The 2025 Ford Explorer vs. the Toyota Highlander

If you’re shopping for a new family SUV, you’re probably weighing up the merits of the 2025 Ford Explorer vs. the Toyota Highlander. Both these popular three-row SUVs bring unique strengths to the table, and we’ve compared their similarities and differences to help you make the best choice for your family.

Design and Exterior Comparison

The 2025 Ford Explorer has a bold, athletic stance that commands attention on the road. Its recent makeover brings sleek styling and modern design elements that give it a premium appearance. With a longer wheelbase of 119.1 inches compared to the Highlander’s 112.2 inches, the Explorer provides a more substantial road presence.

When it comes to practical measurements, the Explorer edges out the Highlander in ground clearance, offering 8.2 inches versus the Highlander’s 8 inches. While this difference might seem small, it can have a big impact when you’re tackling rough terrain or deep snow.

The Highlander takes a more conservative approach to styling, with clean lines and a refined appearance. Toyota’s design philosophy emphasizes timeless elegance over dramatic flair, which you might find appealing if you’re looking for a more understated presence.

Performance and Capability

Under the hood is where the Explorer really excels. The standard turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine delivers an impressive 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This significantly outperforms the Highlander’s turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 265 horsepower with the same torque figure.

If you’re craving even more power, the Explorer ST variant raises the bar with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 generating a whopping 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This makes it the clear choice if you prioritize performance in your family hauler.

Towing capacity is another area where the Explorer shines, offering up to 5,600 pounds of pulling power compared to the Highlander’s 5,000-pound limit. This extra capability could make a real difference if you’re planning on towing a boat or camper.

The Explorer’s terrain management system includes six selectable drive modes: Normal, Trail, Slippery, Sport, Tow/Haul, and Eco. Combined with its finely tuned suspension system, this versatility makes it equally comfortable on city streets or rugged back roads.

Interior Space and Comfort

Inside each SUV, you’ll find thoughtfully designed interiors that prioritize your family’s comfort. The Explorer seats seven passengers as standard, while the Highlander offers flexibility with seven- or eight-passenger configurations depending on your needs.

Cargo space slightly favors the Explorer, with 85.8 cubic feet of maximum storage compared to the Highlander’s 84.3 cubic feet. However, both vehicles offer plenty of room for your family’s gear, groceries, or weekend adventure equipment.

Ford’s recent focus on providing upscale finishes and premium amenities in the Explorer has created a truly comfortable space for family journeys. The materials and build quality demonstrate the automaker’s commitment to competing with premium brands.

Technology and Safety Features

Both SUVs come packed with modern technology and advanced safety features. The Explorer’s larger touch-screen interface provides intuitive access to entertainment and vehicle controls, while both vehicles offer smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Driver-assistance features have become a crucial factor in SUV selection, and both manufacturers deliver impressive safety suites. You’ll find forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist standard on both models. The Explorer’s Co-Pilot360 technology package matches up well against Toyota’s Safety Sense suite, giving you peace of mind regardless of which vehicle you choose.

The tech interfaces in both vehicles feel modern and responsive, though we’ve found the Explorer’s system to be slightly more intuitive for first-time users. Both SUVs offer wireless charging pads, multiple USB ports, and comprehensive entertainment options to keep your whole family happy on long trips.

Fuel Economy and Value

When it comes to your wallet, both SUVs present compelling cases. The Explorer starts at $39,755, while the Highlander begins at a slightly lower $39,520. However, the price difference becomes less significant when you consider the Explorer’s better engine performance.

Fuel efficiency remains competitive between these rivals. The Explorer achieves 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, while the Highlander slightly edges it with 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. For daily commuting and family road trips, both vehicles offer reasonable fuel consumption given their size and capability.

The value proposition extends beyond the purchase price and fuel costs. Both manufacturers offer comprehensive warranty packages, though Toyota’s reputation for reliability might give you additional peace of mind.

Practical Considerations

When it comes to reliability, the Highlander has the edge, as Toyota has built its reputation on creating dependable vehicles that stand the test of time. However, we’ve seen significant improvements in the Explorer’s build quality and reliability ratings in recent years.

Maintenance costs typically run similar for both vehicles, though you might find slightly lower rates at Toyota service centers. The Explorer’s more powerful engine could require premium fuel for optimal performance, which might affect your running costs depending on your driving style.

Both vehicles maintain strong resale values, though the Highlander historically edges out the Explorer in this category. This could be an important factor if you’re planning on trading up in a few years.

Experience the Ford Explorer Today

We’ll let you make your own decision, but we think it’s pretty clear that the Ford Explorer is the better choice between the two. If you’re interested in purchasing an Explorer, get in touch with our finance department and value your trade-in today.

Your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs. Contact us with any questions you have about the Explorer, or visit us in San Angelo, Texas. If you’re looking for a more dynamic driving experience and maximum capability, the Explorer is your best bet. If long-term reliability and efficiency top your priority list, the Highlander won’t disappoint.