Ford Explorer vs Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid

The 2026 Ford Explorer retained much of its previous design, having undergone a facelift in 2025 that introduced a more rugged, truck-like appearance. This design was particularly well-suited for the Tremor model, which enhanced its off-road capabilities with features like all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, a raised ride height, and off-road lights integrated into the grille. The Tremor also sported a distinctive Electric Spice color, reminiscent of Subaru's Wilderness models. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Tremor offered the highest clearance among Explorer models, surpassing competitors like the Chevrolet Traverse Z71 and Honda Pilot TrailSport. The Explorer's interior, updated in 2025, featured a new infotainment system, but the materials in the Tremor model did not quite match its price point. Despite various trim options, the Explorer's design remained somewhat generic, lacking standout flair.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, available with a standard turbocharged engine, a hybrid powertrain, and the powerful Hybrid Max configuration, offered a range of trim levels from LE to Platinum. The Grand Highlander Hybrid Max Platinum, tested in Storm Cloud paint, presented a conservative design reminiscent of the RAV4, scaled up to accommodate up to eight passengers and ample cargo space. The interior prioritized function over form, with the Platinum trim adding a touch of luxury. While the climate system was user-friendly, the infotainment interface had room for improvement, particularly with its small volume knob and lack of a tuning knob. Overall, the Grand Highlander provided a practical and spacious environment, though some storage areas were unlined, potentially contributing to cabin noise.

The 2026 Ford Explorer maintained its powertrain options, featuring a standard 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Tremor and ST models offered a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard on most trims and all-wheel drive available. The Explorer's unibody design, shared with the Mustang and Lincoln Aviator, contributed to its confident handling and comfortable ride, even in the off-road-oriented Tremor model. The twin-turbo V6 provided ample power for passing and towing, while the 10-speed automatic ensured smooth gear transitions. Off-road, the Tremor demonstrated impressive capability, handling challenging terrain with ease.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max emphasized performance with its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and electronic full-time AWD, producing 362 horsepower. This setup allowed the Grand Highlander to accelerate swiftly, aided by a traditional six-speed automatic transmission that avoided the droning typical of CVTs. While the Hybrid Max sacrificed some fuel efficiency, achieving 27 mpg compared to the Hybrid's 36 mpg, it offered a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. During testing, the Hybrid Max averaged 23.3 mpg on a mountainous route, with an expected range of 24-25 mpg in typical driving conditions. The powertrain provided confident acceleration, while the ride quality remained soft and isolating, though handling was secure only up to a modest point.

The 2026 Ford Explorer accommodated up to seven passengers across three rows, with an option for second-row captain’s chairs reducing capacity to six. While the Explorer offered reasonable space, it fell short in headroom and legroom compared to some competitors like the Honda Pilot. Cargo space was competitive, with 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 85.3 cubic feet with the second row folded. The Explorer provided ample storage options, including large door pockets and a center console bin, though it lacked unique features like underfloor storage. With a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, the Explorer matched the average for midsize crossovers.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid excelled in interior space, offering comfortable seating across three rows and nearly 100 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. The Platinum trim featured a Portobello interior with leather and artificial suede upholstery, adding an upscale touch. While the rear doors posed challenges for child seat installation, the second-row captain’s chairs allowed easy access to the third row. The Grand Highlander provided 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 97.5 cubic feet with the second row folded. Despite limited underfloor storage, the Grand Highlander offered ample space for family road trips.

The 2026 Ford Explorer came equipped with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Google Maps, and SiriusXM with 360L satellite radio. USB-C ports were standard across all rows, with a USB-A port for first-row occupants. The infotainment system, introduced in 2025, offered simple graphics and responsive inputs, though climate control icons could be more user-friendly. The available 360-degree camera system provided valuable off-road assistance, remaining active at higher speeds for enhanced utility.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system across all trims, with higher trims offering a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and access to various Toyota Connected Services. While the infotainment system was generally user-friendly, it lacked the ability to display multiple main-menu screens simultaneously, and the low-contrast font could be challenging to read. The digital voice assistant responded accurately to commands, enhancing the overall experience. The Platinum trim included advanced features like a head-up display and a premium JBL audio system.

The 2026 Ford Explorer featured the CoPilot 360+ suite, including adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Higher trims added CoPilot 360 2.0, with a 360-degree camera system and predictive speed assist. The Explorer also offered BlueCruise 1.5, a hands-free highway driving system with automated lane-change capability. The Explorer received top safety ratings, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features. While the Proactive Driving Assist system was found to be irritating, the overall safety tech operated with accuracy. The Grand Highlander received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but fell short of the IIHS Top Safety Pick due to headlight performance and frontal-impact protection ratings.