2022 Ford Explorer vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, continuing its second generation into its 14th year, showcased a mature design that remained largely unchanged since its last complete makeover in 2008. Its exterior design adhered to the principle that "good taste never goes out of style," featuring a modestly sized grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight body lines. The Sequoia's dimensions were substantial, with a height of 1,956 millimetres, a width of 2,030 mm, and a length of 5,210 mm, riding on a 3,099 mm wheelbase. Despite its dated interior design, the Sequoia maintained high-quality materials and a robust build, ensuring durability for families. The Nightshade Special Edition model, based on the Limited trim, exemplified Toyota's efforts to keep the Sequoia relevant.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered a diverse lineup with six models available to Canadians, ranging from $47,799 to $66,759. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long and tall hood, a rakish roofline, and a tapering greenhouse, giving it an athletic appearance. The blacked-out roof pillars contributed to the "floating roof" effect. While higher-trim Explorers boasted quality materials, there were occasional reminders of the base trim. The Explorer King Ranch, a U.S.-spec model, showcased features not available in Canada, with the Platinum trim being the closest equivalent.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a single powertrain option: a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential, and a two-speed transfer case in 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck roots contributed to its impressive payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a maximum towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms. However, its weight of nearly 2,721.5 kilograms resulted in high fuel consumption ratings of 18.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 13.9 on the highway, and 16.4 combined. Despite its heft, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities enhanced by the TRD Pro model's Fox shocks.

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 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. The Explorer Limited offered a hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.3-litre V6 engine, producing a combined 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque. The Explorer ST and Platinum trims came with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine generating 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Explorer's ride was robust, with the Timberline model offering enhanced off-road capabilities. The Explorer's handling was athletic, with the ST model providing a sportier driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows with ample headroom and legroom. Three-zone climate control catered to all passengers, and a standard power moonroof added to the interior's appeal. The Sequoia's cargo space was generous, with 535 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,886 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 3,401 litres with both rear rows down. Storage options included a large centre console, glove compartment, and door pockets.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided 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. Higher-trim models offered features like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain's chairs. The Explorer's cargo space measured 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,264 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,132 litres with both rear rows down. While practical storage within the cabin was limited, the Explorer offered thoughtful features like built-in cupholders and a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system was outdated, featuring a 7-inch touchscreen with a clunky operating system. However, it included standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims added navigation and a JBL premium audio system. The Sequoia's technology under the hood lagged behind competitors, lacking modern powertrain options like turbocharging or electrification. However, it featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety technologies like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered two versions of its Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and navigation. Higher trims added wireless smartphone charging, a surround-view camera system, and a Bang and Olufsen premium sound system. However, the Explorer's Sync 3 system lagged behind Ford's newer Sync 4 technology, particularly in voice recognition capabilities. Additional tech features included a digital instrumentation display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS. However, it featured the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. The Sequoia also included a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Toyota's STAR safety system with stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. A full complement of airbags and safety features ensured passenger protection.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were incomplete. The Explorer came with Ford Co-Pilot360, offering 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. Additional safety features included post-collision braking and MyKey programmable functions.