In the competitive midsize SUV market, the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander consistently lead discussions, each evolving to meet modern drivers’ demands. The 2025 Ford Explorer offers a robust engine lineup, including a standard 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder and an optional 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6, delivering impressive performance and a towing capacity of up to 5,600 pounds.
Its interior features a 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen and enhanced safety technologies like Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+. Conversely, the 2025 Toyota Highlander emphasizes efficiency and comfort, equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 265 horsepower, and an available hybrid system achieving up to 36 MPG combined.
Its interior boasts high-quality materials and an available 12.3-inch touchscreen. Both SUVs offer advanced safety suites and spacious cabins, catering to diverse preferences in performance, fuel economy, and technology.
Overview: What’s New In 2025?
The 2025 model year brings exciting upgrades for both the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander, showcasing refreshed designs, smarter technology, and improved powertrains. With a focus on performance, efficiency, and in-cabin experience, both SUVs aim to raise the bar in the midsize segment.
Ford Explorer 2025 Highlights
- New front fascia and redesigned LED headlights
- Enhanced infotainment with SYNC 5 interface
- Standardized safety suite across all trims
- New Timberline off-road-focused edition
Toyota Highlander 2025 Highlights
- Updated hybrid system with better fuel efficiency
- Sleeker exterior design and revamped grille
- Larger 12.3-inch touchscreen standard on more trims
- New Platinum Tech Package for advanced driver assistance
Performance And Powertrain Options
When it comes to performance and powertrain options, both the 2025 Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander bring distinct strengths to the table. While the Explorer emphasizes power and driving dynamics, the Highlander leans into efficiency and smooth ride quality—especially with its refined hybrid setup.
Engine Lineup and Horsepower
| Model | Standard Engine | Available Engine Options |
| Ford Explorer | 2.3L Turbocharged I4 (300 hp) | 3.0L V6 EcoBoost (400 hp – ST trim) |
| Toyota Highlander | 2.4L Turbo I4 (265 hp) | 2.5L Hybrid (243 hp combined) |
- Ford Explorer delivers a more powerful drive with its base and ST trims, especially appealing to performance enthusiasts.
- Toyota Highlander leans more towards efficiency and smooth driving, especially with its hybrid variant.
Driving Experience and Ride Quality
- Explorer offers a sportier driving experience with a stiffer suspension and rear-wheel-drive platform.
- Highlander provides a more relaxed and comfortable ride—ideal for families and urban commutes.
Verdict: If you crave power and responsiveness, Explorer wins. For everyday comfort, Highlander takes the lead.
Fuel Economy: Efficiency Showdown
| Model | City (MPG) | Highway (MPG) | Combined (MPG) |
| Ford Explorer (I4) | 21 | 28 | 24 |
| Ford Explorer Hybrid | 27 | 29 | 28 |
| Toyota Highlander I4 | 22 | 29 | 25 |
| Toyota Highlander Hybrid | 36 | 35 | 36 |
- The Toyota Highlander Hybrid sets a new bar for fuel efficiency in 2025.
- Ford’s hybrid Explorer offers better-than-average numbers but trails the Highlander.
Verdict: Toyota wins this round by a wide margin, especially for fuel-conscious buyers.
Interior Features and Comfort
Design and Layout
- Explorer boasts a modern interior with a 13.2-inch center touchscreen and SYNC 5, but its cabin materials vary by trim.
- Highlander offers a more upscale feel, with higher-quality materials and excellent insulation.
Passenger Space
| Model | Seating Capacity | 2nd-Row Legroom | 3rd-Row Legroom |
| Ford Explorer | 6-7 | 39 inches | 32.2 inches |
| Toyota Highlander | 7-8 | 38.4 inches | 28 inches |
- The Explorer’s rear-wheel-drive layout offers better 3rd-row space.
- Highlander’s third row is best for kids or short trips.
Cargo Space
| Model | Behind 3rd Row | Max Capacity (Seats Folded) |
| Ford Explorer | 18.2 cu. ft. | 87.8 cu. ft. |
| Toyota Highlander | 16.0 cu. ft. | 84.3 cu. ft. |
Verdict: Explorer provides more usable space for larger families or road trips, while Highlander has a more refined interior design.
