Ford Explorer vs Toyota Highlander in Berwick, PA

2026 Ford Explorer vs. 2026 Toyota Highlander in Berwick, PA

Families throughout Berwick, Hazleton, Bloomsburg, Mountain Top, Benton, Wilkes-Barre, Sunbury, and Danville, PA often compare the 2026 Ford Explorer and the 2026 Toyota Highlander when shopping for a three-row SUV. While both models offer spacious interiors and modern technology, the 2026 Ford Explorer stands out with stronger available performance, greater trim variety, advanced driver-assistance features, and more versatility for everyday life. Whether you're commuting, road-tripping, or hauling gear for family adventures, the Explorer delivers advantages that make it a compelling choice.

2026 Ford Explorer

2026 Toyota Highlander

Performance and Capability

One of the biggest differences between the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander is performance. The Explorer offers two powerful engine options, giving drivers more flexibility based on their needs.

  • Standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque
  • Available 3.0-liter EcoBoost® V6 generating 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque
  • Standard 10-speed automatic transmission
  • Available rear-wheel drive (RWD) and intelligent four-wheel drive
  • Explorer Tremor model with enhanced off-road capability

By comparison, every 2026 Toyota Highlander is powered by a single 265-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. While capable, it cannot match the available power offered by the Explorer ST, Platinum, and Tremor models.

Drivers in Mountain Top and Benton seeking stronger acceleration, greater towing confidence, and enhanced driving dynamics will appreciate the Explorer's performance-focused engineering.

Interior Space and Everyday Comfort

The Ford Explorer is designed to accommodate growing families while maintaining flexibility for cargo and passengers. Multiple seating configurations and trim levels allow buyers to choose the layout that best fits their lifestyle.

  • Available seating for up to seven passengers
  • Three-zone automatic climate control
  • Available heated and ventilated front seats
  • Available heated second-row seating
  • Available power-folding third-row seats
  • Available massaging front seats

While the Toyota Highlander offers comfortable accommodations, its third row is often best suited for children, and the cargo space behind the third row can be limited. The Explorer provides a more versatile interior for families traveling throughout Wilkes-Barre, Sunbury, and Danville.

Technology Comparison

The 2026 Ford Explorer delivers a more advanced technology experience with larger displays and innovative connectivity features.

  • Standard 13.2-inch touchscreen
  • Google Built-In navigation and voice controls
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Autoâ„¢
  • Available 14-speaker B&O® premium sound system
  • Available wireless charging
  • Available digital instrument cluster

The 2026 Toyota Highlander starts with an 8-inch touchscreen and offers a larger display on upper trims. While it includes useful technology, the Explorer offers a more modern, intuitive user experience across much of the lineup.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Both SUVs prioritize safety, but the Explorer offers several advanced features that help it stand apart.

  • Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+
  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Lane Centering
  • Blind Spot Information System
  • Intersection Collision Mitigation
  • Evasive Steering Assist
  • Available 360-Degree Camera
  • Available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving technology

While the Highlander offers a strong collection of driver-assistance technologies, BlueCruise gives the Explorer a significant advantage for long-distance travel throughout Pennsylvania.

Trim Level Variety

Ford offers a wider range of Explorer trims to suit different lifestyles and budgets.

  • Active 100A
  • Active
  • ST-Line
  • Tremor
  • ST
  • Platinum

The Toyota Highlander is available in four trims:

  • XLE
  • XSE
  • Limited
  • Platinum

The addition of the new Explorer Tremor provides an option for buyers who want greater off-road capability without stepping up to a dedicated truck or a larger SUV.

Why Choose the 2026 Ford Explorer?

For drivers near Berwick, PA, the 2026 Ford Explorer offers several key advantages over the 2026 Toyota Highlander:

  • More powerful available engine options
  • Available 400-horsepower EcoBoost® V6
  • Larger standard touchscreen display
  • Available BlueCruise hands-free driving technology
  • Greater trim variety
  • New Explorer Tremor off-road model
  • Flexible seating and cargo configurations
  • Premium comfort and technology features

Whether you're commuting through Bloomsburg, taking family road trips from Hazleton, or running errands around Wilkes-Barre, the 2026 Ford Explorer delivers the capability, technology, comfort, and versatility that many Pennsylvania families are looking for. Visit Ken Pollock Ford today to explore the current Explorer inventory and discover which model is right for you.

Compare the Explorer

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  1. Ken Pollock Ford

    1120 West Front Street
    Berwick, PA 18603

    • Sales: 570-752-2797
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