2023 Ford Explorer vs 2023 Toyota Highlander
2023 Ford Explorer vs 2023 Toyota Highlander
View Inventory2023 Ford Explorer Overview
Brad Deery Motors now has the 2023 Ford Explorer available to test-drive, purchase and lease. The Explorer is among the most iconic SUVs ever made, and the current sixth Explorer generation has been helping to define the midsize segment since it was introduced for the 2020 model year. The new 2023 model brings with it more standard and optional trim levels, which include the base Explorer, XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, Limited, ST, King Ranch and Platinum. Another popular option in this segment is the 2023 Toyota Highlander, and it arrives with some notable updates as well, including a transition from a V6 to a turbo four. There are six trim levels—L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited and Platinum—and we’ll compare the 2023 Ford Explorer vs 2023 Toyota Highlander to see how these various packages measure up.
Exterior - Ford Dealer serving Maquoketa IA
The 2023 Ford Explorer is the larger vehicle. It has an 8.2-inch minimum ground clearance, a 119.1-inch wheelbase and a 198.8-inch overall length, which is about 16.6 feet. The 2023 Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, has a an 8.0-inch minimum ground clearance, a 112.2-inch wheelbase and a 194.9-inch overall length. LED headlamps and 18-inch alloy wheels are standard with both models. Options include 20-inch wheels, roof rails and a hands-free liftgate. The Highlander XSE has a sportier appearance package. With the Ford, all of the models with ST in the name have a sportier appearance package, and the King Ranch has a Western-themed appearance package that is exclusive to that trim level.
Interior - 2023 Ford Explorer in Maquoketa IA
A notable core design difference when comparing the 2023 Ford Explorer vs 2023 Toyota Highlander is that Toyota has emphasized seating capacity whereas Ford has focused on roominess. The Highlander can seat eight people in its default configuration. Captain’s chairs become standard starting with the XLE trim level and reduce that capacity to seven. Front, second-row and third-row legroom are 42.0, 38.7 and 28.0 inches, respectively, and the dedicated cargo space is 16.0 cubic feet. The Ford is available with either seven- or six-passenger seating. Captain’s chairs are standard beyond the base model, but a delete option is available in many cases. Front, second-row and third-row legroom are 43.0, 39.0 and 32.2 inches, respectively, and the dedicated cargo space is 18.2 cubic feet.
Ford Explorer Mechanical specs
There are more powertrain options available for the 2023 Ford Explorer at Brad Deery Motors, so we’re going to focus exclusively on the base equipment. That is what most customers will choose, and it provides a more straightforward comparison to the Toyota model. The base Explorer has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine—300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque—mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard. All-wheel drive is available and included with the Timberline. With the trailering upgrade, the Explorer can tow at least 5,000 pounds and as much as 5,600 pounds. Toyota has opted for an eight-speed automatic transmission mated to a 265-hp turbo four-cylinder. Highlander models can tow as much as 5,000 pounds. Fuel performance is comparable between the base models, and there are even more fuel economical options available with the Explorer.
Technology - 2023 Ford Explorer dealer
The base infotainment suite for the Explorer includes an 8-inch touch screen, a rearview camera, FordPass Connect with Wi-Fi hotspot and Apple and Android smartphone integration. Integrated navigation, a 10.1-inch touch screen and a wireless charging pad are optional. The 2023 Toyota Highlander is similarly equipped but the base touch screen 8 inches and the optional screen 12.3 inches. Advanced driver assists are comparable as well. The Highlander adaptive cruise control is more sophisticated, but Ford includes features you won’t find on the Toyota, such as rear automatic braking.
Request more 2023 Ford Explorer vs 2023 Toyota Highlander information
If you have any questions that we didn’t answer with our comparison of the 2023 Ford Explorer vs 2023 Toyota Highlander, we encourage you to call or email. Our team will be happy to answer them, discuss current specials, explore lease and finance options and provide custom quotes. If you prefer to shop Brad Deery Motors online, our team can assist you via live chat, and if you’d like to test-drive the Explorer, no appointment is needed. Just visit our location at your earliest convenience.
