2021 Ford Explorer Vs 2021 Toyota Highlander

Compare the 2021 Ford Explorer to the 2021 Toyota Highlander near Winneconne, WI


Midsize SUVs are perfect for families that need a vehicle they all can use. Find excellent power, space, and safety features all-around when you look at top models like the 2021 Ford Explorer and 2021 Toyota Highlander. However, when you compare the Explorer to the Highlander, you will begin to notice differences. These differences show that the Explorer rises above the Highlander in quality. Compare the two SUVs to see how the 2021 Ford Explorer comes out on top.

Highlander and explorer

Powertrain

2021 Ford Explorer

When it comes to the powertrain, the Explorer readily takes the cake. It features three powerful engines. These engines include a turbocharged 300-horsepower engine, a twin-turbocharged V6 engine 365-horsepower engine, and a twin-turbocharged 400 horsepower engine. Each is plenty powerful for everyday drives around town and for taking the family on the trip. Each one is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly. And, luckily, when the Explorer is properly equipped, it can tow up to 5,600 pounds.

2021 Toyota Highlander

The Highlander falls behind each of the Explorer's engines. It comes with a single standard engine, a V6 that pumps out 295 horsepower. That is still decent power, however, and it delivers sharp acceleration and an eight-speed transmission. Yet, when it comes to towing, it can only tow up to 5,000 pounds. That's much less than the Explorer.


Interior Quality

2021 Ford Explorer

When it comes to the quality of the cabin, the Explorer features attractive interior styling. This SUV can comfortably accommodate up to seven people, with tall adults getting ample room to stretch out in the front seats. For items and luggage, drives can find 87.8 cubic feet of space in total, with the second and third rows folded down.

2021 Toyota Highlander

The Highlander is similar to the Explorer, though it loses out on a few points. For example, while the Highlander can comfortably fit up to eight people, the moonroof cuts into headspace, meaning taller adults will find it more difficult to relax. The cabin is also attractive, but in lower trims, there are noticeable amounts of plastic used.


Safety and Security

2021 Ford Explorer

The Explorer, like many of its Ford siblings, comes with the Ford Co-Pilot360™, an onboard suite of safety and security features that keep drivers on their toes. Take Auto High-Beam Headlamps, for example. These, as they sound, automatically switch the intensity of your lights based on your Explorer, sensing poor lighting conditions, allowing you to see better in the dark faster. Similarly, it features Reverse Brake Assist, which helps drivers to be aware of what is behind them when reversing. This assist can alert drivers to rear obstacles and apply the brakes if drivers do not apply them fast enough. There are plenty more features in this suite that keeps drivers in the know and helps them avoid potential incidents.

2021 Toyota Highlander

The Highlander keeps up with the Explorer in terms of safety and reliability. With Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+, the Highlander comes with similar technologies to the Explorer. For instance, this suite brings a Pre-Collision System with Low-Light Pedestrian Detection that helps drivers to avoid impacts with pedestrians or other vehicles in certain situations by employing a camera and radar. Plus, the Highlander detects speed limits with Road Sign Assist and displays them on the Multi-Information Display so drivers always know how fast they should be going.


Test Drive the 2021 Ford Explorer Today

Schedule a test drive for the 2021 Ford Explorer. This vehicle rises above the competition where it matters most. To see how it can work for you today.

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VIN: 1FMSK8DH8PGC29122
Stock: 70470
Model: K8D
Courtesy Vehicle
Ext.
Int.

Features

  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Remote Start
  • 4WD/AWD
  • Heated Seats
  • Keyless Entry
  • Keyless Ignition System

More Details

Dealer Comments
Heated Seats, NAV, Sunroof, 3rd Row Seat, Power Liftgate, 4x4, Quad Seats, XLT TECHNOLOGY PACKAGE, FORD CO-PILOT360 ASSIST+, TWIN PANEL MOONROOF. Carbonized Gray exterior and Ebony interior. FUEL EFFICIENT 27 MPG Hwy/20 MPG City!

