Toyota Highlander vs Ford Explorer: Difference and Comparison

Whether you’re a working parent of three or a grandparent taking the extended family on vacation, midsize SUVs with three rows of seats sound plausible.

Key Takeaways

  1. Toyota Highlander is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and smooth ride.
  2. Ford Explorer is popular for its powerful engine, spacious cabin, and off-road capabilities.
  3. While both SUVs offer similar features, Toyota Highlander is better for those who prioritize fuel economy and comfort. At the same time, Ford Explorer is ideal for those who want a more rugged and versatile vehicle.

Toyota Highlander vs Ford Explorer

The difference Between Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer is that Toyota Explorer has an affordable price range with premium base model features than Ford Explorer. Toyota Highlander focuses on passenger comfort and safety, while Ford Explorer focuses on its engine and safety and other features at an extra cost to a premium model.

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The 2021 Toyota Highlander has been modified to provide value, fuel efficiency, and endurance. Buyers may opt for a 295-horsepower V6 engine or a hybrid, which is now available in FWD or AWD.

The Ford Explorer is spacious, with 2-2-2 seating available in everything except the basic model (which gets a 3-passenger middle bench). That implies it can accommodate up to seven people.

Comparison Table

Parameters of Comparison Toyota Highlander Ford Explorer 
CompanyToyotaFord
First Model20011991
Base price$34,000 $33,000
Seating capacity of Passengers8 seaters7 seaters
Airbags8 Air Bags7 Airbags
Engine295-hp 3.5-liter300-hp 2.6-Liter

What is Toyota Highlander?

Toyota’s Highlander, originally known as the Kluger, is a luxurious crossover SUV. It was announced in April 2000 at the New York International Auto Show, and it went on sale in Japan in late 2000 and in America in January 2001.

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The 2020 Toyota Highlander has been updated to provide value, fuel efficiency, and dependability. Buyers can pick a 295-horsepower V6 engine or a hybrid, which is now available in FWD and AWD.

Highlander has six trim levels, including a sportier XSE for 2021, as well as four hybrid trim levels. Captain’s seats or a bench in the second row are available to purchasers.

All models come with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities, and Bluetooth streaming, as well as designed navigation.

toyota highlander

What is Ford Explorer?

The Ford Explorer is a series of SUVs produced by Ford Motor Company in 1991. The Explorer was released as a successor to the two-door Bronco II as Ford’s first four-door SUV.

The Ford Explorer is spacious, with everything except the basic model offering 2-2-2 seating. The Ford is an American model designed for the American consumer who values plenty of room for passengers, which it provides.

A 322-horsepower V6 hybrid, as well as a turbo V6 with 365 or 400 horsepower, are available as upgrades. AWD is basic on the turbo V6 and optional on the others.
The 2.3-litre is available in the basic, XLT, and Limited trims, with the hybrid option available on the Limited.

The ST and Platinum are the only cars with a twin-turbo, as well as a touchscreen infotainment cluster and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system and a 10.1-inch tablet touchscreen.

ford

Main Differences Between Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer

  1. Ford Explorer has a seating capacity of 7, while Toyota Highlander has a seating capacity of 8.
  2. Toyota Highlander has a 295-Horse power 3.5-litre engine, and Ford Explorer has a 300-Horse power 2.6 -litre engine.
References
  1. https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/2021-ford-explorer-vs-2021-toyota-highlander-comparison
  2. https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2020-toyota-highlander-vs-2020-ford-explorer-comparison/
  3. https://www.kbb.com/comparison/2021-ford-explorer-vs-2021-toyota-highlander/
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Last Updated : 14 August, 2023

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23 thoughts on “Toyota Highlander vs Ford Explorer: Difference and Comparison”

  1. The in-depth descriptions of the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer offer valuable information about their design, features, and technology, assisting consumers in making an educated choice based on their preferences.

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    • The details about model trims and availability of captain’s seats or a bench in the second row are important to potential buyers.

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  3. The Toyota Highlander is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and smooth ride, while the Ford Explorer is popular for its powerful engine, spacious cabin, and off-road capabilities. These aspects are important to consider when choosing a midsize SUV.

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  6. The modifications of the 2021 Toyota Highlander, including the introduction of hybrid options, broaden the choices for consumers, while the seating capacity and engine differences between the Highlander and Ford Explorer are essential considerations for prospective buyers.

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