The 2022 Ford Explorer Just Outranked the Toyota 4Runner
Upset alert! The Ford Explorer just outranked the Toyota 4Runner. This seems like a massive achievement for the 2022 Ford Explorer, but is it really better than the 2022 Toyota 4Runner? Let’s see how these popular SUVs compare.
2022 Ford Explorer vs. 2022 Toyota 4Runner
According to Car and Driver, The 2022 Ford Explorer ranks higher than the 2022 Toyota 4Runner on their list of the best mid-size SUVs for 2022. The list contains 15 options, and unfortunately, the 4Runner is in last place.
The Ford Explorer ranks in 8th place and defeated rivals such as the Honda Pilot, Volkswagen Atlas, and Subaru Ascent for its spot. It also left the 4runner in the dust! However, the Explorer is outranked by Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride, which can’t be caught.
But our focus is on the Explorer and 4Runner today because these are iconic options that have been around for years. The Explorer first came out in 1991, while the Toyota 4Runner came out in 1985. This is a battle between classic options!
Why does the Explorer rank ahead of the 4Runner?
The 2022 Ford Explorer ranks highly because it’s a smooth-riding three-row SUV with plenty of power options. The 2.3-liter inline-four engine with 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque is standard.
You can upgrade to the 3.0-liter V6 engine with 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. Plus, a hybrid option is available. The powertrains are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Ford Explorer Hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg on the highway.
But the Explorer fell short compared to rivals due to lacking value. You can get more features and a nicer interior for less with other SUVs.
The 2022 Toyota 4Runner is last because it’s getting difficult to hide its age. The 4Runner hasn’t had a significant update in 12 years, making it feel dated compared to new options like the Kia Telluride.
With the 4Runner, you get a 4.0-liter V6 engine with 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a five-speed automatic transmission.
You can’t deny the fact that it’s a reliable engine, but it’s also thirsty. The 4Runner gets an EPA-estimated 16 mpg in the city and up to 19 mpg on the highway.
Plus, it has a body-on-frame chassis, which is excellent for off-roading at the expense of its ride quality. The 4runner can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.7 seconds, and the Explorer reaches 60 mph in about 5.6 seconds.
Does the 2022 Explorer or 2022 4Runner have better features?
You can get started in a 2022 Ford Explorer for about $33,745, while the 2022 Toyota 4Runner begins at about $38,105. That’s a $4,360 price difference between their MSRPs.
The Explorer comes with a standard 8-inch touchscreen, but you can upgrade to a 10.1-inch vertically oriented unit. The 4Runner has an 8-inch infotainment system. Both SUVs have standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Both SUVs offer built-in navigation and upgraded stereo systems. However, the Explorer also offers a rear-seat entertainment system.
Also, both SUVs have standard forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance.
The 4Runner provides standard adaptive cruise control, and the Explorer comes with standard blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross traffic alert.
It seems like the Explorer ranks ahead of the 4Runner because it has a smoother ride, more engine options, and a better fuel economy. But the 4Runner has a higher reliability ranking and more off-roading capabilities.
