The Ultimate Family Vehicle: Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander

In today’s busy world, families require vehicles that provide ample space, advanced safety features, strong performance capabilities, and good fuel efficiency – all rolled into one stylish package. With the plethora of options available in the family vehicle market, it can be overwhelming for prospective buyers to compare and make the right choice. The Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander are two SUVs that consistently rank high in people’s preferences, making them strong contenders for anyone in search of their perfect family vehicle.

In this blog post, we will take an in-depth look at the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander, comparing factors such as performance, interior features, safety, and price. By carefully examining the aspects that matter most to families in need of a dependable vehicle, we aim to provide you with valuable insights to help determine which SUV is the best choice for you and your loved ones.

Furthermore, we will highlight the distinctive features and benefits that set the Ford Explorer apart from the Toyota Highlander, showcasing its superiority as a family vehicle and convincing you that opting for a Ford Explorer is indeed the right decision.

Join us on this journey to explore the key differences between these two popular SUVs and learn how the Ford Explorer is poised to exceed the expectations of families in search of a versatile, safe, and comfortable vehicle. Discover how Cavender Grande Ford can help you select the perfect Ford Explorer tailored to your unique needs and preferences.

Performance: Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander

When comparing the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander in terms of performance, it’s clear that the Ford Explorer has the edge. Under the hood, the Explorer boasts a standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that generates 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, ensuring ample power for daily driving and family trips. In contrast, the Toyota Highlander comes with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, producing only 185 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.

The Ford Explorer offers more advanced engine options as well, including a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 making 400 horsepower and a fuel-efficient 3.3-liter hybrid engine. The Highlander does have a 3.5-liter V6 that generates 295 horsepower, but it falls short when compared to the Explorer’s top offerings.

Additionally, the Ford Explorer has a higher maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds when properly equipped, allowing you to tow a boat, camper, or trailer with ease. In comparison, the Toyota Highlander’s maximum towing capacity stands at 5,000 pounds, making the Explorer a more versatile choice for families with multiple towing needs.

Interior Features and Comfort

Both the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander are designed with family comfort in mind and are equipped with a range of interior features that make your daily commute or weekend trips as relaxing as possible. However, the Ford Explorer does stand out with its spacious cabin and thoughtfully designed features.

The Ford Explorer can comfortably seat up to seven passengers across its three rows, whereas the Highlander can accommodate eight. However, the Explorer offers more legroom and individual space, making for a more comfortable ride overall. Furthermore, the Explorer provides more cargo space behind the third row, which is essential for families who need room for luggage, sports equipment, and groceries.

When it comes to technology, the Ford Explorer features the latest SYNC 4 infotainment system with a beautiful 10.1-inch portrait touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation. In contrast, the Toyota Highlander comes with an 8-inch touchscreen and additional features only available through optional packages. In terms of luxury, the Explorer’s Platinum trim level offers options like massaging seats and a top-notch Bang & Olufsen sound system, while the Highlander’s Limited trim falls short in providing a similar level of opulence.

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is a top priority for families, and both the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander do well in this regard, but there are some notable differences between the two. The Ford Explorer features Ford’s comprehensive Co-Pilot360 safety suite, which includes a variety of advanced driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and more.

While the Highlander offers features like adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning as standard, certain elements like a 360-degree view camera are available only as an optional package. Furthermore, the Ford Explorer received a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while the Toyota Highlander was given a 4-star frontal crash rating.

Price and Overall Value

Cost is always a primary consideration when purchasing a new vehicle, and the Ford Explorer delivers a competitive balance of performance, features, and value compared to the Toyota Highlander. The Explorer’s starting base price is slightly lower than the Highlander’s, which adds up to savings that can go toward other family expenses or investing in optional packages for additional features.

While both vehicles offer a range of trims and upgrades, the Ford Explorer consistently provides a more attractive combination of power, convenience, and comfort, making it the superior choice for families who want the best overall value for their investment.

Conclusion: The Ford Explorer is The Ultimate Family Vehicle

The Ford Explorer outshines the Toyota Highlander in several key aspects, solidifying its status as the ultimate family vehicle. With more powerful engine options, superior towing capabilities, a comfortable and spacious interior, advanced safety features, and a competitive price, the Ford Explorer is the ideal choice for families who value versatility, safety, and performance.

Experience the exceptional Ford Explorer for yourself by visiting Cavender Grande Ford today. Our dedicated team of experts is ready to help you explore all that the Explorer has to offer and guide you in choosing the perfect configuration to suit your family’s unique needs and preferences. Don’t hesitate to stop by our dealership and discover why the Ford Explorer is the ultimate choice for a family vehicle.