2022 Ford Expedition vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2022 Ford Expedition was replete with design updates, creating a more modern and invigorated exterior. It sported a new grille, headlights, and bumper at the front, coupled with updated taillights, tailgate trim, and a rear bumper. The redesigned wheels added a fresh edge to the entire model lineup, spanning various trim levels including XL STX, XLT, Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum. There was also the introduction of the off-road-ready Timberline trim, appealing to adventurous souls with its distinct features such as 4WD, all-terrain tires, and suspension modifications. The Stealth Edition packages, exclusive to the Limited trim, stood out with black 22-inch wheels and blacked-out exterior trim.

The interior of the Expedition offered substantial upgrades, highlighted by the new Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems. A 15.5-inch touchscreen display became a focal point, and a 12.4-inch digital instrumentation display was standard on our test vehicle, which was a Stone Blue Metallic Limited Stealth Edition. Quality materials and impressive tech, although somewhat diminished by the use of F-150 pickup-grade plastic trim, rounded out the interior aesthetics.

Conversely, the 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a transformative redesign, embracing a rugged and substantial appearance. It grew bigger than its predecessor, boasting a 3.4-inch increase in length, up to 1.5 inches in width, and 0.8 inches in height. These changes synergized well with the all-terrain-ready TrailSport model, which featured legitimate off-road enhancements like a taller ride height, unique wheels, and underbody skid plates.

Inside, the Pilot took a more conventional styling approach, emphasizing functionality and versatility. Higher trims displayed an attractive and utilitarian aesthetic, providing a plethora of storage solutions and logically placed controls. Despite not being as visually impactful as others in Honda's lineup, the Pilot's interior gained a favorable nod for its practicality over sheer aesthetics.

The 2022 Ford Expedition carried a robust powertrain in the form of a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. While our test model yielded 380 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, higher trims with the Stealth Edition Performance Package could push that up to 440 hp and 510 lb-ft. Rear-wheel drive was standard, flowing through a 10-speed automatic transmission, with 4WD as an option. The Expedition could tow between 9,000 to 9,300 pounds based on configurations. However, its fuel economy left much to be desired, with an observed rate of 16.2 mpg against a combined rating of 18 mpg. In terms of driving dynamics, while powerful, the Expedition’s sport-tuned suspension and large tires contributed to a somewhat harsh ride quality, especially noticeable on imperfect pavements.

In comparison, the 2023 Honda Pilot introduced an all-new 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission. Standard FWD, with AWD as an option or standard on higher trims, ensured this SUV stayed versatile. Accelerating in the Pilot felt responsive, and the engine’s hum was pleasing yet not overpowering. The brake pedal was appropriately soft for family duties, and the ride quality leaned towards comfort rather than sporty thrills. The TrailSport trim added off-road appeal without sacrificing on-road composure.

The Ford Expedition earned top marks for its sheer comfort and spaciousness. Easy ingress and egress were thanks to power running boards, and seating across all rows offered ample room and visibility. The second-row captain’s chairs provided significant comfort, although toe room was a bit snug. Third-row access was straightforward, and even the rearmost passengers found adequate legroom. In terms of cargo space, the standard-length Expedition offered 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 57.5 cubic feet with the third-row folded, and 104.6 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. Opting for the Expedition Max variant further increased cargo capacity.

The Honda Pilot focused on practical interior solutions. Although the entry-level trims featured lower touchscreen sizes, higher trims like the Elite offered a nine-inch display with ample connectivity options. Clever storage compartments and a stowable second-row seat defined its interior utility. The second row was spacious, comfortably accommodating adults, while the third row, though less supportive, was still viable for short journeys. The Pilot’s cargo space was commendable with 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row, growing to 60.1 cubic feet with the second row down, and maxing out at 114.3 cubic feet with all seats folded flat.

The 2022 Ford Expedition was at the forefront of modern technology with its Sync 4 and optional Sync 4A systems. Both systems featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, natural voice recognition, and various connectivity options. The Sync 4A system, with its 15.5-inch touchscreen, was sophisticated yet had occasional operational quirks, such as interaction issues with Apple CarPlay and accidental activation of the defroster function. An optional rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV enhanced the appeal for passengers.

The 2023 Honda Pilot, particularly in the EX-L trim and above, included an expanded suite of technological features. These encompassed a larger touchscreen, wireless phone connectivity, and a multi-view camera system. Higher trims boasted navigation, Bose premium audio, and Honda’s CabinTalk PA system to ease in-car communication. The TrailWatch camera system in the TrailSport and Elite trims catered specifically to off-road enthusiasts.

For 2022, the Ford Expedition’s safety was bolstered by the Co-Pilot360 packages, incorporating features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Higher trims benefited from additions such as adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and BlueCruise hands-free driving technology. While adaptive cruise control performed smoothly, the lane-centering assist occasionally fell short in maintaining driver confidence, particularly in dense traffic and curvy roads.

The 2023 Honda Pilot expectedly achieved top safety scores with advanced Honda Sensing safety features across all trims. These included forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, traffic-jam assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims benefited from additional features such as low-speed automatic braking and multiple camera systems. The Pilot’s safety systems functioned accurately during evaluations, with no false alarms and smooth operation of adaptive cruise control, enhancing overall driver confidence.