Choosing a family vehicle can be a daunting task, with the market flooded with options ranging from SUVs to minivans, each boasting unique features. Amidst the noise, the 2022 Toyota Highlander and the 2022 Ford Explorer stand out as solid contenders in the family-hauling segment. While the Highlander focuses on delivering versatility and safety, the Explorer offers a variety of trims to cater to different preferences. In this comprehensive comparison, we'll delve into the look and feel, performance, and form and function of these two popular models to help you make an informed decision.
2022 Toyota Highlander vs. 2022 Ford Explorer: Three-Row Crossovers Compared
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Highlander an impressive 8 out of 10 for its look and feel. The Highlander sports a modern, somewhat aggressive front-end design, complemented by flared fender arches that create a visually appealing profile. The third-row window design cleverly disguises the Highlander's spacious interior. The XSE trim level, in particular, adds a touch of flair with its optional bold red leather package, unique exterior styling, ambient interior lighting, and a sport-tuned suspension.
The Highlander lineup offers various trims, from the base L to the range-topping Platinum. Even the base L trim comes generously equipped with features like 18-inch alloy wheels, pushbutton start, proximity keyless entry, three-zone climate control, and a user-friendly 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration.
Similarly, the 2022 Ford Explorer also earns a commendable 8 out of 10 from CarGurus experts. The Explorer boasts a sleek and athletic appearance, thanks to its rear-drive platform. Notable design elements include shiny 20-inch wheels and quad exhaust outlets on higher trims, giving it an appealing look. The Explorer's blacked-out roof pillars contribute to the "floating roof" effect, enhancing its visual appeal.
Inside, the King Ranch trim level stands out with exclusive Del Rio leather seating and distinctive branding. However, it's important to note that while the Explorer feels worthy of its price point, some materials may not match the expectations of discerning buyers.
Performance
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Highlander at 7 out of 10 for performance. Under the hood, you'll find a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. This power is managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission, with available all-wheel drive (AWD) on certain trims. The Highlander offers multiple driving modes, including Sport, Normal, and Eco, along with various terrain settings for its AWD system.
While the V6 engine provides ample power for highway cruising and passing, it may not feel as lively from a standstill compared to some rivals. However, its handling shines with minimal body roll and composed steering, making it an excellent choice for both city driving and highway journeys.
CarGurus experts give the 2022 Ford Explorer an impressive 9 out of 10 for performance. The Explorer offers three powertrains to cater to different needs. The base engine is a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder, generating 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This engine pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission and can tow up to 5,300 pounds.
For those seeking efficiency, the Explorer Limited offers an efficient hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.3-liter V6, producing a combined 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. It offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and impressive fuel economy of up to 27 mpg in combined driving.
For those prioritizing power, the Explorer offers a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission and can tow up to 5,600 pounds, making it an excellent choice for those who need to haul heavier loads.
Form and Function
The 2022 Toyota Highlander scores an outstanding 9 out of 10 for form and function, according to CarGurus experts. With the second- and third-row seats folded, the Highlander provides an impressive 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space, making it highly versatile for carrying various loads. Even with the second-row seats in use, you'll still have access to 48.4 cubic feet of cargo space. When all seats are upright, there's still a respectable 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. The Highlander offers convenient features like a power liftgate, with higher trims even including a hands-free power liftgate for added convenience.
Interior storage is well thought out, with ample pockets, ledges, and cupholders, ensuring a clutter-free cabin. Second-row captain's chairs add to the comfort, creating space between passengers on long trips.
The 2022 Ford Explorer scores 7 out of 10 for form and function from CarGurus. While the Explorer provides ample comfort for families of four, its third-row seat is best suited for children due to its low cushion and limited legroom.
Inside, the Explorer King Ranch impresses with features like triple-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable heated steering wheel. Massaging front seats add an extra touch of luxury, offering 14-way power adjustment for the driver and eight-way for the front passenger.
