2021 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Ford Explorer presented a classic approach to SUV design, reminiscent of Ford's historical branding strategy. It shared a familial resemblance with other Ford SUVs, characterized by sporty lines and distinctive grilles that varied across its six trim levels. The Explorer's interior offered three rows of seating, with the base model featuring cloth upholstery and a clean dashboard layout. The XLT trim, popular among buyers, provided enhanced features like a power front passenger seat and improved finishes.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid showcased a bold design with a distinctive front end and floating roof appearance. Its styling, while initially polarizing, aimed to remain unique over time. The Highlander Hybrid offered a range of trims, with the Limited trim providing upscale features like leather upholstery and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. However, the interior had some drawbacks, such as a less comfortable third row and limited storage options compared to its predecessor.

The 2021 Ford Explorer offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The Limited Hybrid variant increased power to 310 hp, while higher trims featured a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6, with the ST trim boasting 400 hp. The Explorer excelled in towing capacity, ranging from 5,000 to 5,600 pounds, making it a strong contender for those needing towing power.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, on the other hand, focused on fuel efficiency with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, achieving 36 mpg combined. It produced 243 hp, with AWD available as an option. While the Highlander Hybrid improved in efficiency, it sacrificed driving enjoyment, with a strained engine sound during acceleration and lifeless steering. The regenerative brakes were an improvement, but the ride quality suffered on uneven roads.

The Ford Explorer provided seating for seven, with captain’s chairs reducing capacity to six in higher trims. It offered 39 inches of second-row legroom and 21 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in use. However, its total cargo volume of 81 cubic feet was less impressive compared to competitors.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered comfortable front seating with power adjustments and leather upholstery in higher trims. The second-row bench seat increased capacity to eight but felt cramped. The third row was uncomfortable, with limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space measured 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded, though storage options were less generous than before.

The Ford Explorer came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G WiFi hotspot. Higher trims offered a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. Charging options included USB ports and multiple power points, with a wireless charging pad available from the Limited trim.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen in higher trims, with an 11-speaker JBL audio system and navigation. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa connectivity. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the JBL system's sound quality varied. Additional features included Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror for enhanced visibility.

The Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard features like Ford Co-Pilot360, offering blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid included Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, with features like intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring was standard from the LE trim, with additional safety features available in higher trims. The Highlander received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was expected to achieve a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.