You're looking for an SUV, and you're not content to settle for any old model. You want something bigger, with great features, top-notch performance options, and seating for a whole crowd. It's no surprise to the team at Fort's Toyota of Pekin that you're thinking about the Toyota Highlander.
The Toyota Highlander isn't the only SUV option available for East Peoria and Bloomington drivers, though. When you're shopping for a new SUV, you'll find other options, like the Ford Explorer, also available for sale. Let's take a look at both new models and talk about everything they have to offer.
Space & Seating
The Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer are both mainstay SUVs for family drivers, carpool champions, and more. With the Toyota Highlander, you'll enjoy seating for up to seven, including the driver. The Ford Explorer caps out at six seats.
In terms of actual space, the Toyota Highlander wins there, too. New models offer up to 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space, with the seats folded down. With the Ford Explorer, you'll only enjoy up to 84.1 cubic feet. Considering the extra seating you'll enjoy in the Toyota Highlander, every little bit counts.
Performance
The newest Toyota Highlander comes powered by a dynamic and efficient standard all-electric powertrain. With the base model single-motor Toyota Highlander, you'll enjoy up to 221 horsepower. Bloomington and Bartonville drivers looking for up a bit more, meanwhile, will find an optional 338 horsepower dual-motor option available, as well.
The Ford Explorer, to its credit, offers a base output of 300 horsepower, thanks to its standard 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder powertrain. It can also come equipped with a 400 horsepower turbocharged V6.
The obvious caveat on top of that, however, is that the Toyota Highlander offers EV savings while the Ford Explorer relies on traditional gasoline. You'll get up to 320 miles of range with a fully charged battery in the Toyota Highlander. With the Ford Explorer, you'll get a fuel economy ranging between 17-20 miles per gallon on city streets and 22-29 miles per gallon on the highway.
Features & Technology
Both the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer come equipped with robust media and technology suites. With the Highlander, you'll enjoy a standard 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. New models can also come with an 11-speaker JBL sound system, optional 5G Wi-Fi connectivity, and built-in navigation.
The Ford Explorer comes with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and also offers wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. A 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system can also be purchased as an upgrade for those who prefer a better sound experience.
Safety
It doesn't matter if you're looking at the Toyota Highlander or Ford Explorer. Both SUVs are safe and thoroughly equipped to help you avoid accidents. The new Toyota Highlander comes with a standard safety suite that includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and more. The Ford Explorer is equally well-equipped when it comes to safety. You'll be able to drive with peace of mind, regardless of which model you choose.
Why is the Toyota Highlander the Right New SUV for Me?
If you're a Peoria driver deciding between the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer, you'll enjoy a great experience no matter which way you opt to go. That said, with its extra seating, interior space, and impressive all-electric performance, the Toyota Highlander stands out as the superior model overall.
If you'd like to learn more, drop us a call or shoot us a message at Fort's Toyota of Pekin. Our sales team can answer your questions, fill you in on our current lineup, and help you find a new Toyota Highlander that you love.
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