Toyota highlander vs ford explorer: the reliability tug-of-war ends here

When it comes to midsize SUVs, the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer stand out as two of the most popular options. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, powerful engines, and advanced safety features. However, when it comes to reliability, which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the Toyota Highlander vs Ford Explorer reliability, examining their respective strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

Brand Reputation

Toyota has a long-standing reputation for reliability, consistently ranking among the top automakers in various industry surveys. The Highlander is no exception, inheriting Toyota’s commitment to quality and durability. Ford, on the other hand, has had a more checkered history regarding reliability but has made significant strides in recent years.

Powertrain Reliability

The Highlander offers a choice of a 3.5-liter V6 engine or a hybrid powertrain. The V6 engine has proven to be highly reliable, with minimal reported issues. The hybrid system, while more complex, has also performed well with few major problems. The Explorer, on the other hand, has had some issues with its turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, particularly in earlier model years. However, the naturally aspirated 3.3-liter V6 has been more reliable.

Transmission Reliability

The Highlander is offered with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the Explorer comes with a six-speed automatic or a ten-speed automatic. The Highlander’s transmission has a solid track record, with no significant issues reported. The Explorer’s six-speed automatic has been known to develop problems, especially in high-mileage vehicles. The ten-speed automatic, introduced in newer models, has been more reliable but still requires long-term observation.

Suspension and Brakes

The Highlander’s suspension system has received praise for its comfort and durability. The Explorer’s suspension, while capable, has been criticized for being somewhat stiff and prone to noise. In terms of brakes, both vehicles have performed well, with no major issues to report.

Interior and Electronics

The Highlander’s interior is spacious and well-built, with high-quality materials and intuitive controls. The Explorer’s interior is also spacious but has been known to experience some issues with fit and finish. The Highlander’s infotainment system is generally reliable, while the Explorer’s system has had some problems with connectivity and software glitches.

Safety Features

Both the Highlander and Explorer offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). The Highlander’s safety systems have received high marks from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Explorer’s safety systems have also performed well, but the IIHS has noted some limitations in its crashworthiness ratings.

Maintenance and Repair Costs

Toyota vehicles are generally known for their low maintenance and repair costs. The Highlander is no exception, with affordable parts and labor costs. The Explorer, while not as cheap to maintain as the Highlander, is still within the average range for midsize SUVs. However, some of its turbocharged engines have been known to require more frequent and expensive repairs.

Resale Value

The Highlander has consistently maintained a high resale value, thanks to its reputation for reliability and durability. The Explorer has also held its value well, but not to the same extent as the Highlander.

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Choice

Based on this comprehensive comparison, the Toyota Highlander emerges as the clear winner in terms of reliability. Toyota’s long-standing reputation for quality, coupled with the Highlander’s proven powertrain, transmission, and suspension systems, makes it the more reliable choice. The Explorer, while offering a competitive package, has had some issues with its turbocharged engines and transmission. If reliability is your top priority, the Toyota Highlander is the superior choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which vehicle has a better safety rating?
A: Both the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer have received high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. However, the Highlander has a slight edge in IIHS crashworthiness ratings.

Q: Which vehicle has a more comfortable interior?
A: The Toyota Highlander‘s interior is generally considered more comfortable than the Ford Explorer’s, with high-quality materials and a more spacious cabin.

Q: Which vehicle offers better fuel economy?
A: The Toyota Highlander’s hybrid powertrain offers significantly better fuel economy than the Ford Explorer‘s gasoline engines. However, the Explorer’s naturally aspirated V6 engine is more fuel-efficient than the Highlander’s V6 engine.