2017 Toyota Highlander vs 2017 Ford Explorer

Drivers in the market for a new family SUV have a variety of great options to choose from. The class is jam-packed with viable options, but we think none are better than the 2017 Toyota Highlander and the 2017 Ford Explorer. These two full-size SUVs get better and better with each model year, and we think it’s clear why they are sitting at the top of their competitive class.

Both the 2017 Toyota Highlander and the 2017 Ford Explorer come with spacious interiors, strong V6 engine options, attractive exteriors and comfortable cabins. So what features and specs set these two family SUVs apart from the rest of their competitive class, and which one has the competitive edge over the other? Read on for more information!

View Our Inventory

The 2017 Ford Explorer comes in five trim levels: Explorer, XLT, Limited, Sport and Platinum. The Explorer and XLT trims come standard 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine that makes 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque, while the Limited trim has standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder that produces 280 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Looking for more power? You’ll want to opt for the Sport or Platinum. Both trims come standard with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine that generates 365 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. Looking for safety features? The 2017 Ford Explorer comes available with safety features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning with Brake Support and the Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert that will cost you a little bit extra.

The 2017 Toyota Highlander comes in eight trim levels so drivers can choose what best fits their needs. Trim levels include the LE, LE Plus, XLE, SE, Limited, Hybrid LE, Hybrid XLE and Hybrid Limited. The LE trim comes standard with a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 185 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque, but don’t worry if you’re looking for more power. The LE, LE Plus, XLE, SE and Limited trims all come standard with a 3.50liter V6 engine that makes 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. All Hybrid trims come standard with a fuel-efficient 3.5-liter V6 EVCT Hybrid engine that has an EPA estimated fuel economy rating of 30/28 mpg city/highway. All trims of the 2017 Toyota Highlander come standard with advanced safety features like the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beams and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Yes, you read that right. Those safety features won’t cost you any extra. Additional standard safety features include Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, the Anti-lock Brake System, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, the Tire Pressure Monitor System, Smart Stop Technology and Hill Start Assist Control.

Drivers looking a new family SUV should take a look at both the 2017 Ford Explorer and the 2017 Toyota Highlander. While both are sure to impress, we think it’s clear the 2017 Toyota Highlander has the competitive edge. With more standard safety features, a lower MSRP, a higher fuel economy rating and a higher passenger capacity, the 2017 Toyota Highlander really can’t be beat.