What To Know
- Its EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway make it an incredibly frugal choice for families on the go.
- The Ford Explorer and Toyota Sienna come equipped with a suite of advanced technology features to keep you connected, entertained, and safe on the road.
- In terms of reliability, the Toyota Sienna has a slight edge over the Ford Explorer, with a reputation for exceptional durability and longevity.
In the realm of family-friendly SUVs, the Ford Explorer and Toyota Sienna stand out as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles boast spacious interiors, versatile features, and powerful engines, making them ideal for road trips, daily commutes, and everything in between. However, discerning buyers may wonder which SUV truly excels in various aspects. This comprehensive comparison guide delves into the intricacies of the Ford Explorer vs Sienna, helping you make an informed decision based on your unique needs and preferences.
Performance and Power: Unleashing the Beasts
Under the hood, the Ford Explorer and Toyota Sienna offer distinct powertrains that cater to different driving styles. The Explorer comes standard with a robust 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, generating 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine delivers ample power for highway cruising and effortless acceleration, making it a joy to drive.
On the other hand, the Sienna Hybrid boasts a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined 245 horsepower. While not as potent as the Explorer’s engine, the Sienna’s hybrid system provides exceptional fuel efficiency, making it an attractive option for eco-conscious drivers.
Fuel Efficiency: Battling for Mileage Supremacy
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Toyota Sienna Hybrid reigns supreme. Its EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway make it an incredibly frugal choice for families on the go. In contrast, the Ford Explorer with its 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine manages 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, which is still respectable for a midsize SUV.
Interior Space and Comfort: Room for the Whole Crew
Both the Ford Explorer and Toyota Sienna offer cavernous interiors with ample seating for up to eight passengers. The Explorer provides 15.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which expands to a generous 87.8 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down. The Sienna, on the other hand, boasts 39.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and a whopping 101 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down.
In terms of comfort, both SUVs offer supportive seats and plenty of legroom and headroom for all passengers. However, the Sienna’s second-row captain’s chairs provide an extra touch of luxury and convenience.
Technology and Features: Embracing Innovation
The Ford Explorer and Toyota Sienna come equipped with a suite of advanced technology features to keep you connected, entertained, and safe on the road. The Explorer features Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. The Sienna, on the other hand, boasts Toyota’s Entune 3.0 infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a JBL premium audio system.
In terms of safety features, both SUVs offer a comprehensive suite of standard and available features, including airbags, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
Safety and Reliability: Prioritizing Peace of Mind
The Ford Explorer and Toyota Sienna have both earned excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both SUVs come standard with a variety of active and passive safety features to protect occupants in the event of a collision.
In terms of reliability, the Toyota Sienna has a slight edge over the Ford Explorer, with a reputation for exceptional durability and longevity. However, both SUVs are generally considered reliable choices with proper maintenance.
Pricing and Value: Balancing Budget and Benefits
The Ford Explorer and Toyota Sienna offer competitive pricing, with the base Explorer starting at around $33,000 and the base Sienna Hybrid starting at around $35,000. As you move up the trim levels, the prices increase accordingly, with fully loaded models reaching the mid-$50,000 range.
Ultimately, the best value proposition depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency and interior space, the Sienna Hybrid is an excellent choice. However, if you desire more power and off-road capability, the Explorer may be a better fit.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right SUV for Your Family
The Ford Explorer and Toyota Sienna are both outstanding SUVs with unique strengths and weaknesses. The Explorer offers more power and off-road capability, while the Sienna Hybrid provides exceptional fuel efficiency and interior space. Ultimately, the best choice for your family depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which SUV has better towing capacity?
A: The Ford Explorer has a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds, while the Toyota Sienna Hybrid has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.
Q: Which SUV has a better warranty?
A: The Ford Explorer comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Toyota Sienna Hybrid comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and an 8-year/100,000-mile hybrid component warranty.
Q: Which SUV is better for off-road driving?
A: The Ford Explorer is better for off-road driving thanks to its available four-wheel drive system and higher ground clearance.