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When you enter the market for a three-row SUV, certain requirements are obvious. It must be engineered for safety, with smart driver assistance systems to help guard against road hazards. It must also provide plenty of space for everyone onboard. A good SUV should cover more than the basics, of course, and the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer have both been redesigned for 2020 to build on the class standards. There can be only one winner, though, so let’s compare these vehicles to see which one is right for you.
Toyota knows that high value doesn’t have to demand a high price, and the Highlander offers all its versatility, safety, and comfort for a lower starting price than the base Explorer. You also stand to save a considerable amount even if you’re looking for a higher trim level, as the Highlander maintains a more affordable price point than its rival as you explore their upgrades and options. Toyota’s SUV can also glean more distance per gallon than its competitor on the highway.
Thanks to a comprehensive redesign, the Highlander now sports a fresh new look within its open and airy cabin, with high-quality materials from the dash to the rear door. Even the starting trim presents a handsome fit and finish with upscale furnishings, plush seating in all three rows, and an abundance of legroom. On the other hand, a 2020 redesign might not be as apparent when you enter the Ford Explorer. Despite the opportunity to update the interior design, the SUV arrives with an uninspiring plain cabin with hard plastic materials throughout. While the back row isn’t cramped, its unusually low seating arrangement might make it difficult for passengers to find a comfortable riding position.
A modern SUV should offer a variety of technology options to make travel fun and easy, and both the Highlander and Explorer come with touchscreen infotainment systems. Each vehicle also has popular features like a Wi-Fi hotspot and smartphone connectivity via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay®. The standard touchscreen on either model is easy to use with responsive controls, but you’ll notice a stark difference if you opt for their available upgraded screens. The Highlander’s optional 12.3-inch touchscreen is also intuitive and well designed, but the Explorer’s available 10.1-inch vertical touchscreen doesn’t make the best use of the additional console space it occupies. Critics have lamented the decision to split screen space between settings and app controls, which leaves neither with enough space to be utilized efficiently.
The Highlander is ready and waiting for you here at Thomasville Toyota. If you’d like to come by the dealership to see it for yourself, we’ll be glad to show you all that this spacious SUV can do for you and your passengers. One of our Toyota experts will take you on a vehicle walk-around to go over all its features and tools, and you’re welcome to hop in the driver’s seat for a test drive. When you’ve picked out the trim and options that meet your needs and interests, we’ll also help you set up a hassle-free financing plan. You can even apply online to get things rolling before your visit!
