2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2023 Ford Explorer

MODEL COMPARISON

2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2023 Ford Explorer Hybrid SUV Comparison

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid and 2023 Ford Explorer Hybrid were designed to take care of big crowds and use less gas doing it. How do the two rivals compare? Let’s take a look.

VIEW INVENTORY

6 Ways to Compare the 2023 Highlander Hybrid vs the Ford Explorer

Finding the right 3 row SUV for families today often leads shoppers to the Toyota Highlander and the Ford Explorer. So it’s only natural that hybrid shoppers would look closely at these two when deciding which one to test drive.


It should be noted at the start of this comparison that the two brands have different ways of offering hybrid technology. While the Ford hybrid is simply part of the Explorer lineup, the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a separate model.


Trying to offer the pros and cons of both, we’ve gathered the facts and figures that are of most interest to modern car shoppers. Hopefully it will help with your decision making.

  1. Trim Levels and Pricing Considerations

    Ford makes the hybrid available on the Explorer Limited as an upgrade. This would put it above the regular Explorer Limited price of $47,070 MSRP. The hybrid powertrain is standard on the Platinum with an Explorer price of $53,820 MSRP.

    Toyota Highlander Hybrids start at a lower price point but there are premium trims in the lineup. The LE Highlander Hybrid price starts at $40,220. The Highlander Hybrid Platinum tops out at $52,625 MSRP. In between, the shopper can choose from XLE, Bronze Edition, Limited and Platinum hybrid trims.

    If you analyze just by price, you see that the Highlander Hybrid makes itself available to more buyers simply by keeping the initial asking price low. From that standpoint, we’d say that the Toyota has the upper hand over the Ford in this category. For the most accurate Highlander Hybrid price, get a quick quote.

  2. Style and Features

    For those looking at the top trims, they may want to dig deeper than the price. Of course, it always pays to look at how the features are packaged. Value is very important when analyzing a car choice.

    Even at the LE trim level, the Toyota hybrid cabin is furnished with plush seating and soft-padded surfaces. A tailored look is accomplished with the stitching that joins the door to the instrument panel. The steering wheel controls are carefully inset to add a luxury-level touch.

    The Bronze edition wears SofTex trim and fabric inserts on its seats. A bronze stitching brings the modern look together.

    The Limited editions of the Toyota and Ford are similar with leather upholstery and a longer list of standards. Comparing the two Platinum models, you’ll find plenty of leather seats and top luxuries in both.

    This category is a toss up, but this critic leans toward the Toyota for offering so many choices. The Highlander Hybrid Platinum has embossed, perforated leather with a choice of four colors.

    Style is personal. So the best idea is to see it yourself. You can check out the 2023 Highlander Hybrid cabins and interior color schemes at your Earnhardt Toyota dealer.

  3. Performance and Efficiency

    With ample power, the Highlander Hybrid can stay competitive in every situation. Fuel efficiency is the goal with this hybrid, and it earns 36 miles per gallon combined. That’s 8 miles per gallon better than the Explorer Hybrid.

    With more power, the Ford prioritizes the driver over ownership costs. Still, it earns 27 mpg, enviable since this is a 3-row SUV.

    While rear-wheel drive is standard on the Explorer Hybrid, front-wheel drive is standard on the Highlander Hybrid. So this may affect which one is right for you. Of course, all wheel drive is offered on both.

    The Highlander Hybrid offers an important AWD break-through. The electronic on-demand all-wheel drive delivers its commands through a dedicated rear-wheel electric motor. This is the most direct way to get a response. It certainly provides instant traction.

    In this category, Ford has the lead on performance, but Toyota has the lead on hybrid fuel economy. Since fuel savings are a big reason people shop for hybrids, it feels like Toyota should take the victory lap in this instance.

  1. Passenger and Cargo Space

    Unlike some hybrids, the 2023 Highlander Hybrid maintains ample passenger space and cargo space. The battery is tucked away in the middle, under the second row. This helps with weight distribution. It also means that the third row and cargo hold aren’t compromised.

    With five trims, the Highlander Hybrid offers some trims with 2nd row bench seating and others with standard center captain’s chairs. The Ford Hybrid Limited and Platinum have standard 7-person seating like the Toyota Hybrid Limited and Platinum.

