Sequoia vs explorer: the definitive guide to choosing the right full-size suv for your needs
What To Know
- When it comes to choosing a full-size SUV that can handle both family adventures and off-road escapades, the Toyota Sequoia and Ford Explorer are two contenders that immediately come to mind.
- In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the specifications, features, and performance of the Toyota Sequoia and Ford Explorer to help you determine which one is the best fit for your needs.
- The Toyota Sequoia has a higher starting price than the Ford Explorer, with an MSRP of $58,825 compared to $34,840 for the Explorer.
When it comes to choosing a full-size SUV that can handle both family adventures and off-road escapades, the Toyota Sequoia and Ford Explorer are two contenders that immediately come to mind. Both vehicles offer a spacious interior, powerful engines, and advanced safety features. However, there are key differences between these two SUVs that potential buyers should consider before making a decision. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the specifications, features, and performance of the Toyota Sequoia and Ford Explorer to help you determine which one is the best fit for your needs.
Size and Space: Sequoia’s Roominess vs Explorer’s Versatility
The Toyota Sequoia boasts a larger overall size than the Ford Explorer, offering more interior space for passengers and cargo. The Sequoia’s wheelbase is 118.1 inches, while the Explorer’s is 112.2 inches. This difference translates into a more spacious cabin for the Sequoia, with more legroom and headroom in all three rows of seats. The Sequoia also has a larger cargo capacity, with 120.1 cubic feet behind the first row of seats compared to 113.7 cubic feet in the Explorer.
However, the Explorer’s interior is more versatile, thanks to its optional third row of seats that can be folded down to create a flat load floor. The Sequoia, on the other hand, has a permanent third row of seats that cannot be removed.
Performance: Sequoia’s Power vs Explorer’s Efficiency
Under the hood, the Toyota Sequoia comes with a standard 5.7-liter V8 engine that generates 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine provides ample acceleration and towing capabilities, with a maximum towing capacity of 7,400 pounds.
The Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options, including a standard 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, and a 3.3-liter hybrid V6 engine. The hybrid model provides the best fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined, while the V6 engines offer more power and towing capacity. The Explorer’s maximum towing capacity is 5,600 pounds.
Off-Road Capabilities: Sequoia’s Ruggedness vs Explorer’s Technology
Both the Toyota Sequoia and Ford Explorer offer off-road capabilities, but the Sequoia has a slight edge in this department. The Sequoia comes standard with a rear-wheel-drive system and a part-time four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case. The Explorer, on the other hand, comes standard with a front-wheel-drive system and an optional all-wheel-drive system.
The Sequoia also has a more rugged suspension system, with a solid rear axle and coil springs. The Explorer’s suspension system is more comfortable on-road, but it may not be as capable on rough terrain.
Technology and Features: Sequoia’s Simplicity vs Explorer’s Connectivity
Inside the cabin, the Toyota Sequoia offers a straightforward and user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as navigation and a premium audio system.
The Ford Explorer’s infotainment system is more advanced, with a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen display and a more intuitive interface. The system includes Ford‘s SYNC 4 system, which offers a wide range of features, including voice recognition, cloud-based navigation, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Safety Features: Sequoia’s Standard Protection vs Explorer’s Advanced Technology
Both the Toyota Sequoia and Ford Explorer come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The Sequoia also comes standard with a rearview camera and the Toyota Safety Sense P system, which includes lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
The Explorer offers a more advanced suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams. The Explorer also has the option for adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology and a 360-degree camera system.
Price and Value: Sequoia’s Premium vs Explorer’s Affordability
The Toyota Sequoia has a higher starting price than the Ford Explorer, with an MSRP of $58,825 compared to $34,840 for the Explorer. However, the Sequoia comes with a more powerful engine, a more spacious interior, and a more rugged off-road suspension system.
The Explorer offers a wider range of trim levels and engine options, which allows buyers to customize their vehicle to their specific needs and budget. The Explorer also has a lower cost of ownership, with lower fuel consumption and maintenance costs.
Final Note: Choosing the Right SUV for Your Needs
The Toyota Sequoia and Ford Explorer are both excellent choices for families and adventure seekers who need a spacious and capable SUV. The Sequoia offers more space, power, and off-road capabilities, while the Explorer offers more versatility, fuel efficiency, and advanced technology.
Ultimately, the best SUV for you will depend on your individual needs and priorities. If you prioritize space, power, and off-road performance, the Toyota Sequoia is the better choice. If you prioritize versatility, fuel efficiency, and advanced technology, the Ford Explorer is the better choice.
Frequently Asked Questions: Toyota Sequoia vs Ford Explorer
Q: Which SUV has more horsepower?
A: The Toyota Sequoia has more horsepower, with 381 horsepower compared to 300 horsepower in the Ford Explorer.
Q: Which SUV has a higher towing capacity?
A: The Toyota Sequoia has a higher towing capacity, with a maximum of 7,400 pounds compared to 5,600 pounds in the Ford Explorer.
Q: Which SUV has a larger cargo capacity?
A: The Toyota Sequoia has a larger cargo capacity, with 120.1 cubic feet behind the first row of seats compared to 113.7 cubic feet in the Ford Explorer.
Q: Which SUV has a more advanced infotainment system?
A: The Ford Explorer has a more advanced infotainment system, with a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen display and a more intuitive interface.
Q: Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
A: The Ford Explorer has a better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined compared to 22 mpg combined in the Toyota Sequoia.