Unbelievable mileage comparison: ford explorer hybrid vs toyota highlander hybrid
What To Know
- The Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers a few unique features, such as a panoramic moonroof, a hands-free power liftgate, and a 360-degree camera.
- Both the Ford Explorer Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- Both the Ford Explorer Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid are exceptional hybrid SUVs that offer a compelling blend of performance, fuel economy, features, and safety.
The Ford Explorer Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid are two of the most popular hybrid SUVs on the market. Both vehicles offer a spacious interior, excellent fuel economy, and advanced safety features. But which one is right for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Ford Explorer Hybrid against the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and evaluate their key differences in performance, fuel efficiency, features, safety, and ownership costs.
Performance
Under the hood, the Ford Explorer Hybrid features a 3.3-liter V6 engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 318 horsepower. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid, on the other hand, utilizes a 2.5-liter inline-four engine and two electric motors, generating a combined output of 243 horsepower.
In terms of acceleration, the Ford Explorer Hybrid has a slight edge, reaching 60 mph in 6.5 seconds compared to 7.3 seconds for the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. However, the Highlander Hybrid offers better handling and agility due to its lower center of gravity.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration for hybrid vehicles. The Ford Explorer Hybrid achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid delivers slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Features
Both the Ford Explorer Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid offer a generous list of standard features. These include:
- Ford Explorer Hybrid: 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, rearview camera
- Toyota Highlander Hybrid: 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, tri-zone climate control, blind-spot monitoring
The Ford Explorer Hybrid stands out with its available 10.1-inch touchscreen, panoramic sunroof, and heated and ventilated seats. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers a few unique features, such as a panoramic moonroof, a hands-free power liftgate, and a 360-degree camera.
Safety
Safety is paramount in any vehicle. Both the Ford Explorer Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Standard safety features on both vehicles include:
- Forward collision warning
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
- Adaptive cruise control
The Ford Explorer Hybrid offers available features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid also offers similar features, including a rear cross-traffic braking system and a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert.
Ownership Costs
Ownership costs are an important factor to consider when choosing a vehicle. The Ford Explorer Hybrid has a slightly lower starting price than the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. However, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid has lower annual maintenance costs, estimated at $490 compared to $590 for the Ford Explorer Hybrid.
Which Hybrid SUV is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best hybrid SUV for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance and features, the Ford Explorer Hybrid is a solid choice. If you value fuel efficiency and reliability, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is an excellent option.
Key Points: The Hybrid SUV Showdown
Both the Ford Explorer Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid are exceptional hybrid SUVs that offer a compelling blend of performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. While the Ford Explorer Hybrid excels in performance and features, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid shines in fuel efficiency and reliability. Ultimately, the choice between these two vehicles comes down to your specific priorities and preferences.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Which hybrid SUV has better fuel economy?
A: The Toyota Highlander Hybrid has slightly better fuel economy than the Ford Explorer Hybrid.
Q: Which hybrid SUV has more horsepower?
A: The Ford Explorer Hybrid has more horsepower than the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
Q: Which hybrid SUV has a better safety rating?
A: Both the Ford Explorer Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid have earned top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.
Q: Which hybrid SUV has a lower starting price?
A: The Ford Explorer Hybrid has a slightly lower starting price than the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
Q: Which hybrid SUV has lower annual maintenance costs?
A: The Toyota Highlander Hybrid has lower annual maintenance costs than the Ford Explorer Hybrid.