    Like a large sedan, the 2023 Highlander Hybrid has 16 cubic feet in the cargo hold. That’s slightly less than the Ford’s 18 cubic feet.

    With seats folded, the Highlander Hybrid cargo volume jumps to 48.4 cubes, slightly surpassing the Ford measurements. Then with all seats down, it offers 84.3 cubes -- about 3 cubes less than the Ford. Still, either one has plenty of room for your vacation luggage, and either one will make an excellent hauler when it’s time for your teen to go to college.

    This comparison is a toss-up with the two hybrids offering similar space that is divided up differently. However, the Toyota should make your teens more comfortable thanks to the extra second-row legroom. You can find out about financing options with our simple online application.

  2. Entertainment Technology and Connectivity

    As for entertainment systems, the Highlander Hybrid LE has a large 8-inch touchscreen, full connectivity features, and a 7-inch driver’s screen in the gauge cluster. The hybrid Bronze Edition has a 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen. Highlander Hybrid Limited and Platinum models have dual 12.3-inch screens, adding a full digital instrument cluster.

    Toyota can be proud of its over the air updates to keep the system as contemporary as possible. Furthermore, it offers an Intelligent Assistant that responds to Hey Toyota. It can handle everything from changing the temperature and audio to finding points of interest and giving directions.

    The Ford Explorer Hybrid Platinum and Limited models have a 10.1 vertical navigation touchscreen and a 6.5-inch color productivity driver’s display. Like the Toyota, standards include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and HD Radio. Both hybrids have a WiFi hotspot available and offer tri-zone automatic climate controls.

    It’s hard to rate one better than the other when it comes to technology. If you are a tech geek, the best idea is to try out the dash tech at your Earnhardt Toyota dealer. You can see for yourself how smart it is and how well the interface works with your phone.

  1. Driver Assistance

    Even with their lower price point, Highlander Hybrids come with everything you can expect for the price. Like the more expensive 2023 Explorer Hybrid, it has a pre-collision system, autobrake, and pedestrian detection. Its adaptive cruise control is Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar controlled (DRCC). Toyota Safety Sense includes lane tracing assist and road sign assist to complement the DRCC.

    Like the Ford it has a lane departure assist with steering assist, automatic high beams. and blind spot assistance. In terms of must-have modern safety features, the Highlander Hybrid is totally on par with the Ford despite the lower initial asking price.

Conclusion

If you are on a budget, the 2023 Highlander Hybrid is definitely the way to go. Not only does it cost less, but it has much better fuel economy. If you are less focused on budgeting and more on style, you can’t go wrong with the Highlander Hybrid. It offers just as much in the way of tech, driver assistance, and style as the Explorer Hybrid.


If you want to take a test drive, Earnhardt Toyota is your destination.



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VIN: 5TDKDRAH8PS018341
Stock: P8033
61,265 mi
Ext.: Celestial Silver Metallic
Int.: Black

Features

  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth®
  • 3rd Rear Seat
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Heated Seats

More Details

Dealer Comments
1-OWNER, ACCIDENT-FREE CARFAX REPORT!
Features include power windows, tilt wheel, cruise control, hands-free phone, steering wheel audio controls, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay compatible, backup camera, heated seats, cup holders, console, moonroof, dual power seats, third row seating, power lift gate, 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, 8-speed automatic transmission and more.
This has 18" wheels and the tires have good tread on them. The Celestial Silver exterior shows nicely with no crucial damages or flaws. The Black upholstery is in good condition with no serious wear or tears present. This has been owned in Arizona since new and currently has 61k miles, please come in for your test drive today!
Why should you buy from Earnhardt Toyota?
1. We are a family owned and operated business for over 70 years!
2. We are at the top in customer satisfaction for 4 years running!
3. We have award winning sales, service and parts departments!
4. We have received Toyota's top honor, the President's Award, 4 years in a row!
5. We offer a friendly, no pressure atmosphere!
6. For every vehicle we sell, we donate to the Mesa Child Crisis Center.
  • $30,587 No Bull Price

