2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered a diverse lineup with eight models ranging from $33,745 to $54,495, excluding destination charges. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline and luxurious King Ranch trims, and introduced the sporty ST-Line. The King Ranch model, tested with 4WD, Rapid Red paint, and a Premium Technology package, reached an MSRP of $59,880. Its design featured a rear-drive platform, long hood, and athletic appearance, with blacked-out roof pillars creating a "floating roof" effect. Inside, the King Ranch boasted exclusive Del Rio leather seating with King Ranch branding, though the cabin mixed quality materials with some less impressive ones.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid drew styling cues from the Tacoma, with a rugged trapezoidal grille and upright fascia. Its side profile softened with a character line over the rear wheel arch, but the design felt disjointed compared to competitors. Inside, the asymmetrical dash featured a metallic styling element and a high-mounted infotainment touchscreen. The Bronze Edition test vehicle had light grey fabric seats with a triangle motif, surrounded by Softex synthetic leather. The rear seating area used more hard plastics, typical for durability, but the third row was less comfortable. Despite styling critiques, the Highlander Hybrid remained appealing for its hybrid efficiency.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The base models featured a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic and RWD, with 4WD optional. It towed up to 5,300 pounds and achieved 24 mpg combined. The hybrid option, available on the Limited, combined a 3.3-liter V6 with electric motors for 318 hp and 322 lb-ft, towing 5,000 lbs and reaching 27 mpg combined. The twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6, standard on ST, Platinum, and King Ranch, delivered 400 hp and 415 lb-ft, towing 5,600 lbs with 21 mpg combined. The King Ranch test vehicle averaged 20.6 mpg. The Explorer excelled in off-road conditions with its robust ride and athletic handling.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid used a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT and standard FWD, with AWD available. It reached 60 mph in just over 8 seconds. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick start with electric motors, transitioning to the gasoline engine for sustained power. The CVT's drone was noticeable under heavy acceleration. Braking was smooth, with regenerative braking recharging the hybrid batteries. The Highlander Hybrid offered a soft ride, handling bumps well, and maintained a quiet cabin on highways, prioritizing comfort over sportiness.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided comfort for families of four, with optional second-row bench seating for five. The King Ranch model featured triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and massaging front seats. The third row was less accessible for adults, with limited legroom. Storage was limited, with missed opportunities for practical pockets and shelves. The King Ranch had a hands-free power liftgate, offering 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 87.8 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, with ample adjustments. Storage was plentiful, with trays and bins for personal items. The second-row seats offered generous space and versatility, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats stowed.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with 8-inch and 10.1-inch touchscreens. The King Ranch model included FordPass Connect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. The Sync 3 system showed limitations in voice recognition, struggling with navigation commands. Additional tech included a 12.3-inch digital display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option on higher trims. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and climate controls. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa were standard, with wireless charging on XLE trims and above. Navigation and a JBL audio system were available on higher trims.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The system operated smoothly, though lane-centering assist occasionally disengaged on sharp curves.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The systems generally performed well, though adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist required fine-tuning.