Toyota Highlander vs. Ford Explorer: Which is More Reliable?

In this modern age of transportation, SUVs have a unique identity in cars. Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander are among the best SUVs nowadays, and many people get confused while selecting the best option between the both. Here's an in-depth look at which vehicle is more reliable: Toyota Highlander or Ford Explorer?

The differences between the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer are Listed below regarding performance, safety, interior, and exterior.

1. Performance

Ford Explorer offers three engines, which include a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that gives 300 horsepower; a twin-turbocharged V6 that delivers maximum performance; and a high powertrain that combines a non-turbocharged V6 with an electric motor. The hybrid engine is just limited to the limited model as the other model does not have hybrid engines which lower the EPA of the car.

The Toyota Highlander comes up with two engines, including a conventional V6 engine that offers 295 horsepower and a hybrid version that combines with four-cylinder engines and a couple of motors placed under the seats. The hybrid engine is available in all models of Highlanders. While using the V6 engine, the car gives an EPA of almost 24 miles per gallon, and if you use the car in hybrid mode, it provides an EPA of nearly 36 miles per gallon.

2. Safety

Toyota Highlander offers many safety features, including a pre-collision system to alert the driver before it collides with an object or another vehicle, whether it be day or night. It also has a lane departure alert with the automatic shifting of beans from high to low and low to high, depending on the surrounding. It also has road sign assist, which helps drivers with the signs such as speed limit etc.

The Ford Explorer does not come up with a pre-collision system but has co-pilot 360, which provides you a view of the surroundings and has a steering assist that helps the driver in emergencies.

3. Interior

The Toyota Highlander provides eight comfortable seats with proper leg spaces, which increases the comfort level for the passengers. Highlanders have a head-up display that increases the driver's view so that the surroundings can be seen appropriately. This car also comes with a digital rearview mirror. In addition to increasing the visibility at night, the digital rearview eliminates glare from vehicle headlights.

The Ford Explorer comes up with seating for seven persons with proper leg spaces. But people have found it difficult to reach the third row of seats due to less space. The Explorer does not have a digital rear mirror view, but it comes up with a camera that provides a rear look on the digital panel.

4. Exterior

The Toyota Highlander has a classy exterior which gives them a premium look. The car has led lights that provide clear visibility in any weather conditions. The Highlander comes up with an intelligent key that helps you unlock the vehicle with only a finger touch.

The Ford Explorer also has a classy exterior with led lights just like the Highlander, but there are no smart key options which is a bit disadvantage for the user in this modern age.

Which Is More Reliable?

According to the facts explained above, the Toyota Highlander is a better option than the Ford Explorer as it has more safety features and more EPA than the Ford Explorer. Many people consider the Toyota Highlander to be underpowered, but its reliable V6 engine coupled with a hybrid powertrain can handle any situation.

Which One Should I Buy?

If you are confused between Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer, then you should go with Toyota Highlander——"A Safe Choice." Because the Toyota Highlander is the best three-row midsize SUV thanks to its reliability, safety, and value retention. However, the Ford Explorer should be your pick if acceleration, driving experience, and towing capability are priorities.