I own an explo 3.5 and have driven the pilot in the US about 4 yrs ago. Following your matrix :

1. Reliability - Honda is much better than Ford. I got a CRV 2004 and still running smooth with little maintenance lang while my 2007
escape has it's fair share of parts replacement.

2. Interior space - hands down explorer.

3. Gas consumption - with those cars your looking at, why bothered by gas consumption. If consumption is a concern, there's the Alto, Mirage etc...

But if power & responsiveness is what you want, go for explo.