In the highly competitive segment of midsize SUVs, two of the top options are the Honda Pilot and the Ford Explorer. Both models have some positive attributes, but for the 2023 model year, there’s something that gives the Pilot an edge. The 2023 Honda Pilot has one big advantage over the 2023 Ford Explorer: a wonderful redesign.
The 2023 Honda Pilot gets a facelift, but the 2023 Ford Explorer hasn’t had one in 3 years
In recent years, the 2023 Ford Explorer has dominated the 2023 sling Pilot on the sales charts. While the Pilot has been a solid, well-rounded family SUV, it was starting to look stale.
However, the script has been reversed for the new model year. The Pilot has a redesign that makes it much better. If you want the latest and greatest for the midsize SUV segment, then the new fourth-generation Pilot is worth taking a closer look at. By contrast, the Explorer hasn’t been redesigned in three years.
The redesigned Pilot has a more robust appearance than the previous model, with truck-like styling and a boxier shape. For a sporty feel, there are the retracted A-pillars and a long hood. Additionally, for the rear section, the midsize SUV gets a body-color roof spoiler and new LED taillights.
The 2023 Pilot offers more interior space than the 2023 Explorer
Another element of the redesign of the 2023 Honda Pilot is an increase in size. It is larger than the outgoing model. The 2023 Pilot is 3.4 inches longer, with a longer wheelbase and wider track. In addition to giving the midsize SUV more aggressive styling, the increase in size results in more interior space.
Honda claims the redesigned Pilot has best-in-class passenger space. It can accommodate up to eight passengers, up from seven by 2023 Ford Explorer. Additionally, the Pilot offers a generous amount of storage space. It has a rear cargo capacity of 22.4 cubic feet and a maximum cargo capacity of 113.7 cubic feet, compared to 18.2/87.8 cubic feet in the Explorer. Additionally, there are useful storage compartments and plenty of cup holders in the Pilot.
Also, the Pilot’s cabin is more modern and luxurious than the Explorer’s. It is technologically sophisticated with liberal use of premium features.
Features offered by the Honda Pilot, but not available on the Ford Explorer
In addition, the 2023 Pilot offers features not available on the 2023 Explorer. For a more comfortable ride, it features new body stabilizer seats, which reduce fatigue on long excursions. Also, to amplify your voice when talking to the rear passengers, it has a CabinTalk function.
In addition, the tire fill assist feature makes it easy to fill the midsize SUV with tires with air. In addition, it has a traffic sign recognition function. As you approach a traffic signal on the highway, an icon of the signal appears on the Pilot’s digital interface.
CabinTalk is standard on EX-L and above trims, while all other features are standard on all Pilot trims. Conversely, you can’t get any of these features in Explorer.
The 2023 Honda Pilot has a standout redesign, giving it a huge advantage over the 2023 Ford Explorer. When deciding which midsize SUV to buy, this is an important consideration.