2025 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander: A Head-to-Head Showdown in the Midsize SUV Arena
The midsize SUV segment is a battleground of practicality, comfort, and technology, with two titans consistently vying for dominance: the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander. Both vehicles have established themselves as reliable and capable family haulers, but with the 2025 model year upon us, how do these two behemoths stack up against each other?
This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the intricacies of the 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2025 Toyota Highlander, examining their performance, fuel efficiency, interior design, technology, safety features, and overall value proposition. We’ll analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each vehicle, ultimately helping you make an informed decision about which SUV best suits your needs and preferences.
Performance: A Tale of Two Powertrains
The 2025 Ford Explorer offers a wider range of powertrain options, catering to diverse driving styles and performance needs. The base model features a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving. For those seeking more grunt, a 3.0-liter V6 engine generating 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque is available, delivering a more spirited performance.
The Explorer also boasts a hybrid option, the Explorer ST-Line Hybrid, featuring a 3.3-liter V6 engine coupled with an electric motor, generating a combined 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain offers improved fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance, making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious drivers.
The 2025 Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, focuses on efficiency and reliability with a single powertrain option: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system. This setup produces a combined 243 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, delivering a smooth and responsive driving experience. While the Highlander’s power output may not be as impressive as the Explorer’s V6, its hybrid system provides exceptional fuel economy, making it a strong contender for those prioritizing fuel efficiency.
Fuel Efficiency: A Clear Winner Emerges
When it comes to fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander reigns supreme. Its hybrid powertrain boasts an impressive EPA-estimated rating of 36 mpg combined, significantly surpassing the Explorer’s hybrid offering, which achieves 27 mpg combined. The non-hybrid Explorer models fall behind even further, with the 2.3-liter engine achieving 22 mpg combined and the 3.0-liter V6 engine managing 21 mpg combined.
Interior Design: Comfort and Functionality Meet Style
Both the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander prioritize comfort and functionality in their interior design. The Explorer boasts a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for seven passengers, while the Highlander offers a slightly more refined and luxurious feel.
The Explorer’s interior features a modern and sleek design, with an intuitive layout and high-quality materials. Its dashboard is dominated by a large touchscreen infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster, adding a touch of modernity to the cabin. The Highlander, on the other hand, offers a more traditional interior design with a focus on practicality and comfort. Its cabin is spacious and well-appointed, with comfortable seats and ample storage space.
Technology: A Close Race with Different Strengths
Both the Explorer and the Highlander offer a comprehensive suite of technology features, but their approaches differ slightly. The Explorer leans towards a more advanced and sophisticated experience, while the Highlander focuses on user-friendliness and reliability.
The Explorer’s infotainment system is powered by Ford’s SYNC 4 system, which offers a responsive touchscreen interface, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a variety of connected car features. The Highlander’s infotainment system is powered by Toyota’s Entune 3.0 system, which provides a simpler and more intuitive interface with seamless smartphone integration.
In terms of driver assistance features, both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Explorer’s Co-Pilot360 suite includes advanced features like hands-free driving assist and a head-up display, while the Highlander’s Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite offers similar features with a slightly less sophisticated approach.
Safety Features: A Tie for Excellence
Both the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander excel in safety, earning top ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. They also come equipped with advanced safety features like driver attention monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and pedestrian detection.
Overall Value Proposition: A Matter of Priorities
The choice between the 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2025 Toyota Highlander ultimately boils down to your individual priorities. If you’re looking for a vehicle with powerful engine options and a more advanced technology suite, the Explorer might be the better choice. However, if fuel efficiency and reliability are your top concerns, the Highlander’s hybrid powertrain and proven reputation for durability make it a compelling option.
The Ford Explorer’s Strengths:
- More powerful engine options
- Advanced technology suite
- Modern and stylish interior design
- Spacious and comfortable cabin
The Ford Explorer’s Weaknesses:
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Higher starting price
- Some technology features can be complex to use
The Toyota Highlander’s Strengths:
- Exceptional fuel efficiency
- Reliable and durable engine
- Comfortable and spacious interior
- User-friendly technology
- Strong resale value
The Toyota Highlander’s Weaknesses:
- Less powerful engine
- Simpler technology suite
- Less stylish interior design
Conclusion: Choosing the Right SUV for You
Both the 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2025 Toyota Highlander are excellent midsize SUVs that offer a blend of practicality, comfort, and technology. The Explorer excels in performance and technology, while the Highlander shines in fuel efficiency and reliability. Ultimately, the best vehicle for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance and advanced technology, the Explorer is a compelling choice. However, if fuel efficiency and reliability are your top concerns, the Highlander’s hybrid powertrain and proven track record make it a strong contender.
By carefully considering the strengths and weaknesses of each vehicle, you can make an informed decision and choose the midsize SUV that best fits your lifestyle and driving needs.
