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When you’re looking for your next SUV in Birmingham, AL, you need it to have an updated interior and plenty of room for your family. Let’s compare the 2023 Toyota Highlander and the Ford Explorer to see which midsize SUV will stand out. Both of these vehicles have appealing features, so deciding on which one is right for you can be difficult, so let’s compare them and find out.
The Highlander has a host of updates to the 2023 model which includes the standard engine being replaced with a new turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. The SUV also has a new 12.3-inch infotainment display available, and for the Limited or Platinum Trims, there is now a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Updates to the upper trim levels include folding exterior mirrors, and the XLE and XSE trims have the addition of a hands-free power-operated rear liftgate.
The Explorer’s 2023 model doesn’t have any updates to the technology, capability, and performance, but it did add a new exterior paint color to its mix.
The Highlander has a welcoming, upscale dashboard with fresh tech features. There is plenty of head and leg room in the Highlander’s first and second rows and the third row is perfect for children. The Highlander can seat up to eight people depending on its configuration. A 7-inch digital instrument and 8-inch touchscreen come standard in the SUV, but it does have the option for a 12.3-inch touchscreen. Also, the technology features are responsive and easy to use.
The Explorer has an unimpressive interior that does nothing to improve the experience. The plastic interior features mediocre designs and unsightly gaps. Critics even called the SUV ugly with its poorly designed touchscreen display slapped on the dash. While there is a good amount of headroom, it’s the result of low-mounted seats. Also, the available 10.1-inch touchscreen doesn’t improve functionality and is not as intuitive as critics would like.
The Highlander offers a smooth ride with its direct steering and its new turbo-charged engine helps the SUV get quickly off the line. It provides more than enough power when scooting around town and completing daily tasks. The SUV also achieves 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Highlander handles well and has quick steering, and when taking turns it feels firmly planted on the pavement. You also won’t have to stress when merging onto the highway or passing other vehicles with its peppy acceleration.
Critics found that the shifting on the Explorer was indecisive, and didn’t offer as good fuel economy as the Highlander. The Explorer also falls short when it comes to the steering not responding quickly and has a suspension that is too springy.
If the 2023 Toyota Highlander sounds like the midsize SUV for you, then you can come to check it out at our Toyota dealership in Birmingham, AL. Come see us at Limbaugh Toyota, and ask us about test-driving the Highlander. While you’re on our lot check out our new vehicle inventory. We’re conveniently located at 2200 Avenue T, Birmingham, AL 35128. We can’t wait to help you find your next vehicle.
