If you're looking for a ride that isn't afraid of a little mud, the 2026 Ford Explorer should be on your radar. Or should it? The popular Honda Pilot gives it a run for its money, but can the Explorer trump the competition? Let's find out below!
Key Takeaways:
- Ford officially launched the Tremor trim for 2026, its most rugged Explorer model yet.
- Honda gave the Pilot a few styling and trim tweaks to keep things fresh this year.
- As of March 19, 2026, Honda Pilot trims range from $43,690 to $56,490; while Explorer trims are between $40,260 and $56,700.
A new trim is big news for the Ford Explorer in '26. The Explorer Tremor hits the trail with a lifted suspension, a Torsen limited-slip rear end, and 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires. Ford even reshaped the bumpers for better clearance on steep hills and added steel skid plates underneath for protection. ActiveX-upholstered seats with unique stitching help keep things tidy inside the cabin.
The Explorer's trim lineup and pricing are:
- Active: $40,260
- ST-Line: $46,950
- Tremor: $50,260
- Platinum: $52,760
- ST: $56,700
Honda didn't go quite as wild, but the Pilot looks a lot tougher with a bigger, squared-off grille and a new two-tone accent on the front bumper. It also made life easier by making the power tailgate and roof rails standard. As for the trims, the Touring and Elite get new 20-inch gray wheels, and the TrailSport swapped its old blue paint for Ash Green. Finally, it tweaked the steering to make it feel a bit more responsive and connected to the road.
Its model prices are:
- Sport: $43,690
- EX-L: $45,990
- TrailSport: $51,890
- Touring: $52,590
- Elite: $54,990
- Black Edition: $56,490
2026 Ford Explorer vs. the Honda Pilot: Which SUV Is Better on Tech?
The Explorer definitely has the tech edge with its 13.2-inch display. It runs the new Ford Digital Experience, which is a lot more intuitive when you're trying to find things on the go. Ford also wins the "battle of the batteries"--the Explorer is packed with eight USB ports, so even the kids in the very back can keep their tablets charged. In the Pilot, those third-row passengers are pretty much out of luck when they need a plug.
How Many Engine Options are Seen From the 2026 Ford Explorer?
Ford gives you two very different paths: a 300-hp four-cylinder or a 400-hp twin-turbo V6. Honda sticks with one reliable option--a 285-hp 3.5-liter V6. Both offer a 10-speed automatic with rear- or all-wheel drive.
Is the 2026 Honda Pilot or Ford Explorer Better for Towing?
Both SUVs can tow 5,000 pounds, but there's a catch with the Honda: you only get that full 5,000-pound rating if you pay extra for AWD. If you stick with the standard Front-Wheel Drive Pilot, you have a 3,500-pound limit.
Powertrains and Towing
| 2026 Ford Explorer |
2026 Honda Pilot |
| 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbo four; 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 |
3.5-liter V6 |
| 10-speed automatic; standard RWD and available AWD |
10-speed automatic; standard RWD and available AWD |
| Max towing capacity of 5,000 pounds |
Max towing capacity of 5,000 pounds |
Is the 2026 Honda Pilot Better than the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The Pilot is certainly a great choice, but the Explorer offers more bang for your buck and gives you more ways to build the exact SUV your family needs. It's the smarter pick for 2026. Contact us today at Karl Flammer Ford to see it for yourself!