Ford Explorer vs Toyota Highlander

Every outing can become an adventure with the right SUV. Hickory, Valdese, and Brookford families have their sights set on two: the 2020 Ford Explorer and 2019 Toyota Highlander. These midsize SUVs lead the pack in terms of performance, safety, and versatility.

In this car comparison, we’ll pit these two head to head in the SUV showdown of the year! See which one has the qualities you need most in a vehicle. Contact us at Cloninger Ford of Hickory to learn more.

Explorer vs Highlander: Interior Features

For a ride that can accommodate the whole family, the Explorer and Highlander are excellent fits. These three-row SUVs make room for the kids, their friends, the extended family, and anyone else who might come along for the ride.

The seats are spacious, especially the first two rows. The Ford SUV can even seat adults in its third row, where 32.2 inches of legroom is more than sufficient. The Highlander falls short in this regard—its 27.7 inches of third-row legroom is a bit too tight for the average adult.

Available moonroofs let your passengers view the skies above! The twin-panel moonroof in the Ford Explorer, as well as its Toyota counterpart, slides open to let in the sunshine.  

Technology Features for Your Adventure

No road trip is complete without blasting your favorite music. Luckily, the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander make it easy. The B&O™ Premium Sound System offers 14 speakers and 980 watts of power to Explorer drivers. Meanwhile, you’ll find 12 speakers in the Highlander’s premium audio system.     

Rear-seat entertainment systems are available on both SUVs. Treat your kids to their favorite movies and games for a quicker and more peaceful drive. Up front, you’ll have a state-of-the-art system for your infotainment with Ford SYNC® 3 or Toyota Entune™ Audio.

Keep in mind, though, that only the Ford Explorer has an available digital gauge cluster. This 12.3-inch screen replaces the traditional instrument panel and can be customized to show your most important information.

A Performance that Excites

Expect lots of energy when you get behind the wheel of the Explorer and Highlander. The latter offers an available V6 engine that cranks out 306 horsepower. That’s a solid figure, but the Explorer packs an even bigger punch. Drive the EcoBoost® V6-equipped ST trim and see how 400 horsepower feels!

Of the two, the Ford SUV is a more muscular towing machine. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 5,600 pounds—enough to move a small boat or camper trailer. At its best, the Toyota Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds, falling slightly behind the Explorer.   

Value efficiency more than power? You’ll like that both SUVs offer hybrid powertrains. From daily driving to cross-country road trips, you can spend more time on the roads and less time filling up at the pump. 

Ford Explorer vs Toyota Highlander: Choose Your SUV

Now, we’re down to the million-dollar question: Will the 2020 Ford Explorer or 2019 Toyota Highlander serve your needs best? Valdese, Hickory, and Brookford families will need to decide that for themselves.

If you value rear legroom, advanced technology, and potent powertrains, we think you’ll like what the fully redesigned Explorer brings to the table. Schedule a test drive at Cloninger Ford of Hickory and see what this midsize SUV can do!