2022 Toyota Venza 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 introduced the sporty ST-Line for 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. Inside, higher-trim Explorers combined quality materials with some questionable ones, reflecting its diverse model lineup. The cabin mostly felt worthy of its price, though hints of the base trim occasionally surfaced.

The 2022 Toyota Venza re-emerged on the TGNA-K platform, shared with several Toyota and Lexus models, offering a proven formula. Measuring 4,739 mm in length, the Venza was on the shorter side of the midsize crossover segment. Its modern exterior design, with a deeply scalloped body and LED lighting, gave it a Lexus-like appearance. The interior mirrored this elegance, featuring high-quality materials and a well-placed touchscreen display. The Venza's cabin was spacious, with supportive front seats and ample room for three adults in the rear, making it a comfortable family vehicle.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims came with a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, producing 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 Explorer Limited offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6 engine, generating 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,268 kg, and achieving 9.6 L/100 km. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, standard on the ST and Platinum trims, delivered 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 provided a robust ride, excelling in off-road conditions with its Trail setting and ground clearance of up to 22.1 cm in the Timberline model.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine and three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. The hybrid system balanced electric and gas drive for optimal efficiency, with electric motors at the rear axle providing AWD. Drivers could choose from EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport modes. Regenerative braking recharged the lithium-ion battery, while the gas engine's motor-generator provided the main charge. The Venza offered sprightly performance and agile handling, with a wheelbase shared with the Camry, making it maneuverable. Its taller body and higher ground clearance were not designed for aggressive cornering but provided a comfortable ride for family travel.

The 2022 Ford Explorer accommodated families of four comfortably, with an optional second-row bench seat for occasional five-person capacity. The third-row seat was best suited for children due to the rear-drive platform and low roofline. Higher trims featured amenities like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain’s chairs. The Explorer offered 528 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,264 litres with the third row folded, and 2,132 litres with both rear rows down. However, practical storage within the cabin was limited, with missed opportunities for additional pockets and shelves.

The 2022 Toyota Venza seated five in two rows, with ample headroom and legroom. The second row offered 114.8 cm of hip room, suitable for three adults. The cabin felt spacious, especially with the Star Gaze panoramic sunroof on the Limited trim. Convenience features included an overhead console, power-adjustable front seats, and an electric parking brake. The Venza provided 816 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 1,560 litres with the seats folded. Toyota focused on creating a quiet cabin, using sound-blocking materials throughout, resulting in a serene driving experience.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The larger screen appeared as an afterthought, lacking integration with the dashboard. 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 Venza's hybrid system required no special attention, offering a seamless driving experience without charging infrastructure concerns. The Predicted Efficient Drive program optimized battery charging using navigation data. The Venza LE featured an 8-inch touchscreen, AM/FM/HD Radio, SiriusXM, and smartphone connectivity. The XLE and Limited trims added a JBL audio system, 12.3-inch touchscreen, and navigation. The Limited also included a head-up display, rain-sensing wipers, and a digital rearview mirror. Toyota Connected Services provided additional safety and convenience features.

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, and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer also included post-collision braking and MyKey programmable functions. The system operated smoothly, though it occasionally lacked steering wheel sensitivity.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came with the Toyota Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. It featured eight airbags and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The Venza also had a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking assist. It received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.