2021 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Toyota Highlander
2021 Ford Explorer Overview
Designed for a family of seven, the 2021 Ford Explorer is more powerful, versatile and reliable than ever before. Serving Mount Dora Orlando Sanford Eustis, Florida, we have this midsize SUV in seven trims. Offering up to eight seats, the 2021 Toyota Highlander also satisfies families seeking reliability, efficiency and utility.
Powertrain - Ford Dealer serving Mount Dora FL
Adopting the highly awarded EcoBoost design, a 2.3-liter engine block powers the 2021 Ford Explorer. Configured into an I-4 formation, this turbocharged powerplant twists out 310 pound-feet of torque. Direct injection and the Ti-VCT functions regulate combustion in this four-cylinder powerplant that's made of cast aluminum. Compressing unleaded gasoline at a 10.0:1 ratio, the standard turbo engine supports a maximum towing load of 5,300 pounds. In dramatic contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander can't get more than 295 hp from a 3.5-L V-6 engine. Running on normal aspiration and the Atkinson cycle, this six-cylinder powertrain peaks at only 263 lb-ft. Employing the VVT-i design, the V-6 engine can't tow more than 5,000 pounds. Consumers comparing the 2021 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Toyota Highlander should investigate other options under the hood of each vehicle. Displacing 3.0 L, the Explorer's V-6 engine kicks out 400 net hp. Supplemented by twin turbochargers, this EcoBoost powerplant churns out 415 lb-ft. This direct-injected propulsion system can tow up to 5,600 pounds. Compressing gasoline at a 9.5:1 quotient, the twin-turbo engine releases exhaust gases through quad tips with a chrome finish.
2021 Ford Explorer in Mount Dora FL
The versatile Ford Explorer also offers a 3.3-L hybrid engine for families seeking enhanced efficiency. Having a horsepower output in the upper 310s, the naturally aspirated V-6 engine achieves a 12:1 compression ratio. Connected to dual exhaust tips, the hybrid system has a peak torque rating in the low 320s as specified in lb-ft. Featuring a 2.5-L gas engine and an electric motor, the hybrid system on the 2021 Toyota Highlander has a net output of only 243 hp. When powered by the hybrid powerplant, this Toyota SUV has a towing rating of only 3,500 pounds. The Explorer's powerful hybrid system beats such a trailering capacity by 1,500 pounds.
Capabilities - Ford Explorer
When equipped with a rear-wheel drive, the 2021 Explorer gets an axle ratio of 3.36. The Intelligent 4WD system increases the axle ratio to 3.51, 3.58 or 3.73. However, this advanced drivetrain is also available with a 3.16 axle ratio. You won't get as many options for the axle ratio on the 2021 Highlander, which runs on a standard front-wheel drive. You could upgrade this Toyota SUV with the Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD. Additionally, the hybrid trims run on the Electronic On-Demand AWD.
As a trusted Ford car dealer serving Mount Dora Orlando Sanford Eustis, we emphasize the advantages of the Terrain Management System on the 2021 Explorer. Delivering a total of seven settings, the TMS gives you plenty of options for exploring rough trails or navigating inclement weather. The Trail Mode and Deep Snow/Sand Mode provide superb off-road traction. Likewise, the 2021 Highlander can run on the Rock & Dirt and Mud & Sand modes. However, the Multi-Terrain Select on this Toyota model only has two additional driving modes. Creating up to 10 unique shifting points, an automatic transmission system propels the 2021 Explorer. Using a rotary-style dial, you will smoothly change speeds in the dynamic gearbox that comes with the SelectShift capabilities. Built on the Direct-Shift platform, the Highlander's automatic transmission can't produce more than eight gear ratios.
Technologies - 2021 Ford Explorer dealer
Digital technology should be an important topic when comparing the 2021 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Toyota Highlander. Measuring slightly larger than 10 inches diagonally, the LCD Capacitive Portrait Touch Screen is available for the Ford model. The FordPass Connect, Ford+Alexa, Waze, Android Auto and other applications are at your fingertips on the SYNC 3 multimedia suite. Most of the 2021 Highlander trims offer an 8.0-inch display with the Connected Services. You could also get a 12.3-inch touch screen for the Dynamic Navigation System on this Toyota SUV. Carrying the acclaimed Bang & Olufsen logo, the 2021 Explorer's sound system includes a dozen speakers. Blasting nearly 1,000 acoustic watts, this premium audio system is connected to SiriusXM All Access. You could listen to such great music on the Highlander's 11 JBL speakers. Both SUVs offer other entertainment options through Bluetooth audio streaming or Apple CarPlay.
Amenities
Serving Mount Dora Orlando Sanford Eustis, our Ford auto dealership invites families to check out the convenient amenities inside the 2021 Explorer. Featuring five distinct massaging functions, the proprietary Active Motion front seats reduce fatigue and stress. This large Ford SUV also offers second-row captain's chairs that include the E-Z Entry and Power-Assist Fold functions. Heated seats with leather upholstery improve the comfort level for occupants in the first and second rows. A large center console also separates the spacious captain's chairs inside this premium Ford model. Circulating air in three different zones, the Electronic Automatic Temperature Control ensures all-season comfort inside the three-row Ford SUV. Passengers in the middle row have direct access to a multimedia hub with HVAC control panels, a 110-volt outlet and multiple USB charging ports. You just won't get as many electronic utilities and other conveniences inside the 2021 Highlander. However, both SUVs offer a wireless charging pad for smartphones.
Request more 2021 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Toyota Highlander information
New, Pre-owned, and Certified vehicle pricing excludes $2995 Prestige Rewards. Prices do not include applicable tax, title, license, processing, as well as $799.95 Dealer Fee, and 199.95 electronic registration filing fee. While we strive for accuracy in the information on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. All prices assume dealer financing. Must take same day delivery. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not exceeding one week. In addition, you may be eligible for other rebates (College, Military, 1st Responders, or Private offers) not included in price. Ask your salesperson for more details.