2026 Ford Explorer vs. 2026 Honda Pilot
in Huron, SD
The 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Honda Pilot give families two three-row SUVs with versatile interiors, available all-wheel drive, and towing capability. The Explorer features a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, with an available 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 generating 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft. The Honda Pilot uses a 3.5-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
For drivers in Huron, Mitchell, Aberdeen, Redfield, and surrounding South Dakota communities, choosing between these SUVs depends on performance, seating flexibility, cargo space, technology, and travel needs. At Iverson Ford in Huron, we help shoppers explore the Explorer and compare its features with competing three-row SUVs.
2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Honda Pilot Key Highlights
| Feature | 2026 Ford Explorer | 2026 Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Standard engine | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 3.5L V6 |
| Standard output | 300 hp / 310 lb-ft | 285 hp / 262 lb-ft |
| Available engine | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 3.5L V6 |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Standard drivetrain | RWD | 2WD |
| Available drivetrain | AWD | i-VTM4 AWD |
| Maximum cargo volume | Up to 85.8 cu. ft. | Up to 87.0 cu. ft. behind first row on most trims |
| Maximum towing | 5,000 lbs. | 5,000 lbs. with AWD |
| Seating | 6 or 7 | 7 or 8 |
Specifications and equipment vary by trim and configuration.
2026 Ford Explorer Delivers Turbocharged Performance
The Explorer pairs its standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Drivers seeking additional performance can select the available 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 on eligible trims. Rear-wheel drive is standard on most configurations, while all-wheel drive is available and standard on the Tremor.
2026 Ford Explorer Performance Highlights
- 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder producing 300 hp and 310 lb-ft.
- Available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 producing 400 hp and 415 lb-ft.
- Standard 10-speed automatic transmission.
- Standard rear-wheel drive on applicable trims.
- Available all-wheel drive.
- Maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
2026 Honda Pilot Performance Highlights
- 3.5L V6 producing 285 hp and 262 lb-ft.
- Standard 10-speed automatic transmission.
- Standard two-wheel drive on Sport and EX-L.
- Available i-VTM4 AWD, standard on TrailSport and higher trims.
- Maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds on properly equipped AWD models.
2026 Ford Explorer Provides Adaptable Three-Row Space
The Explorer accommodates six or seven occupants, depending on the second-row configuration. Its three-row cabin offers 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and up to 85.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume on specified trims. Available PowerFold third-row seats make it easier to adjust the cabin for passengers or larger items.
2026 Ford Explorer Passenger and Cargo Highlights
- Six- or seven-passenger seating.
- Three-row cabin layout.
- 16.3 cu. ft. behind the third row.
- Up to 85.8 cu. ft. of cargo capacity on applicable trims.
- Available PowerFold third-row seating.
- Available second-row bench seating.
- Up to 152.9 cu. ft. of total passenger volume.
2026 Honda Pilot Passenger and Cargo Highlights
- Seven- or eight-passenger seating, depending on configuration.
- Three-row seating.
- Up to 87.0 cu. ft. behind the first row on most trims.
- Multi-function second-row seating with a removable center seat.
- 40.8 inches of second-row legroom.
- 32.5 inches of third-row legroom.
2026 Ford Explorer Integrates Digital Technology
The Explorer features a 13.2-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Ford Digital Experience supports connected infotainment, while wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ simplify smartphone integration. Available BlueCruise, a 360-degree camera, and a B&O Sound System add convenience on appropriately equipped models.
2026 Ford Explorer Technology Highlights
- 13.2-inch touchscreen.
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
- Ford Digital Experience.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.
- Available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving.
- Available 360-degree camera and B&O audio.
- 5G connectivity with Wi-Fi hotspot capability.
- Available Ford Co-Pilot360™ driver-assistance technologies.
2026 Honda Pilot Technology Highlights
- 12.3-inch color touchscreen.
- Google built-in.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.
- Available Bose premium audio.
- Available head-up display.
- Available multiview camera with TrailWatch.
- Honda Sensing® driver-assistance technologies.
2026 Ford Explorer Supports Everyday Travel Around Huron
The Explorer combines three-row seating, turbocharged performance, available AWD, and towing capability for everyday driving and family travel across South Dakota. It can accommodate school transportation, shopping, road trips, and recreational equipment while providing the flexibility of a midsize SUV.
Iverson Ford serves drivers from Huron, Mitchell, Aberdeen, Redfield, Sioux Falls, and neighboring communities. Our team can help you explore Explorer configurations for your family's transportation and recreation needs.
What Do Automotive Experts Say About the 2026 Ford Explorer?
Car and Driver highlights the Explorer's cabin ergonomics, available V6 performance, and technology in its evaluation of the 2026 model:
"Comfy and ergonomically sound cabin, available with a full-bodied V-6, praiseworthy tech."
What Are 2026 Ford Explorer Owners Saying?
A 2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line owner reviewing the SUV on Edmunds praised its technology, driving characteristics, and styling:
"The tech in this vehicle is amazing. The ride and handling are also great."
FAQs
How much horsepower does the 2026 Ford Explorer produce?
The standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 generates 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft.
Does the 2026 Ford Explorer offer AWD?
Yes. All-wheel drive is available on applicable trims and standard on the Explorer Tremor.
How many passengers can the 2026 Ford Explorer accommodate?
The Explorer seats six or seven passengers, depending on its second-row configuration.
What technology comes with the 2026 Explorer?
Standard technology includes a 13.2-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.
Where can I find the 2026 Ford Explorer in Huron, SD?
Iverson Ford is located at 2500 Dakota Avenue S., Huron, SD 57350. Contact our team to check inventory and schedule a test drive.
Explore the 2026 Ford Explorer at Iverson Ford
At Iverson Ford, we help drivers compare Explorer trims, engine options, seating arrangements, cargo capacity, towing capability, and available technology. Visit us at 2500 Dakota Avenue S. in Huron, South Dakota, to review available models, arrange a test drive, discuss financing, and explore trade-in options.
