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Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander: Family SUV Showdown

Which three-row fits your crew best?

Looking at the Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander for your next family SUV? You’re comparing two of the segment’s all-stars. Both deliver three rows, tons of safety features, and everyday comfort.

The differences show up in third-row space, powertrains, towing, and the way each brand approaches performance vs. efficiency. Below, we break down Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander specs, dimensions, features, and who each model suits best so you can shop smarter.

Quick Comparison ⏰

Looking for some fast Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander specs? Here’s the rundown:

Seating:

  • Explorer: 6 or 7 seats (available captain’s chairs).

  • Highlander: 7 or 8 seats (bench or captain’s chairs).

Powertrains:

  • Explorer: Turbo I-4, twin-turbo V6 (ST/Platinum), and a Hybrid option (availability varies by year/trim).

  • Highlander: 2.4L turbo I-4; Hybrid available (excellent MPG).

Towing (max, properly equipped):

  • Explorer: up to 5,600 lbs (V6).

  • Highlander: up to 5,000 lbs (gas); up to 3,500 lbs (Hybrid).

Space feel:

  • Explorer: Airier third row and strong cargo flexibility.

  • Highlander: Comfortable first/second row; third row tighter for teens/adults.

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Design & Technology ✨

The Explorer leans athletic outside and modern inside, with available large touchscreens, digital clusters, and SYNC® infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™. USB-A/USB-C abundance, available wireless charging, and a premium audio upgrade keep everyone plugged in. 

In the Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander debate, the Highlander goes clean and conservative, with an easy-to-use interface, abundant storage cubbies, and widely available wireless phone integration. Hybrid trims are especially quiet, and Toyota’s reputation for ergonomic controls is on full display. 

In both the Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander specs sheets, top trims bring upscale materials, distinctive styling, and premium audio options.

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Comfort & Safety: Family First 🛟

In the Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander face-off, the Explorer brings supportive seats, available captain’s chairs, and a quieter highway ride on upper trims. It offers Ford Co-Pilot360® driver-assist tech (features like BLIS® blind-spot, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane-Keeping System, and available adaptive cruise). Parents love the available surround-view camera and easy child-seat access in row two.

The Highlander focuses on serene comfort and confidence with Toyota Safety Sense™ driver assists standard across the board, including adaptive cruise, lane centering, and pre-collision features. The cabin layout is straightforward, and the Hybrid’s mellow power delivery makes school-run traffic less stressful.

Size & Dimensions: Room Where It Counts 📏

When families compare the Highlander vs. Explorer, they’re often talking about real-world space.

The Explorer’s longer wheelbase pays off in the third row and cargo area, making it easier to buckle in boosters or carry a stroller and weekend gear. Highlander counters the Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander specs face-off with an 8-passenger option and a friendlier second row for car seats thanks to widely available LATCH points.

If your back row sees frequent use, Explorer’s extra stretch is a noticeable comfort upgrade in the Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander debate; if you rotate between 7–8 passengers, Highlander’s bench is a draw.

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The image shows the front grille and headlight of a pickup truck, with the "ST" badge prominently displayed on the grille.

Cargo & Family Practicality: Real-World Usability

When shoppers compare Highlander vs. Explorer, day-to-day usability often decides it. Both SUVs offer hands-free liftgates, low liftover heights, and smart under-floor storage.

The Highlander offers an available 8-passenger setup (second-row bench) and widely available LATCH points, which families love for car-seat flexibility. Highlander’s bench earns points if you rotate between 7–8 passengers.

Comparing the Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander on cargo? The Explorer typically offers a bit more max cargo room with rows folded and an available power-fold third row, making Costco runs and sports gear shuffles easier. The Explorer’s longer load floor is handy for strollers and folding chairs, and its extra stretch is great for teens and adults.

Shop the Toyota Highlander

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Performance & Powertrains

In the Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander specs battle, both SUVs move a crowd confidently, but they take different routes.

Explorer (Performance-forward choice)

  • Turbo 4-cylinder: Smooth, efficient, and punchy for daily driving.

  • Twin-turbo V6 (ST/Platinum): Serious passing power and the segment’s sportiest feel; pairs with a sport-tuned chassis on ST.

  • Hybrid (availability varies): Balance of fuel savings with true SUV capability; still rated to tow respectably when properly equipped.

  • Tow rating: Up to 5,600 lbs (V6)—great for a boat, small camper, or gear trailer.

Highlander (Efficiency-forward choice)

  • 2.4L turbo gas: Replaces the old V6 with strong low-end torque and good highway manners.

  • Hybrid: A top reason shoppers choose Highlander; excellent MPG and quiet around town.

  • Tow rating: Up to 5,000 lbs (gas); up to 3,500 lbs (Hybrid) when properly equipped.

👉 Need help deciding between power vs. MPG in the Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander debate? Talk to our team. We’ll map your commute, towing needs, and total cost of ownership.

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Choose the Ford Explorer if you…

  • Want a roomier third row and flexible cargo area.

  • Prefer stronger towing and performance (especially the twin-turbo V6).

  • Like the idea of a sporty drive (ST) with family practicality.

  • Want advanced tech and camera options that ease parking and towing.

An SUV with a roof rack drives down a dirt road surrounded by tall pine trees and a mountainous landscape in the background.

Choose the Toyota Highlander if you…

  • Need 8-passenger capacity with the second-row bench.

  • Prioritize Hybrid MPG and quiet city manners.

  • Prefer a simple, calm cabin vibe with intuitive controls.

  • Tow up to 5,000 lbs (gas) and rarely need more.

Ready to Make Your Choice? 

In the Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander debate, Explorer leans performance and usable space, while Highlander leans efficiency and seating flexibility. If you want more third-row and towing confidence, the Explorer is likely your SUV. If you want hybrid MPG and an available 8th seat, the Highlander earns a close look.

See the Highlander vs. Explorer on the same day. Book your test drive and we’ll line up comparable trims so you can feel the differences in power, space, and tech.

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FAQ: Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander

Still weighing Highlander vs. Explorer? This section tackles the most common questions, from where each SUV is built to towing limits, seating, and reliability. If you’re comparing Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander specs, start here for fast, confident decisions.