4 Results
Features
- Bluetooth®
- 3rd Rear Seat
- 4WD/AWD
- Android Auto
- Apple CarPlay
- Heated Seats
More Details
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$44,424 BRAD'S PRICE
- MSRP: $46,380
- Dealer Discount -$1,956
- Brad's Price: $44,424
- $2,000
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$44,424 BRAD'S PRICE
- MSRP: $46,380
- Dealer Discount -$1,956
- Brad's Price: $44,424
- $2,000
Features
- 360 Cameras
- Bluetooth®
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Remote Start
- 3rd Rear Seat
- 4WD/AWD
More Details
Dealer Comments
Iconic Silver Metallic 2024 Ford Explorer XLT 4WD 10-Speed Automatic 2.3L EcoBoost I-4
Come see what so many others have already experienced, the Deery Difference! Brad Deery Ford is a part of Iowa's largest group of dealerships where customer satisfaction is our #1 goal. Welcome to the Deery Family!
Dealer Disclosure: All price plus tax, title license, and $180 doc fee. Other restrictions may apply. Second key, floor mats, and owners manual may not be available on all pre-owned vehicles. The quoted price is subject to change to correct errors or omissions. Not responsible for typos, see dealer for details.
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$47,306 BRAD'S PRICE
- MSRP: $49,450
- Dealer Discount -$2,144
- Brad's Price: $47,306
- $2,000
-
$47,306 BRAD'S PRICE
- MSRP: $49,450
- Dealer Discount -$2,144
- Brad's Price: $47,306
- $2,000
Features
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Bluetooth®
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Remote Start
- 3rd Rear Seat
- 4WD/AWD
More Details
Dealer Comments
Agate Black Metallic 2024 Ford Explorer XLT 4WD 10-Speed Automatic 2.3L EcoBoost I-4
Come see what so many others have already experienced, the Deery Difference! Brad Deery Ford is a part of Iowa's largest group of dealerships where customer satisfaction is our #1 goal. Welcome to the Deery Family!
Dealer Disclosure: All price plus tax, title license, and $180 doc fee. Other restrictions may apply. Second key, floor mats, and owners manual may not be available on all pre-owned vehicles. The quoted price is subject to change to correct errors or omissions. Not responsible for typos, see dealer for details.
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$47,999 BRAD'S PRICE
- MSRP: $50,170
- Dealer Discount -$2,171
- Brad's Price: $47,999
- $2,000
-
$47,999 BRAD'S PRICE
- MSRP: $50,170
- Dealer Discount -$2,171
- Brad's Price: $47,999
- $2,000
Features
- 360 Cameras
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Bluetooth®
- Heated Steering Wheel
- 3rd Rear Seat
- 4WD/AWD
More Details
Dealer Comments
Come see what so many others have already experienced, the Deery Difference! Brad Deery Ford is a part of Iowa's largest group of dealerships where customer satisfaction is our #1 goal. Welcome to the Deery Family!
Dealer Disclosure: All price plus tax, title license, and $180 doc fee. Other restrictions may apply. Second key, floor mats, and owners manual may not be available on all pre-owned vehicles. The quoted price is subject to change to correct errors or omissions. Not responsible for typos, see dealer for details.
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$59,937 BRAD'S PRICE
- MSRP: $62,410
- Dealer Discount -$2,473
- Brad's Price: $59,937
- $2,000
-
$59,937 BRAD'S PRICE
- MSRP: $62,410
- Dealer Discount -$2,473
- Brad's Price: $59,937
- $2,000
May not represent actual vehicle. (Options, colors, trim and body style may vary)
Dealer Comments
Star White Metallic Tri-Coat 2024 Ford Explorer XLT 4WD 10-Speed Automatic 2.3L EcoBoost I-4
Come see what so many others have already experienced, the Deery Difference! Brad Deery Ford is a part of Iowa's largest group of dealerships where customer satisfaction is our #1 goal. Welcome to the Deery Family!
Dealer Disclosure: All price plus tax, title license, and $180 doc fee. Other restrictions may apply. Second key, floor mats, and owners manual may not be available on all pre-owned vehicles. The quoted price is subject to change to correct errors or omissions. Not responsible for typos, see dealer for details.