Cargo space behind the third-row seat measures 18.2 cubic feet, expanding to 47.9 cubic feet when you fold down the third-row seats. With both rear rows folded, it offers a maximum of 87.8 cubic feet of cargo volume.
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Highlander at an impressive 8 out of 10 for technology. The Highlander comes equipped with a user-friendly infotainment system that includes an 8-inch touchscreen. It supports essential features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, providing seamless smartphone integration. While it lacks wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it compensates with a straightforward layout and physical buttons flanking the screen. This blend of screens and hard controls offers a familiar and functional interface.
In the center tray below the climate controls, you'll find a wireless charging pad along with a combination of USB and USB-C ports. For those who crave a larger display, there's an available 12.3-inch touchscreen. Additional tech highlights include a digital instrument panel and an impressive 11-speaker JBL premium stereo system.
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Ford Explorer slightly lower, at 6 out of 10, for its technology offerings. Ford offers two versions of its Sync 3 infotainment system. The base version features an 8-inch touchscreen, while the higher trims boast a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen. The smaller screen blends seamlessly into the Explorer's interior design, while the larger one appears less integrated, somewhat like an afterthought.
Standard tech features in the Explorer include FordPass Connect services, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and navigation. The King Ranch trim also adds wireless smartphone charging and a remarkable 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen premium sound system.
It's important to note that Ford offers the next-generation Sync 4 technology in many of its models, which provides significant improvements in voice recognition and overall user experience. However, the 2022 Explorer still relies on Sync 3, which may not be as intuitive or responsive.
Safety
In terms of safety, CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Highlander at a solid 8 out of 10. The Highlander comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, which includes a comprehensive set of driver-assistance features. These include forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, and automatic high beams.
Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert come standard on all but the base L trim. Optional safety features include front and rear parking sensors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a surround-view parking monitor, a head-up display, and adaptive headlights. However, some drivers find the lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist systems to be overly active in certain situations.
The 2022 Ford Explorer earns a remarkable 10 out of 10 safety rating from CarGurus experts. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), every version of the 2022 Explorer receives a Top Safety Pick+ safety rating, showcasing its strong commitment to safety.
Ford equips every Explorer with Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of driver-assist and collision-avoidance features. Standard offerings include forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beam headlights. Opting for Co-Pilot360 Assist+ adds adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, lane-centering assist, and evasive steering assist.
Beyond Co-Pilot360, the Explorer also features a post-collision braking system and MyKey programmable vehicle functions. This combination of safety features works smoothly, although it may occasionally misinterpret the driver's hand presence on the steering wheel.
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Highlander at an impressive 9 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The Highlander offers efficient configurations with the FWD L and FWD XLE trims, returning a fuel economy of 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The AWD models are slightly less efficient, with ratings of 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined.
Base pricing for the 2022 Highlander starts at $35,855 for the L trim, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The warranty coverage includes a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, adding peace of mind to your investment.
In contrast, CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Ford Explorer at 5 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. While lower trims offer desirable options, the Explorer's price tends to hover between $45,000 and $55,000 when equipped with desired features. This positions it as a premium choice compared to some rivals.
Additionally, some competitors, such as the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride, offer attractive ownership perks like long warranty coverage and complimentary scheduled maintenance, which the Explorer doesn't provide.
Verdict
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 Toyota Highlander is 8.17 out of 10, while the 2022 Ford Explorer scores 7.5 out of 10.
Choose a 2022 Toyota Highlander if:
You value cost-effectiveness and want a fuel-efficient SUV with a range of trim options to suit your budget.
A versatile interior, high-tech safety features, and a proven V6 engine are priorities for you.
You appreciate a straightforward and user-friendly infotainment system with a standard touchscreen.
In conclusion, both the 2022 Toyota Highlander and the 2022 Ford Explorer have their strengths, and your choice should depend on your specific priorities and preferences.
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