KEY FEATURES INCLUDE
Third Row Seat, 4x4, Quad Bucket Seats, Power Liftgate, Rear Air Ford XLT with Carbonized Gray exterior and Ebony interior features a 4 Cylinder Engine with 300 HP at 5500 RPM*.

OPTION PACKAGES
EQUIPMENT GROUP 202A SecuriCode Keyless Entry Keypad, Acoustic-Laminated Front Side Windows, Remote Start System, Heated Steering Wheel, LED Fog Lamps, silver-painted front skid plate elements, XLT TECHNOLOGY PACKAGE grille w/black painted mesh insert and chrome bars, Auto-Dimming Interior Rearview Mirror, Class IV Trailer Tow Package, Universal Garage Door Opener (UGDO), Front Parking Sensors, 360-Degree Camera w/Split View, Wireless Charging Pad, Radio: B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen, 12 speakers and subwoofer, Sideview Mirrors w/Gloss Black Caps, power-folding w/Autofold, power and heated glass, LED turn signal indicators and security approach lamps, TWIN PANEL MOONROOF, WHEELS: 20 PREMIUM PAINTED ALUMINUM Tires: P255/55R20 AS BSW, FORD CO-PILOT360 ASSIST+ Speed Sign Recognition, Voice-Activated Touchscreen Navigation System, pinch-to-zoom capability, SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link, Note: SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link includes a 5-year prepaid subscription, SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link service is not available in Alaska or Hawaii, After your trial period ends, Sirius XM audio and data services each require a subscription sold separately, or as a package, by SiriusXM Radio Inc, See SiriusXM customer agreement for complete terms at www.siriusxm.com, All fees and programming subject to change, Trial subscriptions not available in Alaska and Hawaii, Evasive Steering Assist, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, stop-and-go and lane centering, TRANSMISSION: 10-SPEED AUTOMATIC (STD).

Horsepower calculations based on trim engine configuration. Fuel economy calculations based on original manufacturer data for trim engine configuration. Please confirm the accuracy of the included equipment by calling us prior to purchase.
  • $5,684 TOTAL SAVINGS
    $46,491 MARKET BASED PRICE

  • MSRP $52,175
  • -$500
    • $500
    • $500
    • 0.00% for 36 mo.


VIN: 1FMSK8JH8RGA20101
Stock: 80033
Model: K8J
Courtesy Vehicle
Ext.
Int.

Features

  • Remote Start
  • 4WD/AWD
  • Keyless Ignition System
  • Power Tailgate/Liftgate
  • Navigation System
  • Tow Hitch/Tow Package

More Details

Dealer Comments
Nav System, Moonroof, Third Row Seat, Heated Seats, Power Liftgate, 4x4, Quad Bucket Seats, Aluminum Wheels, Hitch, TIMBERLINE TECHNOLOGY PACKAGE, TRANSMISSION: 10-SPEED AUTOMATIC. Forged Green exterior and Deep Cypress interior.

KEY FEATURES INCLUDE
Third Row Seat, Navigation, 4x4, Quad Bucket Seats, Power Liftgate. Ford Timberline with Forged Green exterior and Deep Cypress interior features a 4 Cylinder Engine with 300 HP at 5500 RPM*.

OPTION PACKAGES
TWIN PANEL MOONROOF remote control front windows (opens front windows from outside of the vehicle via the key fob), TIMBERLINE TECHNOLOGY PACKAGE Auto-Dimming Interior Rearview Mirror, Universal Garage Door Opener (UGDO), 3rd Row PowerFold Seat, Folds flat, Wireless Charging Pad, 110V/150W AC Power Outlet, Replaces the powerpoint port on the rear side of the center floor console, Radio: B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen, MP3 capability, 12 speakers and subwoofer, Sideview Mirrors w/Gloss Black Caps, power-folding w/Autofold, power and heated glass and security approach lamps, TRANSMISSION: 10-SPEED AUTOMATIC (STD).

