Which will your family prefer, the 2025 Ford Explorer or Toyota Highlander? Keep reading for an in-depth comparison of these three-row midsize SUVs. Before the end, you'll know which model belongs in your driveway!
Key Takeaways
- For comfy cruising and smart technology, both models come highly recommended!
- Both SUVs are powerful, but the Explorer ultimately delivers maximum muscle.
- With greater off-road capabilities, the Explorer boosts your potential for lowland adventure!
- Thanks to its friendly MSRP, the Explorer (from $35,676*) can help you save more money than the Pathfinder (starting at $45,870*) -- a lot more!
Comfort & Tech: It's a Tie!
Besides three rows of roomy comfort, these SUVs also treat you to a range of modern amenities. For instance, both models offer cool summer cruising with standard three-zone automatic climate control. Luxury upgrades -- including leather seating and front-seat ventilation -- are also available!
Better still, both the 2026 Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander come standard with a healthy dose of in-cabin technology. Smartphone-savvy infotainment is standard on both models (though the Explorer comes standard with a bigger touchscreen). And a host of safety aids alert you to potential problems. Want some upgrades? Check out the Highlander's 11-speaker JBL audio or the Explorer's 14-speaker B&O sound system!
Premium Power: 2026 Ford Explorer
With two powerful engine options (and up to 400 horses!) available, the Explorer is the best midsize SUV for sporty endeavors. Better still, the Explorer somehow manages to deliver both more power and better highway fuel economy than the Highlander!
Power is one thing, but should you choose the Ford Explorer or Toyota Highlander for everyday driving? Sure, both three-row SUVs provide a smooth, composed ride. But the Explorer offers something you can't get from the Highlander at all -- hands-free driving technology. Add Ford's BlueCruise system to your Explorer for a whole new take on highway cruising!
2026 Explorer vs. Highlander: Powertrain Specs
| Trim Model |
2026 Ford Explorer |
2026 Toyota Highlander |
| Engine |
Turbo 2.3L inline four-cylinder (300 hp, 311 lb-ft) |
Turbo 2.4L four-cylinder (265 hp, 310 lb-ft) |
| Optional Engine |
Turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft) |
None |
| Transmission |
10-speed automatic |
Eight-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain |
Standard RWD or optional AWD |
AWD |
| Max Trailer |
5,000 lbs |
5,000 lbs |
| Max EPA Ratings |
24 mpg combined (20 city/29 highway) |
24 mpg combined (21 city/28 highway) |
Rugged Adventure: 2026 Ford Explorer
For North Louisiana families who can't get enough of our infamous Sportsman's Paradise, the Explorer is the top contender. Not only is this midsize SUV big on power, but it offers an extra-rugged trim model: the Tremor. This SUV tackles remote off-road terrain with standard all-wheel drive and a lifted suspension (not to mention its optional 400-horsepower turbo V6)!
While the Highlander doesn't offer a trail-friendly trim model, it helps you keep your footing on sandy terrain with standard all-wheel drive. Of course, the Highlander does offer a sportier (on the pavement, anyway) option with its XSE trim. Similar to the Explorer ST (though without the 400-horsepower V6), the Highlander XSE's sport-tuned suspension makes highway driving a little more entertaining!
Budget-Friendly MSRP: 2026 Ford Explorer
After all that, it's hard to believe that the 2026 Explorer (from $35,676*) starts at a much lower price than the Highlander (from $45,870*). But it's true! In spite of providing more power and an impressive dose of comfort and convenience, the Explorer keeps costs way down.
*MSRP on 5/5/26. Subject to change.
Your Brand New Midsize SUV
If you're like us, you won't want to miss the 2026 Ford Explorer! Visit us at Banner Ford of Monroe, LA, to test-drive this family-favorite midsize SUV.