For car buyers, the thrill of purchasing a new vehicle often comes bundled with a jumble of emotions—excitement to explore the features, confusion regarding a myriad of options, and the weight of a hefty investment. Not to mention, the inevitable question that arises: “Which should I choose?” Today, we unravel the intricacies of two popular choices head-to-head—the 2024 Ford Explorer and the 2024 Toyota Highlander.
In a segment brimming with options, knowing exactly what you’re in for is indispensable. Our comprehensive comparison dissects each vehicle into key categories—capability and performance, exterior and design, interior and comfort, technology and entertainment, safety and security, as well as price and warranty. By pitting these criteria against each other, we aim to lend clarity to your decision-making process, making your drive off the lot a confident and informed one.
Capability and Performance Comparison
Engine Options
The heart of any vehicle, the choice of engine type is pivotal. The 2024 Ford Explorer offers robust variety, starting with a turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost® I4, a 3.3L Hybrid, and the compelling 3.0L EcoBoost V6 for those craving power. On the Toyota side, the 2024 Highlander counters with a 3.5-liter V6 and a refined hybrid powertrain. Both options place a premium on balancing performance with fuel efficiency.
Towing Capability
Boasting versatility, the Ford Explorer’s top-tier 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is a beacon of strength, allowing for a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds. The Toyota Highlander’s towing capacity, although respectable, leans on the lower end, making it more suitable for lighter cargo.
Drivetrain Options
Ford provides a suite of choices with Intelligent 4WD and Selectable Drive Modes, while the Toyota Highlander banks on its Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, ensuring enhanced traction and cornering performance. The distinction may hinge on the weather conditions and terrain you anticipate driving in.
Exterior and Design Comparison
Aesthetic Appeal
The Explorer’s muscular, commanding presence lends an air of adventure, impeccable for those with a rugged aesthetic preference. Conversely, the Highlander, with its sleek silhouette and refined lines, caters more to a contemporary, upscale taste.
Lighting and Wheel Design
Detailed lighting and wheel design can elevate a vehicle’s look. The 2024 Explorer offers LED headlights and fog lamps as standard, with the option to upgrade to quad chrome exhaust tips or 21-inch premium aluminum wheels. Meanwhile, the Highlander counters with a stylish LED lighting system with features like auto on/off and LED-strip Daytime Running Lights. It also offers 18-inch machined-finish alloy wheels.
Interior and Comfort Comparison
Seating Arrangement
Both the Explorer and Highlander are available in 7-seater arrangements. However, build quality and comfort may sway your decision. While the Ford Explorer is known for its snug, supportive seats, the Toyota Highlander is celebrated for its spacious, family-friendly interior.
Cargo Space
For the organized packer, the Ford Explorer champions with ample cargo space, especially when the third row is folded down. Conversely, the Highlander, while not trailing far behind in this department, falls just shy of the Explorer’s robust offering.
Interior Materials
Soft-touch materials and premium finishes are where the 2024 Explorer stands out. Its cabin boasts a luxurious feel, often reminiscent of higher-priced luxury SUVs. Toyota, renowned for its attention to durability and quality, has furnished the Highlander with a practical and well-designed interior.
Technology and Entertainment Comparison
Infotainment System
Ford taps into the zeitgeist of digital interfaces with its SYNC® 4A system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen that is responsive and user-friendly. The Toyota Highlander counters with the standard 8-inch touchscreen display, although an upgrade to the 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation is the apple of many tech enthusiasts’ eyes.
Audio System
When the music is what moves you, the 2024 Explorer can be fitted with a premium Bang & Olufsen system with 14 speakers, delivering a concert-like audio experience. The 2024 Highlander offers JBL® Premium Audio with 11 speakers, including a subwoofer and amplifier, ensuring crystal clear sound for all passengers.
Other Entertainment and Technology Options
Expect smart device integration, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and more. The Highlander impresses with Amazon Alexa compatibility and a range of services provided through Toyota’s App Suite, while Ford’s suite delivers an array of convenient and entertainment-centric features.
Safety and Security Comparison
Standard Safety Features
In the realm of safety, both vehicles come well-equipped with features like lane-departure alert, pre-collision systems, and adaptive cruise control. However, varyings in sensor technology and reaction times can influence the overall protection offered.
Driver Assistance Systems
Ford’s Co-Pilot360 takes the lead by offering a variety of driver-assist technologies as standard. The Toyota Safety Sense suite in the Highlander comes close, delivering a comprehensive set of driver-assistance features to promote safer driving.
NHTSA and IIHS Ratings
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) ratings convey invaluable data on vehicle safety. In this aspect, a thorough comparison of the 2024 models’ ratings may tilt the scales in favor of one over the other.
Price and Warranty Comparison
Starting MSRP by Trim Level
Pricing is often the clincher. The 2024 Ford Explorer’s starting MSRP is competitive across its trim range, from the base model to the top-tier performance trims. The Toyota Highlander, while often portraying a higher initial cost, comes with a reputation for strong residual value and a robust feature set.
Warranty Offering
A strong warranty is the automaker’s vote of confidence in their product. The Ford Explorer offers a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The 2024 Toyota Highlander is close, matching the basic warranty but extending the powertrain coverage to 6 years/60,000 miles.
Conclusion
In the spirited duel between the 2024 Ford Explorer and the 2024 Toyota Highlander, both vehicles emerge as formidable contenders, championing unique strengths and garnering their own sets of loyal fans. The decision ultimately boils down to your individual preferences and needs. If towing capacity and a luxurious interior top your list, the Explorer might be your trusty steed. On the other hand, the Toyota Highlander, with its robust standard safety features and spacious interior, could be the perfect choice for family-focused drives. It’s a close race, and as your chariot awaits, the wheel is yours to turn.
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