Looking to compare the difference between the 2023 Ford Explorer vs. the 2023 Toyota Highlander? Look no further than our comparison guide here at Keystone Ford. The Explorer continues to be one of the best SUVs out on the market, but with many of the same features as the Highlander is there an exception this time around? Our answer: no. The Explorer is the way to go, and we'll break down why.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- The Explorer is going to offer more passenger space for everyone riding in the back.
- Both SUVs will seat seven passengers comfortably.
- The Explorer offers more cargo space.
- The better powertrain on the Explorer, but the lesser powertrain offers better gas mileage on the Highlander.
THE MORE POWERFUL SUV
The Explorer is going to be your answer. With every powertrain, it offers more and more horsepower over the Highlander. The standard engine for the Explorer is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 with a maximum of 300 horsepower. For comparison's sake, the base engine of the Highlander is a 2.4 I-4 with 265 horsepower. There's no argument; you're going to feel the difference when you take these two on a test drive. The Explorer doesn't stop there: it has two more powertrains offering even more than the one before it. The other two engines are the 3.3-liter Hybrid V6 with 318 hp. and a 3.0-liter Ecoboost V6 with 400 hp.
The Highlander also offers another powertrain option, a 2.5-liter V4 hybrid, with 243 horsepower. We appreciate how both Ford and Toyota offer buyers a hybrid option for SUVs - we know expensive gas can get nowadays. When comparing gas engines, the gas mileage is nearly identical and is average for an SUV of their size. The Explorer does sacrifice some of its fuel efficiency with its hybrid model, for its superior power. The Highlander hybrid engine gets 36 mpg and the Explorer hybrid gets 27 mpg.
OFF-ROADING & TOWING CAPABILITIES
The Explorer continues to pull ahead with what it offers off the road. It has a maximum towing potential of 600 pounds more than the Highlander at 5,600 pounds. When going trailing, the Explorer is more reliable. The Explorer is a four-wheel drive system while the Highlander has a capable, but less suited, all-wheel drive system. The Explorer sits above the ground a little higher and comes fully equipped with a terrain management system; an intelligent off-roading system that gives the Explorer a further edge by being able to adapt to different terrains. If that wasn't already enough, the Explorer offers the Timberline trim, which comes with added off-roading features such as upgraded shocks, skid plated, and much more. There is no Highlander alternative.
ADDED FEATURES: A TIE
A lot of the same variety here, the best features are going to be in either one of these cars. We have found that the Explorer does have a little bit more to offer on its base trim; so more features for less money. For instance, passengers will be an inch more comfortable in the Explorer with the added head and leg room. The Explorer has a cargo capacity of 87 cubic feet. The Highlander comes short at 84 cubic feet, which is about one less carry-on.
While they both share many of the same safety features, the Explorer offers rear parking aids, remote engine start, and remote trunk release as standard features on its base rim. On the other hand, if you prioritize keyless start, adaptive cruise control, and heated mirrors more, then the Highlander offers these features on its base trim.
PRICE & WARRANTY
The Highlander and the Explorer both offer a basic warranty of 36,000 miles over three years. They also have a powertrain warranty of 60,000 miles over 5 years. The only difference here is that Highlander offers a free maintenance plan. But for cost, there is no significant difference in the asking price and the average paid between either of these cars: they both are going to cost you the same at around $36,600.
WHY IT COMES DOWN TO THE EXPLORER
Compare their prices, then compare their features. It becomes clear why we prefer the Explorer. A stronger powertrain, better towing, and extra added features to seal the deal. It makes the Explorer sound and safe choice for any future SUV owner.