2022 Ford Explorer vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, a continuation of its second generation, maintained a classic design that had aged gracefully over the years. Its exterior was characterized by a modestly sized grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight lines, giving it a substantial presence. Despite its mature design, the Sequoia's interior felt dated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen that seemed out of place in a modern SUV. However, the interior was well-constructed, with high-quality materials and a focus on durability, making it suitable for families. The Nightshade Special Edition added a contemporary touch with darkened chrome and black-painted finishes, enhancing its visual appeal.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer offered a more diverse lineup with eight models, including the luxurious King Ranch trim. The Explorer's design was athletic, with a long hood, rakish roofline, and a "floating roof" effect. Inside, the King Ranch featured exclusive Del Rio leather seating and a mix of quality materials. While the cabin mostly lived up to its price point, some elements reminded occupants of the Explorer's base trim. The Explorer's design and features made it an appealing choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and sportiness.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and offered a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential and a two-speed transfer case in 4WD models. The Sequoia had a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds and could tow up to 7,400 pounds. However, its fuel economy was a drawback, with ratings of 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway/15 mpg combined for RWD and 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway/14 mpg combined for 4WD. Despite its weight, the Sequoia provided a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities, thanks to its robust construction and suspension system.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided a towing capacity of 5,300 pounds and up to 24 mpg in combined driving. The Explorer also offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-liter V6 engine, delivering 318 horsepower and 322 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and up to 27 mpg combined. For those seeking more power, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine was available, generating 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 5,600 pounds and 21 mpg combined. The Explorer's ride was robust and capable, with off-road capabilities enhanced in the Timberline model.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows. It featured three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and available heated and ventilated front seats. The Sequoia's cargo space was versatile, with 18.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 66.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 120.1 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The interior provided ample storage options, making it practical for families.

The 2022 Ford Explorer, particularly in the King Ranch trim, offered comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. The King Ranch featured triple-zone climate control, a heated steering wheel, and massaging front seats. However, the third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. The Explorer's cabin lacked practical storage solutions, but it offered a hands-free power liftgate and 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87.8 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology was outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen. However, it included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, WiFi connectivity, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Limited trim added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, while a premium package offered a 14-speaker JBL audio system. Despite its dated infotainment, the Sequoia featured modern LED lighting and safety technologies.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The King Ranch trim included FordPass Connect, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the Sync 3 system lagged behind Ford's newer Sync 4 technology, with limitations in voice recognition and functionality. The Explorer also featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but it was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, including pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. It also featured a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Toyota's STAR safety system, which included stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. The Sequoia's safety features aimed to prevent accidents and protect occupants.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS, though NHTSA had not published complete ratings. The Explorer came with Ford Co-Pilot360, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and evasive steering assist. The Explorer also featured post-collision braking and MyKey programmable functions, enhancing safety for families.