2022 Ford Explorer vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered Canadians a range of six models, with prices starting from $47,799 to $66,759, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline trim, and the new ST-Line added a sporty flair to the XLT version. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a rakish roofline, giving it a taut, athletic appearance. Blacked-out roof pillars created a "floating roof" effect, popular from previous generations. Inside, higher-trim Explorers mixed quality with some questionable materials, but mostly felt worthy of their price. However, hints of the base trim occasionally surfaced.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner maintained its rugged roots, tracing back to the 1980s SUV craze. Unlike many modern SUVs that evolved to car-based platforms, the 4Runner stayed true to its pickup truck lineage, sharing underpinnings with the Toyota Tacoma. This approach allowed the 4Runner to cater to off-road enthusiasts, with its high ride height, boxy proportions, and sharply angled front bumper designed for obstacle navigation. Inside, the 4Runner's function-first design was evident, though it showed its age with a dash layout reminiscent of the late 2000s. Canadian models included Trail and SR5, with various TRD and Limited packages, offering features like push-button start, a power-sliding rear window, and an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims featured a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. It had a towing capacity of 2,400 kg and consumed between 10.3 and 11.8 L/100 km. The Limited trim offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6, producing 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,268 kg, and achieving 9.6 L/100 km. The ST and Platinum trims boasted a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 with 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,540 kg and consuming 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and felt athletic in daily driving.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with a single 4.0-litre V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD. While reliable, the engine felt underwhelming in most driving situations. The 4Runner's ride was harsh and cumbersome, with noticeable body roll, but it excelled off-road, where its suspension absorbed rough terrain effortlessly. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models included features like Crawl Control and a locking differential, enhancing off-road capability. The 4Runner's towing capacity was 2,268 kg, comparable to most car-based crossovers.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided ample comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. However, the third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. Fully equipped models offered features like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain’s chairs. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with available massaging, while the second-row seats were nearly as accommodating. Cargo space was 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,264 litres with the third row folded, and 2,132 litres with both rear rows down. Practical storage within the cabin was limited, with missed opportunities for additional storage solutions.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum of 2,540 litres of cargo capacity in the two-row version, with 1,337 litres behind the second row. The three-row model reduced maximum cargo space to 2,514 litres, with 1,311 litres behind the second row and 254 litres behind the rear seats. The third-row seat, available only on the Limited package, increased seating capacity to seven. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-open/close rear window for easy access. While not the most efficient in cabin packaging, the 4Runner provided adequate space for gear.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The smaller screen was well integrated, while the larger screen appeared as an afterthought. The system included FordPass Connect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and navigation. Higher trims offered wireless charging, a surround-view camera, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. The outdated Sync 3 system struggled with voice recognition, highlighting the need for an upgrade to Sync 4. Additional tech included a 12.3-inch digital display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and multiple USB ports. While not the most advanced, the system was straightforward, with hard buttons and dials for easy use, especially with gloves. Navigation and a 15-speaker JBL audio system were available. The system covered tech basics, but lacked features like a head-up display, which would have been beneficial for off-road driving.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assist, and evasive steering assist. The Explorer also featured post-collision braking and MyKey programmable functions. The NHTSA had not published complete crash-test ratings for 2022, but the previous year’s model earned five-star ratings, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner included the Toyota Safety Sense suite, with forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. The NHTSA awarded the 4Runner four stars for frontal and side-impact testing, and three stars for rollover testing. The 4Runner had not been evaluated by the IIHS. It was backed by a five-year/100,000-kilometre powertrain warranty.