Horsepower calculations based on trim engine configuration. Please confirm the accuracy of the included equipment by calling us prior to purchase.
  • $4,548 TOTAL SAVINGS
    $49,347 MARKET BASED PRICE

  • MSRP $53,895
    • $500
    • $500
    • 1.90% for 36 mo.


VIN: 1FMSK8JHXRGA21122
Stock: 80070
Model: K8J
In-Service FCTP
Ext.
Int.

Features

  • Remote Start
  • 4WD/AWD
  • Keyless Ignition System
  • Power Tailgate/Liftgate
  • Navigation System
  • Tow Hitch/Tow Package

More Details

Dealer Comments
NAV, Sunroof, 3rd Row Seat, Heated Seats, Power Liftgate, 4x4, Quad Seats, Alloy Wheels, Tow Hitch, TIMBERLINE TECHNOLOGY PACKAGE, TRANSMISSION: 10-SPEED AUTOMATIC, TWIN PANEL MOONROOF. Stone Blue exterior and Deep Cypress interior.

KEY FEATURES INCLUDE
Third Row Seat, Navigation, 4x4, Quad Bucket Seats, Power Liftgate. Ford Timberline with Stone Blue exterior and Deep Cypress interior features a 4 Cylinder Engine with 300 HP at 5500 RPM*.

OPTION PACKAGES
TWIN PANEL MOONROOF remote control front windows (opens front windows from outside of the vehicle via the key fob), TIMBERLINE TECHNOLOGY PACKAGE Auto-Dimming Interior Rearview Mirror, Universal Garage Door Opener (UGDO), 3rd Row PowerFold Seat, Folds flat, Wireless Charging Pad, 110V/150W AC Power Outlet, Replaces the powerpoint port on the rear side of the center floor console, Radio: B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen, MP3 capability, 12 speakers and subwoofer, Sideview Mirrors w/Gloss Black Caps, power-folding w/Autofold, power and heated glass and security approach lamps, TRANSMISSION: 10-SPEED AUTOMATIC (STD).

Horsepower calculations based on trim engine configuration. Please confirm the accuracy of the included equipment by calling us prior to purchase.
  • $4,405 TOTAL SAVINGS
    $49,985 MARKET BASED PRICE

  • MSRP $54,390


VIN: 1FMSK8KH4RGA63381
Stock: 80155
Model: K8K
In Stock
Ext.
Int.

Features

  • Remote Start
  • 4WD/AWD
  • Heated Seats
  • Keyless Ignition System
  • Power Tailgate/Liftgate
  • Wireless Phone Charging

More Details

Dealer Comments
Heated Seats, Nav System, Moonroof, Third Row Seat, 4x4, Quad Bucket Seats, Hitch, WHEELS: 21 ALUMINUM, CLASS IV TRAILER TOW PACKAGE, TWIN PANEL MOONROOF. Star White Metallic Tri-Coat exterior and Ebony w/Red Stitching interior.

KEY FEATURES INCLUDE
Third Row Seat, Navigation, 4x4, Quad Bucket Seats, Power Liftgate. Ford ST-Line with Star White Metallic Tri-Coat exterior and Ebony w/Red Stitching interior features a 4 Cylinder Engine with 300 HP at 5500 RPM*.

OPTION PACKAGES
TWIN PANEL MOONROOF remote control front windows (opens front windows from outside of the vehicle via the key fob), WHEELS: 21 ALUMINUM Tires: 21 , CLASS IV TRAILER TOW PACKAGE, TRANSMISSION: 10-SPEED AUTOMATIC (STD).

Horsepower calculations based on trim engine configuration. Please confirm the accuracy of the included equipment by calling us prior to purchase.
  • $2,571 TOTAL SAVINGS
    $50,689 MARKET BASED PRICE

  • MSRP $53,260
    • $500
    • $500
    • 1.90% for 36 mo.