  • Retail Price: $36,000
  • No Bull Price: $30,587
  • YOU SAVE: $5,413

VIN: 5TDZZRAH5MS039353
Stock: T41608A
71,031 mi
Ext.: Moon Dust
Int.: Graphite

Features

  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth®
  • 3rd Rear Seat
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Keyless Entry

More Details

Dealer Comments
1-OWNER, ACCIDENT-FREE CARFAX REPORT!
Features include power windows, tilt wheel, cruise control, hands-free phone, steering wheel audio controls, SiriusXM capable, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay compatible, backup camera, cup holders, console, power seat, third row seating, power lift gate, 3.5L V6 engine, 8-speed automatic transmission and more.
This has 18" wheels and the tires have good tread on them. The Moon Dust exterior shows nicely with no crucial damages or flaws. The Graphite upholstery is in good condition with no serious tears present. This has been owned in Arizona since new and currently has 71k miles, please come in for your test drive today!
Why should you buy from Earnhardt Toyota?
1. We are a family owned and operated business for over 70 years!
2. We are at the top in customer satisfaction for 4 years running!
3. We have award winning sales, service and parts departments!
4. We have received Toyota's top honor, the President's Award, 4 years in a row!
5. We offer a friendly, no pressure atmosphere!
6. For every vehicle we sell, we donate to the Mesa Child Crisis Center.

VIN: 5TDYZRAH3MS082147
Stock: T41862A
23,632 mi
Ext.: Celestial Silver Metallic
Int.: Black

Features

  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth®
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • 3rd Rear Seat
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay

More Details

Dealer Comments
1-OWNER!
 
Features include power windows, tilt wheel, cruise control, hands-free phone, steering wheel audio controls, SiriusXM capable, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay compatible, backup camera, navigation, heated and ventilated seats, cup holders, console, moonroof, dual power seats, third row seating, power lift gate, roof rack, 3.5L V6 engine, 8-speed automatic transmission and more.
This has 20" wheels and the tires have good tread on them. The Celestial Silver exterior shows nicely with no crucial damages or flaws. The Black upholstery is in good condition with no serious wear or tears present. This has been owned in Arizona since new and currently has 23k miles, please come in for your test drive today!
Why should you buy from Earnhardt Toyota?
1. We are a family owned and operated business for over 70 years! 
2. We are at the top in customer satisfaction for 4 years running!
3. We have award winning sales, service and parts departments!
4. We have received Toyota's top honor, the President's Award, 4 years in a row!
5. We offer a friendly, no pressure atmosphere!
6. For every vehicle we sell, we donate to the Mesa Child Crisis Center. 

VIN: 5TDYZRAHXMS084848
Stock: T41675A
45,278 mi
Ext.: Opulent Amber
Int.: Black

Features

  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth®
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • 3rd Rear Seat
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay

More Details

Dealer Comments
1-OWNER!
Features include power windows, tilt wheel, cruise control, hands-free phone, steering wheel audio controls, SiriusXM capable, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay compatible, backup camera, heated and ventilated front seats, cup holders, console, moonroof, dual power seats, third row seating, power lift gate, 3.5L V6 engine, 8-speed automatic transmission and more.
This has 20" wheels and the tires have good tread on them. The Opulent Amber exterior shows nicely with no crucial damages or flaws. The Black upholstery is in good condition with no serious wear or tears present. This has been owned in Arizona since new and currently has 45k miles, please come in for your test drive today!
Why should you buy from Earnhardt Toyota?
1. We are a family owned and operated business for over 70 years!
2. We are at the top in customer satisfaction for 4 years running!
3. We have award winning sales, service and parts departments!
4. We have received Toyota's top honor, the President's Award, 4 years in a row!
5. We offer a friendly, no pressure atmosphere!
6. For every vehicle we sell, we donate to the Mesa Child Crisis Center.

