What To Know
- The base engine gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the twin-turbo V6 gets 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
- The V6 model gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, while the hybrid model gets an impressive 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
- The Highlander also offers a variety of features and amenities, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, heated and cooled seats, and a premium audio system.
When it comes to choosing a midsize SUV, the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander are two of the most popular options on the market. Both vehicles offer a spacious interior, plenty of features, and strong performance. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Ford Explorer against the Toyota Highlander to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Handling
Engine Options and Power:
- Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers a range of engine options, including a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6, and a 3.3-liter hybrid V6. The base engine produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the twin-turbo V6 generates 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid system combines a 3.3-liter V6 with an electric motor for a total output of 318 horsepower.
- Toyota Highlander: The Highlander offers two engine options: a 3.5-liter V6 and a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid. The V6 produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid system combines the four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a total output of 243 horsepower.
Fuel Efficiency:
- Ford Explorer: The Explorer’s fuel efficiency varies depending on the engine option. The base engine gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the twin-turbo V6 gets 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The hybrid model achieves an impressive 27 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
- Toyota Highlander: The Highlander’s fuel efficiency also varies depending on the engine option. The V6 model gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, while the hybrid model gets an impressive 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Handling and Ride Quality:
- Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers a comfortable ride quality, with a suspension that absorbs bumps and road imperfections well. The handling is responsive and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. However, the steering can feel somewhat light at times.
- Toyota Highlander: The Highlander also offers a comfortable ride quality, with a suspension that provides good isolation from road noise and vibrations. The handling is stable and predictable, making it easy to drive. The steering is well-weighted and provides good feedback.
Interior and Comfort
Seating and Space:
- Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers seating for up to seven passengers, with three rows of seats. The front seats are spacious and supportive, and the second row provides ample legroom and headroom. The third row is best suited for children or occasional use, as it can be somewhat cramped.
- Toyota Highlander: The Highlander also offers seating for up to seven passengers, with three rows of seats. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and the second row provides generous legroom and headroom. The third row is more spacious than the Explorer’s, making it more suitable for adults.
Cargo Space:
- Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 47.9 cubic feet behind the second row, and 87.8 cubic feet with both rows folded down.
- Toyota Highlander: The Highlander offers 16.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet behind the second row, and 84.3 cubic feet with both rows folded down.
Features and Amenities:
- Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers a range of features and amenities, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, heated and cooled seats, and a premium audio system.
- Toyota Highlander: The Highlander also offers a variety of features and amenities, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, heated and cooled seats, and a premium audio system.
Safety and Reliability
Safety Features:
- Ford Explorer: The Explorer comes standard with a suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
- Toyota Highlander: The Highlander also comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
Reliability:
- Ford Explorer: The Explorer has a good reliability rating, with an average of 3.5 out of 5 stars from J.D. Power.
- Toyota Highlander: The Highlander has an excellent reliability rating, with an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from J.D. Power.
Pricing and Value
Starting Price:
- Ford Explorer: The Explorer has a starting price of $33,245.
- Toyota Highlander: The Highlander has a starting price of $34,970.
Value for Money:
- Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers a good value for money, with a range of features and capabilities at a competitive price.
- Toyota Highlander: The Highlander offers excellent value for money, with a long list of standard features, good fuel efficiency, and a reputation for reliability.
Which SUV is Right for You?
The Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander are both excellent choices for midsize SUV buyers. The Explorer offers strong performance, a spacious interior, and a range of features, while the Highlander offers excellent fuel efficiency, a comfortable ride, and a reputation for reliability. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Summary: Making the Right Choice
Choosing between the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander can be a tough decision, as both SUVs have a lot to offer. Consider your priorities carefully, whether it’s performance, fuel efficiency, space, or features. Take both vehicles for a test drive to get a feel for their handling and ride quality. Ultimately, the SUV that best meets your needs and preferences is the one that deserves a spot in your driveway.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which SUV has better fuel efficiency, the Ford Explorer or the Toyota Highlander?
A: The Toyota Highlander has better fuel efficiency than the Ford Explorer, especially with the hybrid model. The Highlander hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Explorer hybrid gets 27 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which SUV has more cargo space, the Ford Explorer or the Toyota Highlander?
A: The Ford Explorer has more cargo space than the Toyota Highlander. The Explorer offers 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 47.9 cubic feet behind the second row, and 87.8 cubic feet with both rows folded down. The Highlander offers 16.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet behind the second row, and 84.3 cubic feet with both rows folded down.
Q: Which SUV has a better safety rating, the Ford Explorer or the Toyota Highlander?
A: Both the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander have good safety ratings. The Explorer received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, while the Highlander received a 4-star overall safety rating. However, the Highlander received a slightly higher score for rollover resistance.