Parks Ford of Gainesville

2023 Ford Explorer vs. 2023 Toyota Highlander | Gainesville FL

2023 Ford Explorer

vs 2023 Toyota Highlander in Gainesville, FL

Rediscover the joy of driving in the new 2023 Ford Explorer. Whether you’re ready to hit the open road or explore the great outdoors, the Ford Explorer is sure to exceed all your expectations. This SUV can accommodate the entire family and their luggage with its generous seating capacity of up to eight passengers. The available PowerFold® third-row seat quickly folds away to reveal 47.9 cubic feet of cargo capacity, and you can fold the second row of seats as well to create a spacious 87.8 cubic feet of storage. Whether you're carrying boxes, camping equipment or anything else life throws your way, the Ford Explorer is ready for it all. Plus, this SUV provides unbeatable comfort and cargo capacity, with its leather-trimmed seating, standard tri-zone electronic automatic temperature control and available ambient lighting. You'll get an even better view of the skies above through the available twin-panel moonroof,  which lets  in the fresh air as you journey along. And with numerous other features, the new 2023 Ford Explorer makes driving an experience you'll never want to end. Enjoy a level of convenience and comfort that no other SUV can match.

When researching the perfect SUV for your family, you may have come across the new 2023 Toyota Highlander. Now, let's compare it to the new 2023 Ford Explorer and see which one offers the best features.

2023 Ford Explorer
2023 Ford Explorer
2023 Toyota Highlander

Maximum Towing Capacity

5,600 pounds1

5,000 pounds2

Available as a Hybrid

Available Second-Row Captain’s
Chairs

10-Speed Automatic Transmission

Battery Saver

SOS Post-Crash Alert System™

Available Audio Speakers

14

11

When put to the test in a head-to-head matchup, it's clear that the new 2023 Ford Explorer outperforms the new 2023 Toyota Highlander. The Ford Explorer has a towing capacity of up to 5,600 pounds, while the Toyota Highlander can only tow up to 5,000 pounds.1,2 For those who plan on performing heavy-duty tasks such as towing with their SUV, the Explorer is certainly the more capable option between these two vehicles. For those who are looking to save money on fuel costs as well as promote sustainability, both the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander offer hybrid models. Additionally, each vehicle includes optional second-row captain's chairs for enhanced passenger comfort. The Ford Explorer has the upper hand in terms of features, outpacing the Toyota Highlander in a variety of areas. The Ford Explorer offers an advantage over the Toyota Highlander, as the former offers a standard 10-speed automatic transmission for smoother shifting and a standard battery saver feature, which automatically turns off interior lights if left on to prevent returning to a dead battery. In terms of safety, the Ford Explorer is the clear winner: It features a standard SOS Post-Crash Alert System™ that activates the horn and flashes the lights in the event that airbags are deployed. Finally, if you’re looking for a high-end audio experience from your SUV, the new 2023 Ford Explorer is equipped with 14 speakers for unparalleled sound quality, while the new 2023 Toyota Highlander only offers a maximum of 11 speakers.

Don't accept anything less than the best when you're looking for an SUV. Choose the new 2023 Ford Explorer and experience all it has to offer. Visit us today to take a test drive and see what this vehicle can do for you.

If you’re interested in becoming the proud owner of a 2023 Ford Explorer, give us a call, or stop by our dealership at 3333 North Main St., Gainesville, FL 32609 for a test drive today. We look forward to serving our customers from Alachua, Starke, Ocala and Lake City.

1When properly equipped. Max towing varies based on cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories and number of passengers.

2Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner’s Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. “Added vehicle equipment” includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle’s exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. [Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.] See Owner’s Manual for limitations.