
Ford Explorer vs Toyota Highlander
When it is time to get a new SUV, you'll want to make sure the model you pick offers the space, features, and performance you need. That is why our Crest Ford team is here to give you a closer look at the Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander. This side-by-side view will help you see which model is suited best for your travels around Detroit, Sterling Heights, and Warren, Michigan.
2023 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander

Explorer vs Highlander: Interior Space
With your new SUV, you'll want to make sure you have enough room for carpool duties as well as when you are loading up for a road trip. Let's see what sort of space these two models offer:
Dimension | Ford Explorer | Toyota Highlander |
Passenger Volume | 152.7 cubic feet | 141.3 cubic feet |
Cargo Volume (Behind Third Row) | 18.2 cubic feet | 16 cubic feet |
Cargo Volume (Behind First Row) | 87.8 cubic feet | 84.3 cubic feet |
As you can see, there will be more room for you and your passengers inside the Explorer. While both vehicles let you fold down seats to fit various items and supplies, the Ford Explorer offers more room for your cargo overall.

What Technology Features Can You Get?
Along with the space these SUVs provide, they each have an infotainment system that lets you do everything, from streaming music right from your phone to using your phone's navigation app to look up directions.
The 2022 Explorer even comes standard with a tri-zone electronic automatic temperature control system and offers available massaging seats for the front row. The Highlander also has a 3-zone automatic climate control system, but it doesn't offer massaging seats.
Beyond that, they each offer safety technologies to help you as you travel along the highways or through town. When you need to back into a spot or parallel park, the 2022 Explorer is able to do so for you.
With available Active Park Assist 2.0, all you have to do is push down a button and then the Ford Explorer will work its way safely into the open space. The Highlander doesn't offer automatic parking, so you'll be on your own when attempting to park into tight spots.
Performance Capabilities of the Highlander vs Explorer
Going to be towing with your new vehicle? The Highlander can pull along up to 5,000 pounds, while the Ford Explorer has a maximum towing capacity of 5,300 pounds. There is even a special trim level that the Explorer offers to give you true off-roading capabilities. With the Timberline, you'll have:
- 8.7-inch ground clearance
- All-terrain tires
- Steel skid plates
- TORSEN® limited-slip rear differential
- Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management System™
While the 2022 Toyota Highlander has an available AWD system with Multi-Terrain Select, it doesn't come with all the added systems and features the Explorer Timberline has. This means, it won't offer the same level of rugged off-roading performance that you can get with the 2022 Explorer.

Time to Get Your New SUV!
With a closer look at the Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander, you now have a better idea what these two models provide as you drive around Detroit, Sterling Heights, and Warren, MI.
If you'd prefer the added capabilities, technology features, and space the 2022 Ford Explorer has, then you're ready to take the next steps! Contact us at Crest Ford to schedule a test drive in the Explorer and visit us to check out our inventory today.
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