2020 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander

Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander Ford of Dalton

Both the 2020 Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander are competing to win the SUV game for the new year with fresh technology and incredible safety features. While each has its own perks, check out this side by side comparison to figure out which one really wins out in its class.

Exterior and Engine

Both the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander have moved increasingly toward more eco-friendly options, but the 2020 Explorer redesigned their entire engine lineup to offer a standard 2.3L EcoBoost turbo engine, a 3.3L V6 hybrid engine, and lastly a 365-hp twin-turbo V6 option for the Platinum model and trim package. All engine options come with rear wheel drive or 4WD and a 10-speed transmission. The towing ability of the Explorer really makes it stand out in its class with a capacity up to 5,600 lbs. Plus, with rear-wheel drive and an extended wheelbase from the previous year (almost 6 inches), it makes for much more controlled maneuvering and handling.

The Highlander also had a redesign for 2020, though it seems more reminiscent of previous models. It offers two engine options — the standard, a 3.5L V6 with 8-speed transmission, and a hybrid version, a 2.5L four cylinder with continuously variable transmission (CVT). All Highlander trim packages are equipped with front wheel drive or all-wheel drive and can tow up to 5,000 lbs.

Interior and Tech Features

Much of the interior and tech features of the Highlander and the Explorer are similar and preference really dictates what each consumer would enjoy more, but let’s talk specifics for each model.

Some of the most important places in a vehicle for drivers are the dashboard and control panel. In the Explorer, these areas have been modified to suit the modern driver, with a digital instrument panel featuring the gas gauge, speedometer, and odometer. To the right of the wheel, the Explorer hosts an 8-inch landscape infotainment system (base and Limited models) that sits forward, rather than being buried back in a covered shelf. In the ST and Platinum, there’s a 10.1-in. portrait screen with a tablet-esque feel. Temperature control, volume, and tuning can all be achieved with the knobs underneath the infotainment system (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible), which help cut down on the number of touches necessary while driving.

It also hosts several USB and USB-C ports around the cabin, and even includes a wireless charging pad tucked under the center console so you can easily access it and keep your phone safe at the same time. Car seat anchors are incredibly accessible in the new Explorer, juice box holders are up near each of the rear seats, a floor-level console sits between the captain’s chairs to give easy access to the rear, and it’s designed with top of its class cargo space, giving this SUV a nod to its family beginnings.

The Highlander can seat 8, in comparison to the Explorer’s 6 or 7 seats (based on configuration), but with similar interior space, it mostly means tighter quarters for passengers. The infotainment system comes base with an 8-inch infotainment system, like the Explorer, but moves to a 12.3-inch landscape display in the Limited and Platinum models. The infotainment system is (finally) equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and an optional wireless phone charger.

2020 Explorer from Ford of Dalton in Dalton GA

Safety Features

Both the Highlander and the Explorer come with fantastic safety features including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, cross traffic alert, lane keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and rearview camera. Both also are equipped with automatic high beams, though the Explorer also has lights that point multi-directionally to allow light to aim toward the road, even around corners. The Explorer also offers a heads up display on some of the more premium models that shows navigation and alerts directly above the steering wheel in a small and discreet display to help drivers keep their eyes on the road.

Test Drive the Winner: 2020 Ford Explorer at Ford of Dalton in Dalton, GA

While both of these vehicles offer plenty of smart and convenient features, the 2020 Ford Explorer wins out in towing capacity, engine options, safety features, and cargo space. But don’t just take our word for it — see for yourself at Ford of Dalton off Shugart Rd. and test drive one today!

2020 Ford Explorer from Ford of Dalton in Dalton, GA

Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license charges. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.

Although every reasonable effort has been made to insure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. All prices plus tax, tag, title and $699 dealer fee. Customer selected options cost extra.