2025 Toyota Highlander vs 2026 Ford Explorer
Comparison Overview
Choosing between the 2025 Toyota Highlander and the 2026 Ford Explorer often comes down to prioritizing established reliability versus seeking slightly more performance and size. If you are focused on fuel economy for your daily drive, the Highlander offers a slightly better combined EPA rating of 25 MPG compared to the Explorer's 24 MPG, though both utilize regular unleaded fuel. The Ford Explorer counters with a healthy 300 hp, outgunning the Highlander’s 265 hp, while both share an identical 310 lb-ft of torque. Despite being nearly four inches longer (198.8 inches vs. 194.9 inches), the Explorer offers only negligibly more cargo space at 16.3 cu ft versus the Highlander's 16 cu ft. However, the Explorer's higher initial MSRP of $38,330 undercuts the Highlander's starting price of $40,320, making the decision a balancing act between fuel efficiency and upfront cost/power.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2025 Toyota Highlander
The Highlander wins for commuters due to its marginally better combined fuel economy of 25 MPG.
2026 Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is marginally better for families due to its slightly larger exterior dimensions and 16.3 cu ft of cargo capacity.
2026 Ford Explorer
The Explorer appeals more to enthusiasts with 300 hp, significantly beating the Highlander's 265 hp output.
2026 Ford Explorer
The Explorer offers superior power and a larger body for a lower starting MSRP of $38,330 compared to $40,320.
Choose the Toyota Highlander if...
- You need the best possible fuel efficiency, scoring 29 MPG highway.
- You prefer the stability and familiar handling dynamics of front-wheel drive.
- You want the proven reputation of the Toyota Highlander nameplate.
Choose the Ford Explorer if...
- You need the maximum available power, boasting 300 horsepower.
- You prioritize the initial savings provided by the lower MSRP of $38,330.
- You prefer the gearing spread provided by the Explorer’s 10-speed automatic transmission.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Toyota Highlander | Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 194.9" | 198.8" |
| Width | 76.0" | 78.9" |
| Height | 68.1" | 69.9" |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 119.1" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Toyota | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Departure Warning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | — |
| Front Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Third Row Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electronic Stability Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Traction Control System | ✓ | ✓ |
| LATCH System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Solid Disc Brakes | ✓ | — |
| Brake Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | ✓ | ✓ |
| LED Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Daytime Running Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Fog Lights | ✓ | — |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | ✓ | — |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 2 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | — |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Attention Alert | — | ✓ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags (with Head Protection Chamber) | — | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes | — | ✓ |
| Brake Preparation System | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Toyota | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 2.4 L | 2.3 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 4 | inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | gas | gas |
| Horsepower | 265 hp @ 6000 rpm | 300 hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm | 310 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | ✓ | ✓ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Toyota | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | front wheel drive | rear wheel drive |
Fuel
| Feature | Toyota | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded | regular unleaded |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 22/29 MPG | 20/29 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 25 MPG | 24 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 393.8/519.1 mi. | 358.0/519.1 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 17.9 gal. | 17.9 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Toyota | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electric Power Steering | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| 3rd Row Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Overhead Console with Storage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Seatback Storage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Leather Steering Wheel | ✓ | — |
| Three Zone Climate Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts with Fan Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Interior Air Filtration | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | ✓ | — |
| Rear Parking Sensors | — | ✓ |
| Manual Rear Seat Easy Entry | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Toyota | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 8.0 in | — |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Speaker System | 6 | 6 |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | ✓ | — |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | ✓ | — |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | 3 months | 3 months |
| Android Auto (Wired) | — | ✓ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wired) | — | ✓ |
| Speed Sensitive Volume Control | — | ✓ |
Power Feature
| Feature | Toyota | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 2 |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Toyota | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 41.2 in. | 40.7 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 42.0 in. | 43.0 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 59.0 in. | 61.8 in. |
| Front Hip Room | 57.2 in. | 59.2 in. |
| Seat Material: Cloth | ✓ | — |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | 6-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Manual Adjustments | 4-way | 4-way |
| Seat Material: Premium Cloth | — | ✓ |
Rearseats
| Feature | Toyota | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 39.4 in. | 40.5 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 38.7 in. | 39.0 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 58.7 in. | 61.9 in. |
| Rear Hip Room | 57.0 in. | 59.1 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | — |
| Reclining Rear Seats | ✓ | ✓ |
| Folding Center Armrest | ✓ | ✓ |
| Manual Folding Third Row Seat | ✓ | ✓ |
| Folding Rear Seatback | — | ✓ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Toyota | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Finish | Painted Alloy | Painted Alloy |
| Wheel Diameter | 18 in | 18 in |
| Tire Type | All Season | All Season |
| Tire Size | P235/65R V | P255/65R18 |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Spare Tire Location | Underbody Mounted | Underbody Mounted |
Suspension
| Feature | Toyota | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
Warranty
| Feature | Toyota | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 2 yr./ unlimited mi. | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | 2 yr./ 25000 mi. | — |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Toyota Highlander and 2026 Ford Explorer.
How do the power differences between the Highlander and Explorer affect daily driving?
The 2026 Ford Explorer boasts 300 hp, giving it a noticeable 35 hp advantage over the Highlander's 265 hp. While both offer the same 310 lb-ft of torque, the Explorer should feel punchier during highway merges and acceleration runs.
Is the fuel economy difference worth considering for my commute?
The 2025 Highlander provides a slight edge with a combined 25 MPG versus the Explorer's 24 MPG. If you drive long distances frequently, that single MPG difference using regular unleaded fuel can add up over a year.
Which vehicle is technically bigger inside or out?
The 2026 Ford Explorer is physically larger, measuring 198.8 inches long compared to the Highlander's 194.9 inches, and it is also wider and taller. This translates to a marginal advantage in cargo, with the Explorer offering 16.3 cu ft versus 16 cu ft for the Highlander.
Why is the starting price different between these two crossovers?
The 2026 Ford Explorer starts at $38,330, making it $1,990 cheaper than the 2025 Toyota Highlander's $40,320 MSRP. Buyers need to weigh this upfront saving against the Highlander's better fuel economy.
What is the main difference in how these vehicles are driven (transmission/drive type)?
The Highlander uses a standard 8-speed automatic transmission paired with front-wheel drive. In contrast, the Explorer features a 10-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with rear-wheel drive, which generally offers a different feel, especially when cornering.
Can I use the same grade of fuel in both models?
Yes, both the 2025 Toyota Highlander and the 2026 Ford Explorer are specified to run on regular unleaded fuel, which simplifies ownership costs.
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