Technology And Infotainment
In 2025, both the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander raise the bar with cutting-edge technology and infotainment systems that cater to modern connectivity needs. From large, intuitive touchscreens to premium audio options and wireless integration, each SUV delivers a high-tech experience that enhances every drive.
Infotainment Systems
- Ford Explorer: SYNC 5, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, available 14-speaker B&O sound system.
- Toyota Highlander: Toyota Audio Multimedia system, also with wireless smartphone integration, and JBL Premium Audio (Platinum trim).
Digital Features
- Both vehicles offer digital driver displays (12.3-inch optional in Explorer, standard in higher Highlander trims).
- Multiple USB ports, wireless charging, and over-the-air updates are available in both.
Verdict: It’s a tie—both offer top-tier infotainment with slight advantages depending on trim level.
Safety And Driver Assistance
When it comes to protecting your family on the road, both the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander shine with an impressive range of safety and driver assistance features. Each SUV comes equipped with comprehensive standard packages, while higher trims unlock even more advanced technologies.
Standard Safety Features
| Feature | Ford Explorer | Toyota Highlander |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ✅ | ✅ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ✅ | ✅ |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | ✅ | ✅ |
| Lane Keep Assist | ✅ | ✅ |
Advanced Safety Tech
- Explorer’s Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ offers intersection assist and evasive steering.
- Highlander’s Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 includes enhanced pedestrian detection and lane tracing assist.
Verdict: Both are exceptionally safe, but Highlander edges out with newer software updates and a more consistent standard suite across trims.
Trim Levels And Pricing
When choosing between the 2025 Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander, understanding the available trim levels and pricing is key to finding the right fit for your needs and budget. Both models offer a range of configurations—from practical base trims to feature-packed premium editions—ensuring there’s an option for every type of SUV buyer.
2025 Ford Explorer Trims & Pricing
- Base – Starting at $39,000
- XLT – From $41,500
- ST-Line – From $45,000
- Limited – From $48,000
- ST – From $55,000
- Platinum – From $57,500
2025 Toyota Highlander Trims & Pricing
- L – Starting at $38,000
- LE – From $40,000
- XLE – From $43,500
- Limited – From $47,000
- Platinum – From $51,000
- Hybrid trims – Add approx. $2,000 extra
- Highlander’s trims are generally more affordable, especially for hybrid models.
- Explorer offers more performance-focused options (ST and Timberline).
Verdict: Toyota wins on value and fuel economy. Explorer shines for power and variety.
Off-Road Capability
- Ford Explorer Timberline: Higher ground clearance, AWD standard, terrain management system.
- Toyota Highlander: Limited off-road functionality, focused more on paved-road comfort.
Verdict: Explorer takes the win for weekend adventurers and off-road use.
Resale Value And Reliability
- Toyota Highlander continues to lead in long-term reliability and holds stronger resale value.
- Ford Explorer has improved in reliability, but Toyota still sets the benchmark.
✅ Verdict: Toyota remains the go-to for resale and peace of mind ownership.
Which One Should You Buy in 2025?
| Category | Winner |
| Performance | Ford Explorer |
| Fuel Economy | Toyota Highlander |
| Interior Comfort | Toyota Highlander |
| Tech & Infotainment | Tie |
| Safety | Toyota Highlander |
| Cargo & Space | Ford Explorer |
| Off-Road Ability | Ford Explorer |
| Resale & Reliability | Toyota Highlander |
| Value | Toyota Highlander |
Final Thoughts
If power, performance, and versatility are high on your priority list, the 2025 Ford Explorer stands out with its athletic ST trim and off-road-ready Timberline edition. It’s designed for drivers who crave a more dynamic and adventurous experience.
On the other hand, the Toyota Highlander shines with its refined ride, excellent fuel efficiency—especially in the hybrid model—and proven long-term reliability, making it ideal for families and daily commuters. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your lifestyle. Whether you need a capable weekend explorer or a dependable city hauler, both SUVs offer compelling strengths in their way.
