If you’re comparing the 2025 Ford Explorer vs. the Toyota Highlander to find the best midsize SUV for your family, you’re not alone. At John Kennedy Ford in Pottstown, PA, we help local drivers make the right call every day. From performance and interior tech to safety and off-road capability, here’s how these two SUVs stack up — and why the Explorer might be the better fit for Pottstown area drivers.
Performance and Powertrains
The 2025 Ford Explorer stands out in its class, boasting a powerful engine and impressive fuel efficiency. It comes with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine as standard, which delivers a robust 300 horsepower. If you’re seeking more power, there’s an available 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine that produces a whopping 400 horsepower. When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Explorer offers an impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
The 2025 Toyota Highlander is expected to be equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 265 horsepower, which is less than the standard engine of the Ford Explorer. This powertrain has an EPA-estimated max of 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. Overall, the Ford Explorer’s performance and power outshine the Toyota Highlander, making the Explorer a more compelling choice for those seeking a balance of power and efficiency.
Safety Features and Ratings
The 2025 Ford Explorer comes complete with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including various air bags, seatbelt pretensioners, and an ignition-disable device. It also includes Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+, which includes adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot information system, a lane-keeping system, and pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking.
The 2025 Toyota Highlander is also expected to include a range of safety features, such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and full-speed adaptive cruise control. However, despite the Highlander’s historically strong safety ratings, the inclusion of the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ gives the 2025 Ford Explorer an edge over the Highlander in terms of safety features and ratings.
Off-Road Capabilities and Terrain Management
When it comes to navigating tough, rugged terrain, the 2025 Ford Explorer leaves the Toyota Highlander in its dust. The Explorer’s optional intelligent four-wheel-drive system holds the road securely, beating the Highlander’s dynamic torque-vectoring all-wheel drive, for serious off-road trips.
The Explorer’s terrain management system includes six selectable drive modes, including Normal, Trail, Slippery, Sport, Tow/Haul, and Eco. With all these options available, you’ll be ready to handle many different landscapes, whether it’s city streets or muddy paths. Models with intelligent four-wheel drive also have the extra Deep Snow/Sand mode, perfect for those off-road adventures.
As the terrain morphs into a challenging obstacle course, clearance matters. The Explorer Platinum trim stands 8.2 inches high, while the Highlander only reaches 8.0 inches. For adventure enthusiasts, the Highlander Timberline trim is the best choice. It boasts increased ground clearance and robust all-terrain tires, instilling confidence on various trails. Overall, the Highlander may find it a challenge to keep up with the Explorer’s prowess on rough terrain.
Ready to experience Ford Explorer performance near Pottstown? Test drive a 2025 Ford Explorer today at John Kennedy Ford. We have AWD-equipped trims and premium features in stock!
Driving Experience and Handling
The 2025 Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander will offer you very different drives. The Explorer’s quick steering and steady control shine through, and the rear-wheel drive provides a sporty feel, particularly when taking corners.
If you’re looking for speed, the high-performance Ford Explorer ST trim may be a good option. With its optimized suspension and faster steering, you can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds — faster than most midsize family haulers. The sport-tuned suspension improves performance on any terrain.
In contrast, the Toyota Highlander focuses on comfort and employs a softer suspension that excels at smoothing out bumps and maintaining a quiet interior. While not as sporty as the new Explorer, it handles well and is easy to drive in cities. The XSE trim adds a sport-tuned suspension, but it can’t match the 2025 Ford Explorer ST.
Exterior Design and Styling
The 2025 Ford Explorer has a bold and commanding exterior design that sets it apart from its competitors. The SUV features unique grilles, wheels, redesigned headlamps and taillamps, as well as a power liftgate as a standard feature. Attention to detail is evident in the sleek LED headlamps that help illuminate the road and the redesigned LED taillamps that extend from the vehicle’s corners toward the liftgate.
Each model of the 2025 Explorer has a unique grille treatment. Some showcase a honeycomb design, while others feature a “wing” style. This variety allows the Explorer to cater to a wide range of aesthetic preferences, ensuring that you’ll arrive in style regardless of the model you choose.
The 2025 Toyota Highlander also boasts sleek and dynamic styling. It features LED headlights and a distinctive grille, which contribute to its presence on the road. However, the Highlander’s exterior design seems less varied and customizable when compared to the Explorer. While the Highlander has refined lines and shapes that enhance both aesthetics and fuel efficiency, the Ford Explorer’s unique grilles, redesigned lighting, and power liftgate offer a more distinctive and versatile look.
Experience the 2025 Ford Explorer at John Kennedy Ford of Pottstown
Still deciding between the 2025 Explorer and Highlander? Visit us at John Kennedy Ford Pottstown to get hands-on with the Explorer’s tech, space, and power. Our Ford experts will help match you with the best trim and financing for your needs.
At John Kennedy Ford of Pottstown, our dedicated team can help you find the perfect SUV for your lifestyle. When you step into our showroom, our attentive staff will be there to assist you every step of the way. Don’t miss the chance to explore the impressive 2025 Ford Explorer firsthand. Contact our sales team now to discover exclusive deals and financing options.
image from ford.com
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