2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, characterized by its blunt and bulbous nose, which gave it an aggressive appearance. Over time, however, this design became more familiar and less striking. The SUV's styling was further accentuated by black windshield pillars that created a floating roof effect and swollen haunches that attempted to balance the overall look. Despite the presence of 20-inch alloy wheels, the exaggerated quarter panels seemed to overwhelm the design. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered a two-tone interior with soft leather, but the instrument-panel shroud felt cheap and hollow. The asymmetrical dashboard housed a 12.3-inch touchscreen, which suffered from reflections on sunny days, and the mix of illumination colours made the gauges appear busy at night.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer boasted a more athletic and taut appearance, thanks to its rear-drive platform, long hood, and rakish roofline. The blacked-out roof pillars contributed to a floating roof effect, reminiscent of its predecessor. The Explorer's interior, especially in higher trims, displayed a mix of quality materials, though some elements hinted at its base trim origins. The cabin was generally comfortable, with higher trims offering features like triple-zone climate control and massaging front seats. However, the third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. Practical storage was somewhat lacking, but the Explorer's hands-free power liftgate revealed a generous cargo area, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, resulting in improved fuel efficiency, rated at 6.7 L/100 km in combined driving. However, this came at the cost of reduced power, with total output dropping to 243 horsepower. The hybrid system used an "E-CVT" to mimic an automatic transmission, but the driving experience was less than thrilling. The Highlander Hybrid struggled with hills and freeway acceleration, and the engine sounded strained under load. The steering was lifeless, and the ride was marred by unwanted body movement, though regenerative brakes performed well. On smooth roads, the SUV handled capably, but rough terrain quickly revealed its shortcomings. Around town, the electric motor torque and EV Mode were highlights, but overall, the driving experience was uninspiring.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided a towing capacity of up to 2,400 kg and consumed between 10.3 and 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer Limited offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6 engine, delivering 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kg and fuel consumption as low as 9.6 L/100 km. For those seeking more power, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine was available, generating 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,540 kg. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and it felt more engaging to drive than typical midsize SUVs.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum provided comfortable accommodations for the driver and front passenger, with features like a heated steering wheel and leather upholstery. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight, but the narrow cabin made it uncomfortable for three adults. The third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access, making it unsuitable for adults. Storage was adequate but not as generous as the previous generation, and the cargo space measured 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,387 litres with all seats folded. However, the lack of storage wells for securing items was a drawback.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered ample comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. The third-row seat was best for children due to limited space. Higher trims featured amenities like triple-zone climate control and massaging front seats. Practical storage was lacking, but the Explorer's cargo area offered 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,132 litres with all seats folded. The hands-free power liftgate added convenience, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and a navigation system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons for easy access. However, the JBL sound system's performance varied, and the voice recognition system did not control climate settings. Additional features included Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror for improved visibility.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered two versions of its Sync 3 infotainment system, with either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The larger screen appeared as an afterthought, but the system included FordPass Connect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. Higher trims featured wireless charging, a surround-view camera, and a Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the voice recognition system struggled with certain commands, highlighting the need for an upgrade to Sync 4. The Platinum trim included a digital instrumentation display and Active Park Assist 2.0 for autonomous parking.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. The system added intersection support and emergency steering assistance for 2021. A blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, and the Platinum trim included a surround-view camera. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though frontal-impact ratings were four stars.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, but NHTSA ratings for 2022 were incomplete. The Explorer featured Ford Co-Pilot360, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer also had post-collision braking and MyKey programmable functions. The system operated smoothly, though steering wheel sensitivity was a minor issue.