Ford Explorer vs Toyota Highlander

Looking for a midsize SUV for the entire family? Comparing the 2020 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander, it’s easy to see why these vehicles are so well-liked by drivers. Both cars have seen a major redesign for the 2020 model year, too, so there are many new and exciting features and amenities to explore.

The Maguire Ford team near Ithaca, Elmira, and Cortland has created this helpful comparison to take a closer look at these two SUVs and what makes them exciting options.

Explorer vs Highlander Performance Specs

One thing the Ford Explorer is known for is its versatility and dynamic performance. With three different engines to choose from, you’re able to find the perfect match for your needs. The entry-level Explorer features a twin-scroll turbocharger, along with the ability to reach 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.

The Highlander, while certainly powerful in its own right, carries a 3.5L V6 engine that only produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. When you’re seeking out power and torque, the Explorer is the clear choice here. Plus, there are a few other engines to select from; the Highlander offers only the lone V6 powerplant.

Ready to flex your muscle? You’ll be doing just that if you use your SUV for towing purposes. The Explorer is ready to tow, with the most powerful V6 engine delivering up to 5,600 pounds of towing capacity. In the Highlander, the 5,000-pound capacity gives you the ability to tow plenty, but it can’t quite keep up with the Explorer.

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Inside the Cabin

Each SUV’s cabin is unique, with 3-row seating for seven people found in the Explorer. If you prefer, the Explorer cabin can be set up for six. The Highlander’s standard seating is for seven, while there is available seating for up to eight. This gives you many ways to get creative with the cabin setup and cargo space.

An available 10.1-inch Explorer touchscreen puts connectivity right at your fingertips, as well. Use the touchscreen just like you would your smartphone or tablet to pull up directions, play a song, or call your friends. The available screen in the Highlander measures in at eight inches, and while it’s large, it doesn’t match up to the Explorer.

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Explorer vs Highlander Safety

Ford Co-Pilot360™ technology is ready to provide a helping hand. This suite of standard driver-assisting features helps you feel comfortable on the roadways. What will you find in this standard package?

To start, there’s Automatic Emergency Braking with Pre-Collision Assist. You’ll be alerted when a potential collision is possible, with brakes applied automatically if you’re unable to react in time. Similar standard safety tech is found in the Highlander via a Pre-Collision System with Low-Light Pedestrian Detection.

The Explorer Lane-Keeping System prevents wandering from your lane’s edge. If you drift out of your lane, you’ll be directed with steering wheel torque to return to the lane. The Highlander also has similar technology.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander offers blind spot capability, too. However, it’s an available feature and not standard like in the 2020 Explorer. Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert lets you know when another car is lurking in your blind spot, so that next lane change is a safe one.

2020 Ford Explorer vs Toyota Highlander: Choosing Your Next SUV

Finding your next midsize SUV is an easy task when you’re a more well-informed driver. As you’ve seen from this 2020 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander comparison, these two cars are well-positioned to be your next Ithaca SUV.

However, there’s only one that has three engine choices, better towing capability, and capable tech. It’s the 2020 Ford Explorer, and it’s available here at Maguire Ford near Elmira and Cortland.