Ford Explorer vs Toyota Highlander
The Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander are two of America's best-selling three-row SUVs, constantly cross-shopped by families who want space, comfort, and long-term value. The Explorer appeals with its muscular styling and optional turbocharged power, while the Highlander counters with legendary Toyota reliability and class-leading resale value. The difference in true 5-year cost can easily exceed $5,000 — making a careful comparison worth every minute.
The 2022 Toyota Highlander wins on true cost of ownership primarily due to significantly stronger resale value, lower maintenance and repair costs, and better fuel economy — offsetting its slightly higher purchase price over five years.
2022 Ford Explorer
- Lower starting used price by ~$1,000 gives an upfront edge
- Available twin-turbo 3.0L offers strong towing up to 5,600 lbs
- Well-equipped trims add value per dollar at used pricing
- Higher depreciation rate — loses roughly 55% of value over 5 years
- More frequent reported powertrain and transmission issues inflate repair costs
- Worse EPA fuel economy (avg 23 mpg combined) raises ongoing fuel spend
2022 Toyota Highlander
Winner- Industry-leading resale value — retains roughly 48% after 5 years
- Toyota reliability scores consistently reduce unplanned repair bills
- Better EPA fuel economy (avg 25 mpg combined) saves ~$900 over 5 years
- Slightly higher purchase price requires more cash or financing upfront
- 3.5L V6 non-hybrid has no electrified option in this trim year (base model)
- Interior materials and tech feel slightly dated vs Explorer's SYNC 4 system
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The verdict
Over five years, the 2022 Toyota Highlander costs approximately $3,120 less to own than the Ford Explorer despite its slightly higher sticker price, driven by superior resale value, better fuel economy, and lower repair frequency. The Explorer is not a bad choice — it genuinely wins on third-row space and towing — but shoppers prioritizing financial efficiency will find the Highlander the smarter long-term investment. If your family truly needs that extra rear legroom or tow rating, pay the Explorer premium knowingly; otherwise, the Highlander is the clearer value.
Ford Explorer: The 2022 Ford Explorer is best for buyers who prioritize third-row passenger space, higher towing capacity, and a more performance-oriented driving experience and can tolerate slightly higher long-term costs.
Toyota Highlander: The 2022 Toyota Highlander is best for buyers who want the lowest true cost of ownership, proven long-term reliability, and strong resale protection with a comfortable, well-rounded family SUV.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ford Explorer or Toyota Highlander more reliable?
The Toyota Highlander is consistently rated more reliable, earning above-average scores from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power while the Explorer has documented issues with its 10-speed transmission and electronic systems.
Which SUV has better resale value, the Explorer or Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander holds its value better, retaining roughly 48% after five years compared to the Explorer's 44–45%, which translates to $1,200–$1,500 more at trade-in or private sale.
Does the Toyota Highlander have more space than the Ford Explorer?
The Ford Explorer actually has more third-row legroom (34.9 inches vs 27.7 inches) and a slightly longer cargo area, making it the better choice for families who regularly seat passengers in the third row.
How much cheaper is the Highlander to insure than the Explorer?
Typical annual insurance for the 2022 Highlander runs about $1,900 vs $2,000 for the Explorer, a modest $100/year difference that compounds to roughly $500 saved over five years.
Should I buy a 2022 Ford Explorer or Toyota Highlander as a used vehicle?
For most buyers, the 2022 Highlander is the better used purchase due to lower ownership costs and stronger reliability, but if your family needs maximum third-row space or frequent towing above 5,000 lbs, the Explorer justifies its slightly higher total cost.