Ford Explorer Vs. Rx 350: Which Suv Reigns Supreme In 2023? Uncover The Ultimate Champion!

The Ford Explorer and Lexus RX 350 stand as two prominent contenders in the midsize SUV segment, captivating car enthusiasts with their blend of rugged capability, refined luxury, and advanced technology. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these exceptional vehicles, scrutinizing their key features, specifications, and overall driving experience to determine which emerges as the superior choice.

Performance and Efficiency:

1. Powertrain Options:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers a diverse range of powertrain options, including a turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, a hybrid powertrain combining a 3.3-liter V6 engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 318 horsepower, and a potent 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine generating an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.

• Lexus RX 350: The RX 350 solely relies on a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, producing 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. While it lacks the variety of the Explorer’s powertrain lineup, the RX 350’s V6 engine is renowned for its smoothness and reliability.

2. Fuel Economy:

• Ford Explorer: Fuel efficiency varies depending on the chosen powertrain. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the hybrid powertrain delivers an impressive 27 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, despite its exhilarating performance, returns a respectable 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

• Lexus RX 350: The RX 350, with its singular powertrain, manages an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. While not as efficient as the Explorer’s hybrid powertrain, the RX 350’s fuel economy remains commendable for a midsize SUV.

Interior Comfort and Convenience:

1. Cabin Space and Design:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer’s spacious cabin offers ample room for up to seven passengers, with comfortable seating and generous legroom in all three rows. The interior design is modern and functional, featuring a user-friendly infotainment system and high-quality materials.

• Lexus RX 350: The RX 350’s cabin exudes a sense of luxury and refinement, with premium materials and meticulous attention to detail. It provides ample space for five passengers, with supportive seats and a well-appointed dashboard. However, the third row, available in some models, is best suited for occasional use due to its limited legroom.

2. Infotainment and Connectivity:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer’s SYNC® 4 infotainment system boasts a large touchscreen display, intuitive controls, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. It also offers a premium Bang & Olufsen® sound system for an immersive audio experience.

• Lexus RX 350: The RX 350’s infotainment system features a user-friendly interface, voice control, and smartphone connectivity through Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. It also includes a premium Mark Levinson® sound system for exceptional audio quality.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features:

1. Standard Safety Features:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. It also offers advanced driver assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control and lane centering assist.

• Lexus RX 350: The RX 350 also boasts a robust array of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additionally, it offers a panoramic view monitor for enhanced visibility and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection.

2. Optional Safety Features:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers additional safety features as options, such as evasive steering assist, intersection assist, and active park assist. These features provide enhanced protection and convenience for drivers.

• Lexus RX 350: The RX 350 also provides a range of optional safety features, including a head-up display, night vision system, and rear cross-traffic braking. These features further elevate the vehicle’s safety capabilities.

Off-Road Capability:

1. Terrain Management System:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer features an intelligent Terrain Management System with various drive modes tailored for different terrains, including sand, mud, and snow. This system optimizes traction and handling, enhancing the vehicle’s off-road capabilities.

• Lexus RX 350: The RX 350, primarily designed for on-road driving, does not offer a dedicated off-road terrain management system. Its all-wheel-drive system provides improved traction on slippery surfaces, but it is not intended for serious off-road adventures.

Towing and Payload Capacity:

1. Towing Capacity:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer’s towing capacity varies depending on the chosen powertrain. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine can tow up to 5,300 pounds, the hybrid powertrain can tow up to 5,000 pounds, and the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine boasts an impressive towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds.

• Lexus RX 350: The RX 350’s towing capacity is rated at 3,500 pounds, which is sufficient for light towing needs such as small trailers or jet skis. However, it falls short compared to the Explorer’s more robust towing capabilities.

2. Payload Capacity:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers a payload capacity ranging from 1,500 to 1,800 pounds, depending on the chosen powertrain and trim level. This allows it to carry a substantial amount of cargo and equipment.

• Lexus RX 350: The RX 350’s payload capacity is rated at 1,200 pounds, which is adequate for everyday errands and light hauling tasks. However, it may be limiting for those requiring a vehicle with a higher payload capacity.

Pricing and Trims:

1. Base Price:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer’s base price starts at around $33,000 for the XLT trim. It offers a well-equipped cabin with a range of standard features and the choice of various powertrain options.

• Lexus RX 350: The RX 350’s base price is higher, starting at around $45,000 for the Standard trim. It includes a more luxurious interior, a comprehensive suite of safety features, and a refined driving experience.

2. Trim Levels and Options:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers a variety of trim levels, including XLT, Limited, ST, and Platinum, each with its own unique features and amenities. Buyers can also choose from various packages and options to customize their vehicle.

• Lexus RX 350: The RX 350 also offers multiple trim levels, including Standard, Premium, Luxury, and F Sport, each providing different levels of luxury, technology, and performance features.

What’s the Verdict?

The Ford Explorer and Lexus RX 350 represent distinct approaches to the midsize SUV segment, catering to different preferences and needs. The Explorer excels in terms of versatility, offering a diverse range of powertrain options, impressive towing and payload capacities, and a spacious interior with flexible seating configurations. On the other hand, the Lexus RX 350 prioritizes luxury, refinement, and a smooth driving experience, with a focus on comfort and convenience features. Ultimately, the choice between these two vehicles depends on individual priorities, driving requirements, and budget considerations.

Information You Need to Know

1. Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?

• The Ford Explorer offers more powerful engine options, including a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine producing 400 horsepower, while the Lexus RX 350 has a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 295 horsepower.

2. Which vehicle offers better fuel efficiency?

• The Ford Explorer’s hybrid powertrain delivers superior fuel efficiency, achieving up to 27 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, compared to the Lexus RX 350’s 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

3. Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?

• The Ford Explorer offers a more spacious interior with three rows of seating and ample legroom for all passengers, while the Lexus RX 350 has a more luxurious interior with premium materials and a focus on comfort and convenience.