Trying to decide between the 2025 Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot? We’re here to break down the pros and cons of driving each three-row crossover SUV in Central Florida!
Key Takeaways
- Although these midsize SUVs are similarly priced, the Explorer is the most budget-friendly option.
- While both models are comfortable, each SUV has its own special perks.
- Choose the Explorer for sporty capabilities and up to 400 horsepower!
- Ford’s midsize SUV can save you the most at the pump, making it the best choice for families on the run.
Not only do these three-row SUVs offer plenty of space for your family adventures, but they also come at very competitive rates. The entry-level 2025 Explorer (starting at $39,785*) is the best deal, helping you keep more money stowed away for a rainy day. However, the 2025 Pilot (from $40,200*) shouldn’t raise your monthly payment too much by comparison.
*Price as of 4/24/25.
Everyday Comfort & Convenience: It’s a Tie!
There are slightly different reasons to love each of these midsize crossovers. When it comes to soft, supportive seating, the Pilot has the edge. Since adults can fit comfortably in every row, Honda’s SUV is the best choice for carpooling. We’re also impressed with the Pilot’s AC system! With air vents in every row, you can keep sticky summer weather outside the cabin, where it belongs. Then again, the Pilot’s entry-level tech lineup — including a 7-inch central touchscreen — feels sparse next to the competition. While these midsize SUVs share wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, they don’t have much else in common!
With up to seven well-padded seats (or six if you select second-row captain’s chairs), the Explorer is also great for family hauling. However, its third row seats are designed for younger passengers, and some adults may wish the seat bottoms were raised a little higher from the floor. However, the Explorer takes a solid lead over the Pilot when it comes to convenience features! Unlike its Honda counterpart, Ford’s midsize SUV is available with hands-free driving capabilities with the BlueCruise system. And the new Explorer also introduces an all-new Google-based infotainment system, Ford Digital Experience (along with a standard 13.2-inch central touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster)!
Sporty Power: 2025 Ford Explorer
If you’re shopping for a family SUV that can handle your wild Florida adventures, you can’t go wrong with the Explorer! Not only does this midsize model deliver more power than the competition, but it also comes standard with everything you need to tow up to 5,000 pounds. Plus, the Explorer’s unique rear-wheel-drive platform makes it more fun to drive, on-road and off! And speaking of off-road terrain, don’t forget to add all-wheel drive to your SUV. When you’re exploring Florida’s wide-ranging preserves and state parks, it’s bound to come in handy!
2025 Ford Explorer Powertrain Specs
- 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine (300 hp, 311 lb-ft)
- Optional 3.0L turbo V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
The 2025 Honda Pilot certainly feels at home around Winter Haven! Its smooth, quiet performance is perfect for around-town cruising. But this front-wheel-drive SUV isn’t nearly as rugged as its Ford counterpart — a characteristic that may keep you from leaving the beaten path. And while the Honda Pilot can also tow a boat trailer weighing up to 5,000 pounds, this is only true of all-wheel-drive models! Front-wheel-drive Pilots can only tow up to 3,500 pounds.
2025 Honda Pilot Powertrain Specs
- 3.5L V6 (285 hp, 262 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
Fuel-Efficient Performance: 2025 Ford Explorer
Surprisingly, the more muscular Explorer is also the most efficient option! Choose this midsize SUV to pair its swift, rugged capabilities with up to 24 mpg combined (20 city/29 highway). Even equipped with the more powerful V6 engine, EPA ratings are still pretty impressive, reaching 21 mpg combined (18 city/25 highway) with either rear- or all-wheel drive!
Meanwhile, the 2025 Honda Pilot earns up to 22 mpg combined (19 city/27 highway) with its much less impressive V6 engine. Equipped with all-wheel drive, the 285-horsepower the Pilot barely does better than the ultra-quick, 400-horsepower Explorer, earning 21 mpg combined (19 city/25 highway). Quite the disparity!
Your Family’s New SUV
Now that you’ve perused our Florida 2025 Ford Explorer vs Honda Pilot guide, which model will you choose? If your family looks forward to weekends on the lake, there’s no better option than the newly updated Explorer! Not only will you and your loved ones enjoy roomy comfort and high-tech convenience, but it’s easy to bring your boat along for the ride. Take your family road trips to the next level — visit us at Jarrett-Gordon Ford of Winter Haven to test-drive the best midsize SUV in Florida.