2023 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander

2021 Ford Explorer vs 2022 Toyota Highlander

2023 Ford Explorer

vs.

2023 Toyota Highlander
Yes

3rd-Row Seating

Yes
2.3L EcoBoost I-4 Engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology

Standard Engine

2.4-liter 4-cylinder Turbo Engine
300 Horsepower

Horsepower

265 Horsepower
10-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission

8-speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission
23 mpg city / 28 mpg highway

MPG

22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway

On the market for a new SUV? Compare the Explorer vs. Highlander and compare engine specs, seating capacity, and fuel economies for both of these popular SUVs. Learn more about the differences between both the Explorer and Highlander below before exploring your financing options with Northside Ford’s finance center.

 

 

Explorer vs. Highlander: Performance Specs

SUVs can be pretty powerful vehicles, and many San Antonio drivers are curious about what’s under the hood when choosing their next new SUV near San Antonio. Both the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander are very comparable powertrains with their biggest differences being horsepower when comparing base engine models. New Braunfels drivers will notice that the Ford Explorer enjoys more horsepower, and it offers two optional engines depending on your selected trim.

2023 Ford Explorer

    • 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 Engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology
    • 300 horsepower
    • 310 lb-ft of torque
    • Available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 & 3.3L Hybrid engine options
    • 10-speed automatic transmission

    2023 Toyota Highlander

    • 2.4-liter 4-cylinder Turbo Engine
    • 265 horsepower
    • 310 lb-ft of torque
    • 8-speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission

    Explorer vs. Highlander: Cargo Room & Seating Capacity

    Both the Explorer and Highlander boast three-rowing seating, and they both have great cargo room for daily errands and weekend fun. The Toyota Highlander does offer seating for eight passengers while the Ford Explorer offers seven-person seating. The Ford Explorer offers more overall cargo room, and its dimensions are quite generous:

    2023 Ford Explorer

    • Seating capacity: 7 passengers
    • Cargo Space (Behind 3rd/2nd/1st row): 18.2/47.9/87.8 cubic feet

    2023 Toyota Highlander

    • Seating capacity: 8 passengers
    • Cargo Space (Behind 3rd/2nd/1st row): 16.0/ 48.4/84.3 cubic feet

    Explorer vs. Highlander: Fuel Economy

    The Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander also have very comparable fuel economies. The Ford Explorer is slightly better for city driving while the Toyota Highlander is slightly better for highway driving. These are very minor differences, but the Ford Explorer does offer a hybrid engine option for increased mpg ratings. Take a look at each base model’s mpg ratings below:

    • 2023 Ford Explorer- 23 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
    • 2023 Toyota Highlander- 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway 

    Explore Your SUV Options Today at Northside Ford

    At Northside Ford, we offer plenty of reliable Ford vehicles, including the Ford Explorer. We think you’ll agree that the 2023 Ford Explorer is a safe, solid option in terms of performance, seating, cargo room, fuel efficiency, and in towing specs. Our team is ready to take you on your next test drive, so contact us online or call us at (210) 319-5684 today!

 

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