What the 2022 Ford Explorer Has that the 2022 Highlander Doesn’t
2022 Ford Explorer vs. 2022 Toyota Highlander: Which is Better for You?
If you have a large family, what’s not to love about a three-row SUV? Few of life’s pleasures match having ample space for all your loved ones and favorite gear when you’re on the open road. The 2022 Ford Explorer and 2022 Toyota Highlander are popular options in the large SUV market because they’re safe, reliable, and high-performing. However, the Ford Explorer offers some essential features lacking with the Toyota Highlander. So let’s explore why the 2022 Ford Explorer can better suit your lifestyle.
Which SUV Performs Better in Chicagoland: Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander
Ford has long been known for their robust engine technology, and the 2022 Ford Explorer is no exception. Its state-of-the-art 2.3L EcoBoost® engine produces more horsepower and torque than the Toyota Highlander 3.5L V6. As a result, the Ford Explorer reigns supreme for offroading, hill climbing, and towing capabilities.
The 2022 Ford Explorer takes first place in the performance standoff:
| SUV | 2022 Ford Explorer | 2022 Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Base engine: | 2.3L EcoBoost® | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower: | 300 hp | 295 hp |
| Torque: | 310 lb.-ft. | 263 lb.-ft. |
| Transmission: | 10-speed automatic | 8-speed electronically controlled automatic |
| Towing capacity: | 5,600 lbs | 5,000 lbs. |
Furthermore, you can optimize your Ford Explorer’s capabilities even further if you purchase the ST trim. Its 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 will leave the Highlander sitting in the dust.
Interior Space Comparison: 2022 Explorer vs. 2022 Highlander
While we commend the Toyota Highlander for having an impressive seating capacity for up to eight people, the Ford Explorer wins the interior space battle in several crucial aspects. The 2022 Explorer makes better use of its interior by providing the best maximum cargo volume, more room for your passengers to stretch out, and more room for your legs while driving.
The 2022 Ford Explorer’s optimized interior dimensions make it the superior SUV for road trips or shopping runs around Chicagoland:
| SUV | 2022 Ford Explorer | 2022 Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo volume behind 2nd row: | 47.9 cu.ft. | 48.4 cu.ft. |
| Cargo volume behind 3rd row: | 87.8 cu.ft. | 84.3 cu.ft. |
| Cargo volume behind 1st row: | 18.2 cu.ft. | 16.0 cu.ft. |
| Passenger volume: | 152.7 cu.ft. | 141.3 cu.ft. |
| Front row leg room: | 43 inches | 42 inches |
An Analysis of the 2022 Ford Explorer’s High-Performance Trims
The 2022 Ford Explorer provides superior offroading and performance capabilities because of its diverse trim lineup. For instance, the 2022 Explorer Timberline comes out of the gate ready to traverse the great outdoors. Must-have features like steel skid plates and 3.58 TORSEN® limited-slip rear differential ensure you can confidently tackle any terrain.
Alternatively, prepare yourself for exhilarating drives if you take home the 2022 Explorer ST. It cranks out a whopping 400 horsepower and 415 lb.-ft. of torque to achieve a top speed of 143 mph. Once you step inside its performance-inspired interior, you’ll have no choice but to push its abilities to the limit.
In conclusion, choose the 2022 Ford Explorer if you want better performance, more interior space, and a wider array of exciting trim options.
https://www.ford.com/suvs/explorer/
https://www.toyota.com/highlander/