VIN: 1FMSK8DH7RGA55143
Stock: 80230
Model: K8D
In Stock
Ext.
Int.

Features

  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Remote Start
  • 4WD/AWD
  • Keyless Entry

More Details

Dealer Comments
Heated Seats, Nav System, Moonroof, Third Row Seat, 4x4, Turbo Charged Engine, Hitch, FORD CO-PILOT360 ASSIST+, WHEELS: 20 PREMIUM PAINTED ALUMINUM, TWIN PANEL MOONROOF. Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat exterior and Ebony interior.

KEY FEATURES INCLUDE
Third Row Seat, 4x4, Quad Bucket Seats, Power Liftgate, Rear Air. Ford XLT with Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat exterior and Ebony interior features a 4 Cylinder Engine with 300 HP at 5500 RPM*.

OPTION PACKAGES
EQUIPMENT GROUP 202A SecuriCode Keyless Entry Keypad, Acoustic-Laminated Front Side Windows, Remote Start System, Heated Steering Wheel, LED Fog Lamps, silver-painted front skid plate elements, TWIN PANEL MOONROOF, WHEELS: 20 PREMIUM PAINTED ALUMINUM Tires: P255/55R20 AS BSW, FORD CO-PILOT360 ASSIST+ Speed Sign Recognition, Voice-Activated Touchscreen Navigation System, pinch-to-zoom capability, SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link, Note: SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link includes a 5-year prepaid subscription, SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link service is not available in Alaska or Hawaii, After your trial period ends, Sirius XM audio and data services each require a subscription sold separately, or as a package, by SiriusXM Radio Inc, See SiriusXM customer agreement for complete terms at www.siriusxm.com, All fees and programming subject to change, Trial subscriptions not available in Alaska and Hawaii, Evasive Steering Assist, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, stop-and-go and lane centering, CLASS IV TRAILER TOW PACKAGE, TRANSMISSION: 10-SPEED AUTOMATIC (STD).

Horsepower calculations based on trim engine configuration. Please confirm the accuracy of the included equipment by calling us prior to purchase.
  • Call for Pricing & Availability MARKET BASED PRICE



VIN: 1FMSK8DH1RGA89286
Stock: 80210
Model: K8D
In-Service FCTP
Ext.
Int.

Features

  • 4WD/AWD
  • Keyless Ignition System
  • Power Tailgate/Liftgate
  • Rear View Camera

More Details

Dealer Comments
3rd Row Seat, Heated Seats, Rear Air, 4x4, Turbo Charged, Captains Chairs, Alloy Wheels, Power Liftgate. Warranty 5 yrs/60k Miles - Drivetrain Warranty;

KEY FEATURES INCLUDE
Third Row Seat, 4x4, Quad Bucket Seats, Power Liftgate, Rear Air.

Please confirm the accuracy of the included equipment by calling us prior to purchase.
  • $1,815 TOTAL SAVINGS
    $40,985 MARKET BASED PRICE

  • MSRP $42,800


VIN: 1FMSK8KH8RGA87571
Stock: 80197
Model: K8K
In Stock
Ext.
Int.

Features

  • Remote Start
  • 4WD/AWD
  • Heated Seats
  • Keyless Ignition System
  • Power Tailgate/Liftgate
  • Wireless Phone Charging

More Details

Dealer Comments
NAV, 3rd Row Seat, Heated Seats, Power Liftgate, Turbo, Quad Seats, Alloy Wheels, 4x4. Warranty 5 yrs/60k Miles - Drivetrain Warranty;

KEY FEATURES INCLUDE
Third Row Seat, Navigation, 4x4, Quad Bucket Seats, Power Liftgate

Please confirm the accuracy of the included equipment by calling us prior to purchase.
  • $2,664 TOTAL SAVINGS
    $50,496 MARKET BASED PRICE

  • MSRP $53,160
    • $500
    • $500
    • 1.90% for 36 mo.



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, license, and $379 service fee. ‡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.

*Any MPG listed is based on model year EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid only) and other factors.