2026 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Toyota Highlander
Shopping for your next three-row SUV can feel overwhelming, especially when two of the segment's most popular models—the 2026 Ford Explorer and the 2026 Toyota Highlander—are on your shortlist. Although both the Explorer and Highlander deliver family-friendly versatility, a closer look at the numbers reveals key differences that could steer your decision. Read on for a head-to-head breakdown of performance, interior space, and technology to see which SUV belongs in your Pottstown driveway.
2026 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander: Performance
Under the hood, the Explorer offers two turbocharged EcoBoost® powertrains, each of which outmuscles its Toyota competitor. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost® engine produces 35 hp more than the standard engine on the Highlander, and Ephrata drivers who want even more capability can step up to the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 for a commanding 385 hp. See how the two lineups stack up below:
2026 Ford Explorer Powertrain Options
- 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 Engine: 300 hp / 310 lb-ft of torque
- 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 Engine: 385 hp / 415 lb-ft of torque
2026 Toyota Highlander Powertrain Options
- 2.4L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Engine: 265 hp / 310 lb-ft of torque
- 2.5L Hybrid Powertrain: 243 combined hp
2026 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander: Seating & Cargo Capacity
Both SUVs seat up to seven passengers across three rows, but the Explorer has the advantage in overall roominess. Thanks to its longer wheelbase, the Ford Explorer delivers more passenger and cargo volume throughout the cabin, ensuring everyone has room to stretch on your travels through Lebanon. Discover how much extra space the 2026 Explorer offers in the interior dimension breakdown below:
2026 Ford Explorer Interior Dimensions
- Maximum Seating Capacity: 7
- Maximum Passenger Volume: 150.3 cubic feet
- Maximum Cargo Volume: 85.8 cubic feet
2026 Toyota Highlander Interior Dimensions
- Maximum Seating Capacity: 7
- Maximum Passenger Volume: 139.5 cubic feet
- Maximum Cargo Volume: 84.3 cubic feet
2026 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander: Infotainment
A modern SUV should keep every passenger connected, and the Explorer makes that easy with a larger standard touchscreen and wireless smartphone connectivity on its base trim. The Highlander counters with a smaller eight-inch display on its entry-level configuration, reserving its larger touchscreen for its upper trims. Compare each model's standard infotainment suites below to discover how the Ford Explorer stands out:
2026 Ford Explorer Active: Standard Tech
- Instrument panel with 12.3-inch cluster display
- Ford Digital Experience with 13.2-inch center display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- 4G/5G modem
- SiriusXM® with 360L (3-month prepaid subscription)
- 6-speaker audio system
2026 Toyota Highlander XLE: Standard Tech
- 7-inch color LCD Multi-Information Display
- 8-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- 4G Wi-Fi Connect (Up to 30-day trial subscription)
- SiriusXM® 3-month trial subscription
- 6-speaker audio system
Test-Drive The Latest Ford Explorer At Tom Masano Ford
The 2026 Ford Explorer brings more power, more passenger room, and a bigger standard touchscreen to the table, giving it a clear edge over the Toyota Highlander. When you're ready to experience the Ford difference firsthand, reach out to Tom Masano Ford to schedule a test drive. Our Shillington team will walk you through all the specifications, features, and accessories available for the latest Explorer so that you can find the right configuration for your family. In the meantime, browse our latest offers to see how you can bring home your next Ford at a competitive price.