Comparing the 2021 Ford Explorer vs. the Honda Pilot makes sense given the parallel features and abilities these SUVs share. If you need three rows in the cabin to support your family around West Point, King William, and Williamsburg, the Explorer and Pilot are likely high on your list. Each model is safe and reliable, too. So then, how can you pick one over the other? As the Explorer vs. Pilot comparison developed at West Point Ford will show, there are a few key differences between the two.
Maximum Towing Capacity
While the storage capacities of the 2021 Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot are immense, you may still want to bring a trailer along for extra space. Or perhaps you have a boat for weekend trips to the cabin. No matter the reason, if you want to tow, then you want the Ford Explorer.
The maximum towing capacity of the Honda Pilot is impressive at 5,000 pounds. In the Explorer, its hybrid 3.3L V6 engine can tow upwards of 5,000 pounds as well. However, if you need even more capability for your weekend camping trips, the Ford Explorer can help.
If you opt for the 2.3L engine in the Explorer, your towing capability raises to 5,300 pounds. And finally, the Explorer has a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds when you opt for the 3.0L V6 engine!
Engine Lineups
Clearly, the type of engine under the hood of the Pilot and Explorer will alter their capabilities. So what kind of engines does each SUV offer? If you choose the Pilot, you're choosing the V6 engine, the only available powerplant. It's a capable V6, generating 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, but it hardly stacks up to the Explorer engine lineup.
The base engine for the Explorer, a turbocharged 2.3L, is already stronger than the Pilot, as it generates 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. There's also that 3.3L hybrid for those seeking greater fuel economy. Choosing this eco-friendly powertrain doesn't mean sacrificing power, though, since it still produces 318 net horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque.
And finally, the 3.0L V6 of the 2021 Explorer boasts at least 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque.
2021 Ford Explorer ST is a Different Kind of Beast
If you know you need three rows to support the family, but you prefer not to compromise on general excitement and engagement behind the wheel, the 2021 Ford Explorer ST is for you. The Explorer ST is a performance-oriented trim, a kind of trim level that the Pilot doesn't offer.
The ST is outfitted with the 3.0L V6 engine, but it is specially retuned to generate 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This version of the SUV will reach a maximum speed of 143 MPH. As if that weren't enough, it also comes with sleek interior touches like City Silver accent stitching and leather seating surfaces with micro perforations.
For 2021, the Explorer Outpaces the Pilot
The sheer performance and capability of the 2021 Ford Explorer make it a great choice for drivers around the King William, Williamsburg, and West Point areas. You can test the Explorer yourself by stopping by West Point Ford!
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