VIN: 5TDHZRAH7MS072365
Stock: T42146A
50,200 mi
Ext.: Opulent Amber
Int.: Harvest Beige

Features

  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth®
  • 3rd Rear Seat
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Heated Seats

More Details

Dealer Comments
CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED 1-OWNER, ACCIDENT-FREE CARFAX REPORT!
Features include power windows, tilt wheel, cruise control, hands-free phone, steering wheel audio controls, SiriusXM capable, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay compatible, backup camera, heated seats, dual power seats, cup holders, console, moonroof, power lift gate, third row seating, 3.5L V6 engine, 8-speed automatic transmission and more.
This has 18" wheels and the tires have good tread on them. The Opulent Amber exterior shows nicely with no crucial damages or flaws. The Harvest Beige upholstery is in good condition with no serious wear or tears present. This has been owned in Arizona since new and currently has 50k miles, please come in for your test drive today!
Why should you buy from Earnhardt Toyota?
1. We are a family owned and operated business for over 70 years!
2. We are at the top in customer satisfaction for 4 years running!
3. We have award winning sales, service and parts departments!
4. We have received Toyota's top honor, the President's Award, 4 years in a row!
5. We offer a friendly, no pressure atmosphere!
6. For every vehicle we sell, we donate to the Mesa Child Crisis Center.
Certified Pre-Owned means you not only get the reassurance of a 12 month/12,000 mile Limited Comprehensive Warranty, but also up to a 7 year/100,000 mile Limited Powertrain Warranty, a 160-point Quality Assurance Inspection, 1 year Roadside Assistance, trip-interruption benefits, rental car benefits and a complete Carfax vehicle history report.

VIN: 5TDKDRAH9PS042373
Stock: T42042A
11,853 mi
Ext.: Wind Chill Pearl
Int.: Black

Features

  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth®
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • 3rd Rear Seat
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay

More Details

Dealer Comments
1-OWNER, ACCIDENT-FREE CARFAX REPORT!
Features include power windows, tilt wheel, cruise control, hands-free phone, steering wheel audio controls, SiriusXM capable, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay compatible, backup camera, heated and ventilated seats, cup holders, console, moonroof, dual power seats, third row seating, power lift gate, roof rack, 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, 8-speed automatic transmission and more.
This has 20" wheels and the tires have good tread on them. The Wind Chill Pearl exterior shows nicely with no crucial damages or flaws. The Black upholstery is in good condition with no serious wear or tears present. This has been owned in Arizona since new and currently has 11k miles, please come in for your test drive today!
Why should you buy from Earnhardt Toyota?
1. We are a family owned and operated business for over 70 years!
2. We are at the top in customer satisfaction for 4 years running!
3. We have award winning sales, service and parts departments!
4. We have received Toyota's top honor, the President's Award, 4 years in a row!
5. We offer a friendly, no pressure atmosphere!
6. For every vehicle we sell, we donate to the Mesa Child Crisis Center.

VIN: 5TDCZRAH6LS004129
Stock: P8258
65,316 mi
Ext.: Magnetic Gray Metallic
Int.: Gray

Features

  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth®
  • 3rd Rear Seat
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Keyless Entry

More Details

Dealer Comments
CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED 1-OWNER, ACCIDENT-FREE CARFAX REPORT!
Features include power windows, tilt wheel, cruise control, hands-free phone, steering wheel audio controls, SiriusXM capable, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay compatible, backup camera, cup holders, console, power driver's seat, third row seating, 3.5L V6 engine, 8-speed automatic transmission and more.
This has 18" wheels and the tires have good tread on them. The Magnetic Gray exterior shows nicely with no crucial damages or flaws. The Gray upholstery is in good condition with no serious wear or tears present. This has been owned in California and Florida since new and currently has 65k miles, please come in for your test drive today!
Why should you buy from Earnhardt Toyota?
1. We are a family owned and operated business for over 70 years!
2. We are at the top in customer satisfaction for 4 years running!
3. We have award winning sales, service and parts departments!
4. We have received Toyota's top honor, the President's Award, 4 years in a row!
5. We offer a friendly, no pressure atmosphere!
6. For every vehicle we sell, we donate to the Mesa Child Crisis Center.
Certified Pre-Owned means you not only get the reassurance of a 12 month/12,000 mile Limited Comprehensive Warranty, but also up to a 7 year/100,000 mile Limited Powertrain Warranty, a 160-point Quality Assurance Inspection, 1 year Roadside Assistance, trip-interruption benefits, rental car benefits and a complete Carfax vehicle history report.

