2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Ford Explorer

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 tapering greenhouse, giving it a taut, athletic look. Blacked-out roof pillars created a "floating roof" effect, popular from previous generations. Inside, higher-trim Explorers mixed quality materials with some less impressive ones, but overall, the cabin felt worthy of its price.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, with a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia, giving it a rugged appearance. However, the design introduced some softness with a character line over the rear wheel arch, adding unnecessary visual weight. The rear echoed the grille's shape, resulting in a somewhat disjointed design compared to more cohesive competitors. Inside, the asymmetrical dash featured a metallic styling element, creating a helpful storage tray. The Bronze Edition test vehicle had unique bronze accents and light grey fabric upholstery, which, while visually interesting, attracted dirt and stains. The Softex synthetic leather felt more like vinyl, and genuine leather was only available on higher trims. The third row had more hard plastics, typical for family SUVs, but was less comfortable for adults.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims came with a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. It had a towing capacity of 2,400 kilograms and consumed between 10.3 and 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres. The hybrid drivetrain, available on the Limited trim, combined a 3.3-litre V6 engine for 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,268 kg and burning as little as 9.6 L/100 km. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, standard on the ST and Platinum trims, generated 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,540 kg and fuel consumption of 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain well, and felt athletic in daily driving.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It featured a CVT and standard AWD, with an electric motor powering the rear axle. It reached 100 km/h in just over eight seconds. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid response initially, with the gasoline engine supplying more power. The CVT's uninspired drone was noticeable when ascending hills. Braking was traditional, with regenerative braking recharging the hybrid batteries. The ride quality was soft, smoothing over bumps, and the cabin remained quiet on highways, making it one of the quieter midsize SUVs.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. The third-row seat was suitable only for children due to the rear-drive platform and low roofline. Fully equipped models featured 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. However, the third-row seat was difficult for adults to access. The Explorer's interior lacked practical storage, with missed opportunities for additional pockets and shelves. Cargo space was 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,132 litres with all seats folded.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, with plenty of adjustments for drivers. Storage was ample, with trays and a large centre armrest bin. The second-row seats were spacious, accommodating six-footers with ease, and featured sliding and reclining captain’s chairs. A second-row bench was available, increasing passenger capacity to eight. The third-row seat was less accommodating, intended for occasional use by children. Cargo space was 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,387 litres with all seats folded.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The smaller screen was well integrated, while the larger screen appeared as an afterthought. The system included FordPass Connect services, 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 Sync 3 system's voice recognition was less advanced than the newer Sync 4, with limitations in voice commands. Additional tech included a 12.3-inch digital display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's technology features included an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for top trims. The system was quick to respond, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging on higher trims. Navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system were standard on Limited and Platinum trims.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover rating. It featured Ford Co-Pilot360, including 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 had post-collision braking and MyKey programmable functions.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert. A surround-view camera and head-up display were available on the top trim. The safety systems generally worked well but could use fine-tuning.