Fuel efficiency masterclass: toyota highlander vs ford explorer – unlocking the secrets of mpg

When it comes to choosing a midsize SUV, two of the most popular options are the Toyota Highlander and the Ford Explorer. Both vehicles offer a spacious interior, plenty of features, and a comfortable ride. But which one is right for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Toyota Highlander against the Ford Explorer to help you make an informed decision.

Exterior Design

The Toyota Highlander boasts a sleek and modern exterior with sharp lines and a bold grille. The Ford Explorer, on the other hand, has a more rugged and muscular appearance, with a wide stance and a prominent front end. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your personal preferences.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both the Highlander and the Explorer offer ample seating for up to seven passengers. The Highlander’s interior is known for its spaciousness, with plenty of legroom and headroom in both the front and back seats. The Explorer’s interior is equally spacious, but it offers a more luxurious experience, with premium materials and comfortable seating.

Features and Technology

The Toyota Highlander comes standard with a wide range of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features. The Ford Explorer offers a similar level of technology, but it also has some unique features, such as a panoramic moonroof and a hands-free liftgate.

Power and Performance

The Toyota Highlander is available with a choice of two engines: a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 295 horsepower and a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid that produces a combined 243 horsepower. The Ford Explorer comes standard with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that produces 300 horsepower, but it also offers a more powerful 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine that produces 400 horsepower.

Fuel Economy

The Toyota Highlander hybrid offers the best fuel economy of the two vehicles, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined. The Highlander’s V6 engine is rated for 23 mpg combined, while the Ford Explorer’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine is rated for 24 mpg combined.

Safety

Both the Toyota Highlander and the Ford Explorer have received 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 automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Price

The Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $35,850, while the Ford Explorer starts at $36,685. However, the Highlander’s higher fuel economy could save you money in the long run.

Which One Is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best way to decide which SUV is right for you is to test drive both the Toyota Highlander and the Ford Explorer. Consider your needs and preferences, and weigh the pros and cons of each vehicle. If you’re looking for a spacious and fuel-efficient SUV, the Toyota Highlander is a great choice. If you prefer a more rugged and powerful SUV with a luxurious interior, the Ford Explorer is worth considering.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Which SUV has a better towing capacity?
A: The Ford Explorer has a higher towing capacity than the Toyota Highlander, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds compared to the Highlander’s 5,000 pounds.

Q: Which SUV has a better warranty?
A: The Ford Explorer has a longer basic warranty than the Toyota Highlander, with a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty compared to the Highlander’s 2-year/25,000-mile warranty.

Q: Which SUV has a better off-road performance?
A: The Ford Explorer offers better off-road performance than the Toyota Highlander, thanks to its available all-wheel drive system and terrain management system.