2022 Ford Expedition vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Ford Expedition underwent a series of updates to redefine its exterior styling and infotainment technology. With a newly designed grille, headlights, and bumper at the front, and revised taillights, tailgate trim, and bumper at the rear, the Expedition presented a fresh, modern look. New wheels also became part of the lineup for this model year. The Expedition was available in multiple trims, including the XL STX, XLT, Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum, with prices spanning from a bit over $55,000 to nearly $84,000. An off-road-friendly Timberline trim was also introduced, offering features like 4WD and Trail Turn Assist at about $72,500. The Stealth Edition packages, exclusive to the Limited trim, added black 22-inch wheels and specific styling cues. Inside, the Expedition featured a redesigned dashboard housing the new Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, with our Limited Stealth Edition test vehicle sporting leather seats and a large 15.5-inch touchscreen display. At approximately $80,155, our test vehicle included additional features like 4WD, extra-cost paint, the Stealth Package, and more.

Revisiting the look and feel of the 2023 Toyota 4Runner, specifically the 40th Anniversary Special Edition (40 ASE), it built on the SR5 Premium trim level. This special edition could only be visualized in black, white, or red paint with a black artificial leather interior. It was equipped with retro body stripes, a heritage grille, and bronze-colored accents. The 4Runner lineup included various trims such as SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and others, with prices ranging from $39,555 to $54,020, plus a $1,335 destination charge. The 40 ASE we tested was priced at $48,455 without any additional options. Notably, this model exuded a nostalgic 1970s vibe, which garnered compliments, and its timeless truck-based SUV design continued to attract an audience. Inside, while the 4Runner was filled with plastic components, it provided a solid and quality feel complemented by user-friendly controls.

The 2022 Ford Expedition utilized a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine across all versions. Our test model, without the high-output version, produced 380 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 470 lb-ft of torque at 2,250 rpm. With 93-octane fuel, it could reach up to 400 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Expedition offered towing capacities between 9,000 and 9,300 pounds. Fuel economy averaged between 17 and 19 mpg in combined driving, but our testing yielded 16.2 mpg. We found this engine configuration to be powerful, contributing to the smooth hauling and driving experience. However, the sport-tuned suspension in our Stealth Edition could be harsh on imperfect roads, with the 22-inch wheels adding to the ride firmness. Still, parking proved manageable thanks to excellent visibility and advanced parking aids. Highway performance was impressive, with a comfortable and quiet ride particularly beneficial for long family trips.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured a 4.0-liter V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 278 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The standard towing capacity stood at 5,000 pounds. Also offering 4WD, the 4Runner had a consistent EPA fuel economy rating of 17 mpg, which matched our real-world observation of 16.9 mpg. Various trims provided specific enhancements like locking differentials, Crawl Control, and Multi-Terrain Select, making the 4Runner highly capable off-road. Our off-roading experience proved the 4Runner's potential, managing challenging conditions during severe weather effortlessly. Yet, its on-road performance exhibited some drawbacks, including slow acceleration, heavy steering, and unpredictable braking response. Despite earning a reputation as a rugged SUV, it showed its limitations on paved roads, particularly in terms of handling and comfort during regular errands and suburban commutes.

In the 2022 Ford Expedition, interior space and comfort set a high standard. Power running boards facilitated easy entry and exit. The test vehicle was outfitted with luxurious, power-adjustable, leather-wrapped heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. At the front, a wide console offered extensive storage, including a concealed cubby with a wireless smartphone charging pad. Second-row passengers enjoyed plentiful legroom and climate control options, although toe room was slightly tight. The third row provided outstanding leg support and adequate headroom, including power recline functions. In terms of cargo, the Expedition offered 19.3 cubic feet behind the third-row, expandable to 57.5 cubic feet by folding the third row, and up to 104.6 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The Expedition Max variant offered even more space for families needing additional storage while carrying passengers.

Conversely, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner's interior design focused on practicality and durability. The highlight was the power down back window in the tailgate, providing exceptional ventilation and an interactive driving experience. Entry could be challenging for shorter individuals, but once inside, occupants found the seating comfortable. The 40 ASE model featured heated SofTex artificial leather seats. The second row was roomy with good leg and headroom, USB ports, and A/C vents. Despite the availability of a third-row seat, its cramped nature and reduction in cargo space made it less practical. The cargo space in the five-passenger setup offered 46.3 cubic feet behind the second row, and up to 89.7 cubic feet with the second row folded down. Additional features included storage cubbies, a 120-volt power outlet, and an optional sliding floor, aiding practicality for day-to-day use and adventures alike.

The 2022 Ford Expedition received the advanced Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, centralizing technology in the cabin. The standard setup included a 12-inch touchscreen, while the upgraded Sync 4A came with a 15.5-inch display. Both systems featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, FordPass Connect, natural voice recognition, and a connected navigation system. The Sync 4A introduced a sophisticated adaptive dashcard interface and driver profiles. Our test with the 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio had mixed results but highlighted the potential for the optional 22-speaker system. Although the technology was advanced, some quirks like accidental defroster activation and complex voice recognition presented challenges. The Expedition also included Pro Trailer Backup Assist 2.0, enhancing its functionality for towing tasks.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner offered simpler in-cabin technology but catered to effective use. While primarily analog with an 8-inch touchscreen, it included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Controls were large and user-friendly, especially beneficial in cold climates. Upgraded options included a navigation system and a JBL premium sound system, both of which were known for bass-heavy output. Despite dated graphics, the infotainment system displayed multiple functions on the home screen, outshining newer Toyota setups in some respects. Voice recognition performed reliably, though it couldn't handle some commands like adjusting cabin temperature.

The 2022 Ford Expedition's safety technologies were grouped into the Ford Co-Pilot360 packages, offering a range of features. Standard inclusions were forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and new additions like intersection and evasive steering assist. Higher trims included Ford Co-Pilot Assist 2.0, with features like a surround-view camera and rear automatic emergency braking. The Expedition’s adaptive cruise control delivered a smooth and refined experience, but the lane-centering tech required frequent attention and sometimes felt unreliable, reducing overall confidence in its use.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner included essential Toyota Safety Sense features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. For 2023, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert became standard across all trim levels. The adaptive cruise control impressed with its smooth application of brakes, though the lane-departure system’s audible warnings could become intrusive. The 4Runner's crash test ratings showed some limitations, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and lower scores for front passenger protection and rollover resistance. The IIHS had not tested the 4Runner comprehensively, rating it marginal in small overlap frontal impact tests.