Was wondering what the thoughts are of the new Explorer compared to the new Pilot. I have to say, I am very impressed with what Ford has done here. The
ONLY thing I am disappointed about is the lack of cargo volume. They lengthened it, and widened it and somehow lost cargo volume. Other than that very nicely styled, amazing tech features, lots of bang for your buck.
Compare the Pilot Touring to the Limited Explorer:
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I know its a newer vehicle and that nobody has done any extensive reviews yet. But I think Ford has completely leapfrogged the Honda Pilot with this. Don't jump on my case yet.....but the v6 has 40 more HP, more torque, real life towing capabilities and
should return decent mpg. Terrain management system is a nice feature (admittedly probably no more capable than 4 wheel on Pilot).
The tech features are heads and shoulders above what Honda offers. Powerfold third row seat is very convenient. A remote start/climate control feature standard on the Limited which adjusts the temp and seat heater/coolers to the temperature outside (if cold puts heat on, etc). A nicer looking, updated and better interface for car entertainment (music, etc) even without the nav option. Better voice activated system with Sync technology (which Ford has been giving users firmware updates for FREE). HD radio and iTunes tagging, and to round that off a navigation system that actually looks and performs with the best of them (i.e.-3D views, traffic info, weather, gas station locations and prices, live sports scores and schedules, and theater locations with movie listings and times). And this is all controllable through steering wheel functions too. From Edmunds.com "Ten-thousand voice commands are preprogrammed, allowing drivers to make phone calls, play music and find restaurants and stores from behind the wheel. Simply saying, "I'm hungry" or "Find shoe store" is enough information for the system to start providing destinations."
The styling on the exterior and interior is very good looking. The materials look high grade, similar to what you would find in the new Taurus. optional 20" wheels (seems some people like them) is a pretty nice feature. Metal speaker grills on the interior with wood (looking probably) trim give the plastics a break. Nicely shaped cabin as well with the dash sweeping from and around you.
And the LImited also starts at about $1,500 below the starting price of the touring.
Please dont jump on my case for bringing this out, but I really think Honda might be in trouble with some future sales. The only thing Honda might have over this is a
little better reliability rating, which Ford is sure getting rid of that gap. I do wonder why the walked away from the Eddie Bauer line. It was extremely popular.
Thoughts?