Compare Midsize 3-Row SUVs in Cincinnati: 2022 Ford Explorer vs. Honda Pilot, Chevy Traverse, and Hyundai Palisade
The New 2022 Ford Explorer Is the Midsize SUV You've Been Waiting For
The Ford Explorer was one of the first models to help usher in the modern SUV era when it first debuted in 1991. Today, it continues to excel in the growing segment it helped popularize more than three decades ago. The Explorer offers spacious and versatile accommodations, potent and engaging performance, and a wealth of amenities, making it one of the most well-rounded models in its class. Here's a quick overview of how it compares to three of its prominent competitors.
Ford Explorer vs. Honda Pilot
- Performance: The 2022 Explorer's base 2.3-liter turbo-four engine (300 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque) outguns the Honda Pilot's 3.5-liter V6 (380 hp, 262 lb-ft) while remaining slightly more efficient (24 vs. 23 mpg combined). The Explorer also comes standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive, and trailer-sway control, allowing you to tow 5,300 pounds in any gas configuration (5,000 for hybrid). The Pilot limits towing to 3,500 (with accessory towing equipment) in its front-wheel-drive configuration. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds, but only with all-wheel drive.
- Accommodations: Passengers are sure to appreciate the extra personal space provided by the Ford Explorer, as it offers more headroom and legroom in all three rows than the Honda Pilot. The Explorer also provides more room for your things, with 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row and 87.8 cubic feet of max cargo capacity. The Pilot's cargo measures 16.5 with all seats in use and 83.9 with all rear seats folded.
- Value: The Ford Explorer offers more features for less, with a $3,585 lower starting MSRP than the Honda Pilot. Fairfield families can get a nicely equipped Explorer XLT for $1,085 less than a base-model Pilot.
Ford Explorer vs. Chevrolet Traverse
- Performance: The Explorer's 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine (300 hp, 310 lb-ft) makes slightly less horsepower than the Chevy Traverse's 3.6-liter V6 (310 hp, 266 lb-ft). However, the Explorer's significant torque advantage, 10-speed transmission, rear-wheel drive, and standard trailer-sway control allow it to tow up to 5,300 pounds. The Traverse can only tow 1,500 pounds in its base configuration. The Traverse's maximum 5,000lb tow rating requires optional trailering equipment, which is only standard on its highest trim level.
- Standard Features: While both models offer well-equipped base tiers, the Ford Explorer offers more features for $1,650 less (MRSP). The Explorer comes standard with a power liftgate, an 8-way power driver's seat, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert—all optional extras on the Chevy Traverse.
- Driver Aids: Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ is available for the Explorer XLT and standard on all higher trims. It equips Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering, Evasive Steering Assist, and Speed Sign Recognition. The Traverse offers basic adaptive cruise control, but it costs more, as it's only available for the LT Leather trim and higher.
Ford Explorer vs. Hyundai Palisade
- Performance: The Ford Explorer's base powertrain (300 hp, 310 lb-ft; 24 mpg combined) is more powerful and efficient than the Hyundai Palisade's (291 hp, 262 lb-ft; 22 mpg combined). It can also tow up to 5,300 pounds compared to the Palisade's 1,650-pound standard tow rating (optional towing equipment needed for 5,000-pound max capacity). The Explorer also delivers more engaging driving dynamics thanks to its standard rear-wheel drive and responsive 10-speed automatic transmission.
- Standard Features: While both models come standard with advanced driver aids and touchscreen smartphone integration, the Explorer includes tri-zone automatic climate control, a power liftgate, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. These all cost more on the Palisade.
- Hybrid: The Ford Explorer offers multiple engine options, including a 3.3-liter V6 hybrid (318 hp, 322 lb-ft) that gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined in rear-wheel drive. The Palisade doesn't offer an optional powertrain.
Test-Drive the 2022 Ford Explorer near Hamilton and West Chester, OH
Reach out to Kerry Ford today for more information about the new Ford Explorer and its available configurations and financing opportunities. And if you'd like to see for yourself what separates the Explorer from the competition, we welcome you to visit our Ford dealership in Cincinnati for a test drive. We'd love to give you a tour.
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Kerry Ford Inc
155 West Kemper
Cincinnati, OH 45246
- Sales: (513) 671-6400
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