Ford Explorer vs Toyota Highlander

The Ford Explorer is a More Thoughtful Combination of the Qualities Mid-Texas Drivers Want from Mid-Size SUVs Than the Toyota Highlander

While every unique mid-size SUV owner has their own reasons for selecting a model from the class, it normally boils down to the fact that few other types of vehicles deliver the space, comfort, and capability that are standards of larger SUVs. However, with the diverse range of mid-size SUVs that promise those qualities mentioned above, finding the right model isn't always easy, but we're here to help those struggling with their decision!

We maintain that the Ford Explorer is one of the models best suited to the many tasks that drivers around Brownwood, TX require from their three-row SUVs, so, to highlight exactly how it beats out competitors like the Toyota Highlander, we compared the two in vital areas that you should consider before purchasing one. Look through our findings below!

Design and Comfort

Those engineering aspects ensure that riding the Ford Explorer is a smooth and confidence-inspiring experience, but car shoppers will also find that the cabin space and comfort features help in that regard. It has nearly 43 inches of front legroom that, while a little less than the Toyota Highlander offers, is still more than enough for pretty much every driver, but it has much more legroom for the rear rows than the Highlander, which only has 27.7 inches of legroom for the third row. On top of that, the Ford Explorer has 21 cubic feet of cargo room behind the third row while the Highlander only has 13.8 cubic feet.

More than the space and convenience of power-folding third-row seats, the Ford Explorer has a range of materials and comfort features that the Toyota Highlander doesn't offer. These include everything from front seats with a massage function to a premium leather and wood steering wheel, which make your ride ultra-comfortable and luxurious.

We've shown how the Ford Explorer is the brawnier of the two mid-size SUVs, but it also has the technology to lay claim to the title of the brainier of the two. You'll find this tech in the safety features, like the Active Park Assist function and rear-seat inflatable seatbelts, and convenience aspects, like a hands-free rear liftgate. But the infotainment system with the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto programs may be the smartest, which you'll see when you go to use mobile apps through the in-dash touchscreen. The Highlander offers none of the above features.

 Performance

Large SUVs need large engines, and, no matter which of the three engines of the Ford Explorer you end up selecting, you can expect power and capability, which isn't true of the Toyota Highlander and it's 185-horsepower four-cylinder engine. The Highlander does offer a V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, but even that can't keep up with the V6 EcoBoost® engine available with the Explorer that has 365 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque.

You'll See Even More to Love About the New Ford Explorer at Big Country Ford Lincoln in Brownwood, TX!

As you can see from all the areas above, there are lots of reasons why the Ford Explorer is one of the most enjoyed and versatile vehicles in its class, and car shoppers around Mid-Texas and beyond can find the impressive mid-size SUV waiting for them at our dealership, so don't hesitate to come down and see it if you're interested!