" seating with unique stitching makes it easier to handle mud and dirt.
Explorer trims are slightly less expensive than the Pilot:
- Active: $40,260
- Active w/100A Pkg: $40,260
- Active w/200A Pkg: $42,380
- ST-Line: $46,950
- Tremor: $50,260
- Platinum: $52,760
- ST: $56,700
Honda gives the 2026 Pilot some nice tweaks. The front end is more squared-off with a bigger grille and a two-tone rectangular accent on the lower bumper. The automaker also introduced Solar Silver and Smoke Blue paint colors to the line, and a power tailgate and roof rails are now standard equipment across all trims. As for trim-specific changes, Touring and Elite models get sharp 20-inch gray wheels. The TrailSport swapped out its old blue color for an Ash Green shade. Honda also made the steering feel more responsive and connected.
Its models are:
- Sport: $43,690
- EX-L: $45,990
- TrailSport: $51,890
- Touring: $52,590
- Elite: $54,990
- Black Edition: $56,490
Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Offer Better Technology Features than the 2026 Honda Pilot?
The Explorer pulls ahead in this category with a larger 13.2-inch display running the Ford Digital Experience, a system designed to be more intuitive for navigating daily menus. Ford also dominates the "battle of the batteries" by outfitting the Explorer with eight USB ports. This ensures that even the kids in the third row stay powered up, whereas the Pilot leaves those way-back passengers without their own dedicated charging spots.
Honda standardizes the 12.3-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone integration across all Pilot models. The base trim now features the 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster that was formerly only on the most expensive trims. Sound systems range from a 7-speaker base setup to a 12-speaker Bose system in the top-tier models.
How Many Engine Options Does Ford Offer for the 2026 Explorer?
Ford gives you two very different paths in the Explorer-- the 300-hp 2.3-liter EcoBoost and a 400-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 (standard on ST, optional on Tremor and Platinum). In comparison, the Pilot features a gas engine, a 3.5-liter V-6 delivering 285 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic. It's front-wheel drive by default, but you can add all-wheel drive.
The Explorer tows up to 5,000 pounds. The max towing capacity of the Honda Pilot is also 5,000 pounds, but that's limited to all-wheel-drive models. Front-wheel-drive Pilots can tow up to 3500 pounds.
Powertrains and Towing
| 2026 Ford Explorer |
2026 Honda Pilot |
| 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbo four or 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 |
3.5-liter V6 |
| 10-speed automatic with standard RWD and available AWD |
10-speed automatic with standard RWD and available AWD |
| Maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds |
10-speed automatic with standard RWD and available AWD |
Why Is the 2026 Ford Explorer better than the 2026 Honda Pilot?
The Pilot is a fine choice if you want a quiet, predictable cruiser, but the Explorer simply offers more value for your money. Whether you're looking for the raw power of the 400-hp V6, the rugged capability of the new Tremor, or a better entry price on the base trims, Ford gives you more ways to build the exact SUV your family needs. With better tech and more charging power for every row, the Explorer is the smarter pick for 2026. Contact Brighton Ford today to see it for yourself!