2019 Ford Explorer vs 2019 Toyota Highlander Chicago IL

Features & Specs

Standard Engine Power

290 Horsepower

185 Horsepower

Cargo Space

21.0 cu. ft.

13.8 cu. ft,

Rear Leg Room

39.5 in.

38.4 in.

Standard Drivetrain

FWD

FWD

2019 Ford Explorer vs 2019 Toyota Highlander near Chicago, IL

Is your family looking for a new SUV that can take your family adventures to the next level? If so you have probably been searching through the packed crossover SUV segment for the model that is perfect for your lifestyle. We have picked two from the segment -- the 2019 Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander -- and we are comparing everything that they have to offer from engine power to standard features so you can make the most informed decision. The Explorer is coming into the 2019 model hot with tons of new features throughout the trim lineup and the Sport and Platinum models gain steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters! The Toyota Highlander has received just minor exterior updates for the 2019 model year. Keep reading to find out which one of these SUVs comes out on top!

2019 Ford Explorer Power & Handling

The Ford Explorer's engine lineup is quite impressive! The standard engine for the 2019 model year is a 3.5-liter V6 that generates up to 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. This engine is offered in both FWD and AWD configurations and can get up to 24 mpg on the highway. The second engine offered is a 2.6-liter turbo inline-4 that produces up to 280 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This engine is also available with both drivetrain configurations and it can achieve up to 27 mpg on the highway. The final engine, a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6, pumps out up to 365 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. This engine comes with standard AWD. All engines are mated to a smooth shifting six-speed automatic transmission.

2019 Toyota Highlander Power & Handling

There are just two engine options available for the 2019 Toyota Highlander. Up first is the standard 2.7-liter inline-4 that produces up to 185 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels only through the standard six-speed automatic transmission. For more power, you can opt for the available 3.5-liter V6 that generates up to 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. This engine is available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. This engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

2019 Ford Explorer Features & Design

The Ford brand offers the 2019 Explorer in a total of five trim levels. The entry-level base model starts the lineup off with standard features like Ford's Sync voice command system, a 4.2-inch central display screen, a rearview camera, a USB port, 18-inch wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, and a power-adjustable driver's seat.  The upper trim levels build on the base model with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, additional USB ports, an 8-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, leather upholstery, power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, power folding third-row seats, a panoramic sunroof, automated parking system, premium audio systems, and more!

2019 Toyota Highlander Features & Design

The 2019 Highlander is offered in six trim levels. The entry-level LE model begins with features like a 6.1-inch touchscreen, rearview camera, Bluetooth, five USB ports, a CD player, folding second and third-row seats, rear privacy glass, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The upper trim levels add on features like a sunroof, keyless entry and ignition, larger wheels, LED running lights, rear parking sensors, a JBL sound system, front parking sensors, a heated steering wheel, and a surround-view parking camera.

Conclusions

It may look like the Highlander has a little more to offer but it's clear the 2019 Ford Explorer is the winner here! The Explorer offers one more engine option than the Highlander and they entry-level engine is almost more powerful than any engine offered by the Toyota! Plus, the Explorer has more to offer in terms of features inside the cabin that your family will find most important. Check out the other reviews we have linked to learn more about the Explorer and other great Ford vehicles and then reach out to our sales team to check the Explorer out in person!

Read Our Other Reviews