VIN: 5TDYZRFH8JS274605
Stock: T42073A
55,305 mi
Ext.: Blizzard Pearl
Int.: Almond

Features

  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth®
  • 3rd Rear Seat
  • Keyless Entry
  • Keyless Ignition System
  • Leather Seats

More Details

Dealer Comments
CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED 1-OWNER!
Features include power windows, tilt wheel, cruise control, hands-free phone, steering wheel audio controls, AM/FM/CD player, SiriusXM capable, backup camera, navigation, heated seats, cup holders, console, moonroof, dual power seats, third row seating, power lift gate, 3.5L V6 engine, 8-speed automatic transmission and more.
This has 19" wheels and the tires have good tread on them. The Blizzard Pearl exterior shows nicely with no crucial damages or flaws. The Almond upholstery is in good condition with no serious wear or tears present. This has been owned in Arizona since new and currently has 55k miles, please come in for your test drive today!
Why should you buy from Earnhardt Toyota?
1. We are a family owned and operated business for over 70 years!
2. We are at the top in customer satisfaction for 4 years running!
3. We have award winning sales, service and parts departments!
4. We have received Toyota's top honor, the President's Award, 4 years in a row!
5. We offer a friendly, no pressure atmosphere!
6. For every vehicle we sell, we donate to the Mesa Child Crisis Center.
Certified Pre-Owned means you not only get the reassurance of a 12 month/12,000 mile Limited Comprehensive Warranty, but also up to a 7 year/100,000 mile Limited Powertrain Warranty, a 160-point Quality Assurance Inspection, 1 year Roadside Assistance, trip-interruption benefits, rental car benefits and a complete Carfax vehicle history report.

VIN: 5TDKDRAH9RS540186
Stock: T42171
In Transit
Ext.: Moon Dust
Int.: Black Softex® 

Features

  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth®
  • 3rd Rear Seat
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Heated Seats
  • $44,984 No Bull Price:

  • Total SRP 153 $45,729
  • $999
  • Dealer Adjustment: -$1,744
  • Advertised Price162 $44,984
  • No Bull Price: 163 $44,984

Vehicle may be in transit. Contact dealer to confirm availability.
Estimated availability 05/14/24
VIN: 5TDKDRBH8RS559195
Stock: T42249
In Transit
Ext.: Celestial Silver Metallic
Int.: Graphite Fabric

Features

  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth®
  • 3rd Rear Seat
  • 4WD/AWD
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • $42,734 No Bull Price:

  • Total SRP 153 $43,221
  • $999
  • Dealer Adjustment: -$1,486
  • Advertised Price162 $42,734
  • No Bull Price: 163 $42,734

Vehicle may be in transit. Contact dealer to confirm availability.
Estimated availability 05/22/24
VIN: 5TDKDRAH3RS541074
Stock: T42250
In Transit
Ext.: Magnetic Gray Metallic
Int.: Black Softex® 

Features

  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth®
  • 3rd Rear Seat
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Heated Seats
  • $44,126 No Bull Price:

  • Total SRP 153 $44,702
  • $999
  • Dealer Adjustment: -$1,575
  • Advertised Price162 $44,126
  • No Bull Price: 163 $44,126

Vehicle may be in transit. Contact dealer to confirm availability.
Estimated availability 05/22/24
VIN: 5TDKDRAH6RS540694
Stock: T42234
In Transit
Ext.: Wind Chill Pearl
Int.: Black Softex® 

Features

  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth®
  • 3rd Rear Seat
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Heated Seats
  • $44,156 No Bull Price:

  • Total SRP 153 $44,747
  • $999
  • Dealer Adjustment: -$1,590
  • Advertised Price162 $44,156
  • No Bull Price: 163 $44,156

Vehicle may be in transit. Contact dealer to confirm availability.
Estimated availability 05/21/24

Actual vehicle price and payments may vary for various reasons - including but not limited to - applicable manufacturer rebates, special limited time offers, dealer incentives, taxes, fees, and buyer's credit qualifications, dealer add-ons, market product (or vehicle) scarcity and $599.00 dealer doc fee. Financing on approved credit. Must qualify for some offers. Some offers may not be available with special financing, lease and some other offers.

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