2026 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Grand Highlander: Which 3-Row SUV Is Better?
Ford Explorer or Toyota Grand Highlander
The 2026 Ford Explorer is an especially compelling choice over the Toyota Grand Highlander for drivers who prioritize stronger available performance, an available 400-horsepower V6, rear-wheel-drive-based SUV dynamics and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capability when properly equipped. Toyota's Grand Highlander has legitimate strengths, particularly passenger and cargo space and available hybrid powertrains, but the Explorer offers something Toyota does not directly match: the performance-focused Explorer ST.
That makes this comparison about more than which SUV has three rows. Buyers should consider how they drive, whether they tow, how much performance they want and whether maximum interior room or a more performance-oriented driving experience is the higher priority.
Comparison Disclaimer: Specifications, features, trims, powertrains, towing ratings and availability can vary by configuration and are subject to change. Toyota Grand Highlander specifications should be verified for the exact model year and configuration being considered. Contact All Star Ford Palestine for current 2026 Ford Explorer specifications and availability.
2026 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Grand Highlander at a Glance
| Comparison | 2026 Ford Explorer | Toyota Grand Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Three-row SUV | Three-row SUV |
| Base Ford Engine | 2.3L EcoBoost | Turbocharged gas engine available |
| Performance Engine | Available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | Available Hybrid MAX powertrain |
| Maximum Explorer Horsepower | 400 hp with available 3.0L EcoBoost | Varies by Toyota powertrain |
| Maximum Towing | Up to 5,000 lbs. when properly equipped | Up to 5,000 lbs. on applicable configurations |
| Performance Model | Explorer ST | No direct ST equivalent |
| Available AWD/4WD | Available Intelligent 4WD | Available AWD depending on configuration |
| Hybrid Available | No current Explorer hybrid | Yes |
Specification Disclaimer: Manufacturer specifications vary by trim, drivetrain and equipment. Maximum figures require the applicable configuration. Always verify current specifications for the exact vehicle before purchase.
Which SUV Has More Performance?
Performance is one of the strongest reasons to choose the 2026 Ford Explorer, particularly when comparing the available Explorer ST with conventional three-row SUVs.
The Explorer offers an available 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque in applicable configurations.
That gives shoppers an opportunity to choose a three-row family SUV with genuinely substantial performance rather than treating acceleration and driving dynamics as secondary considerations.
Toyota offers multiple Grand Highlander powertrain choices, including available electrified configurations. Those provide their own advantages, particularly for shoppers interested in hybrid technology.
But buyers who specifically want a performance-oriented three-row SUV should put the Explorer high on their test-drive list.
What Engine Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Have?
The 2026 Ford Explorer offers turbocharged EcoBoost power, with engine availability depending on trim.
The Explorer's engine choices include a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder and an available 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 on applicable performance-oriented models.
The 2.3-liter EcoBoost provides 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, giving the Explorer substantial standard performance for everyday driving.
For drivers who want considerably more power, the available 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
What Makes the Ford Explorer ST Different?
The Explorer ST is one of the biggest differentiators between the Ford Explorer and Toyota Grand Highlander because it gives performance-focused drivers a dedicated high-output version of a three-row SUV.
The available 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 produces 400 horsepower, giving the ST performance that goes beyond simply moving a family and its cargo.
This can be especially attractive for someone who needs three-row versatility but doesn't want the driving experience to feel purely utilitarian.
For drivers coming from a performance car or powerful SUV, the Explorer ST provides a way to gain family-oriented utility without giving up the appeal of substantial horsepower.
Ford Explorer ST vs. Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX
The Explorer ST and Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX represent two very different approaches to creating a more powerful three-row SUV.
Ford uses a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 in the Explorer ST, emphasizing strong gasoline performance and a sport-oriented Explorer experience.
Toyota's Hybrid MAX approach combines gasoline and electric power.
Neither approach is automatically right for every driver. Buyers interested primarily in electrification may find Toyota's hybrid strategy appealing.
Drivers who want a three-row SUV centered around a powerful twin-turbocharged V6 and an established performance trim should give the Explorer ST serious consideration.
How Much Can the 2026 Ford Explorer Tow?
The 2026 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
That makes the Explorer useful for compatible recreational equipment, including appropriately sized boats, utility trailers and campers.
Towing can be particularly important for Texas families who need their SUV to do more than transport passengers during the week.
An Explorer can serve as the daily family vehicle and still provide useful capability for weekends and vacations.
Towing Disclaimer: Maximum towing capability requires proper vehicle configuration and equipment. Passengers, cargo, accessories and trailer equipment affect available towing capacity. Always verify the specific vehicle's ratings and follow Ford towing requirements and owner's documentation. Never exceed applicable vehicle, axle, hitch or trailer ratings.
Can the Toyota Grand Highlander Tow 5,000 Pounds?
Applicable Toyota Grand Highlander configurations can also provide up to 5,000 pounds of maximum towing capability when properly equipped.
That means shoppers shouldn't choose between these SUVs based solely on the highest advertised towing number.
Instead, compare the exact configuration, powertrain and equipment you're considering.
For Ford shoppers, the combination of up to 5,000 pounds of towing with available 400-horsepower Explorer performance creates an appealing balance between family utility and capability.
Which SUV Is Better for a Family?
Both the Explorer and Grand Highlander can work well for families, but they emphasize different strengths.
The Toyota Grand Highlander deserves consideration for shoppers who put maximum passenger and cargo space near the top of their list.
The Explorer counters with three-row versatility combined with a more performance-oriented personality, especially in ST form.
For many buyers, the deciding factor won't be whether both SUVs can carry a family. They can. The better question is what else you expect the SUV to do.
If driving performance, towing and a powerful available V6 matter alongside three-row seating, the Explorer becomes particularly compelling.
Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Have Three Rows?
Yes. The 2026 Ford Explorer is a three-row SUV designed to combine passenger flexibility with cargo versatility.
That makes it useful for families who occasionally need additional seating but don't necessarily want to move into a full-size SUV such as the Ford Expedition.
The ability to adjust passenger and cargo space allows Explorer owners to configure the cabin differently depending on the trip.
A weekday school run, grocery trip and weekend road trip may all require different combinations of seating and cargo room.
Which SUV Has More Cargo Space?
The Toyota Grand Highlander's larger packaging is a legitimate Toyota advantage for shoppers whose top priority is maximizing passenger and cargo volume.
That's an important distinction to acknowledge because not every buyer has the same priorities.
A family routinely carrying adults in all three rows plus substantial luggage may place more value on maximum interior space.
Another buyer may prefer the Explorer's combination of three-row utility, available performance and towing capability.
The best way to evaluate this difference is to sit in all three rows and test the cargo area with the type of gear your family normally carries.
Which SUV Offers a Hybrid?
The Toyota Grand Highlander offers hybrid powertrain choices, while the current Ford Explorer lineup focuses on EcoBoost gasoline performance.
For shoppers specifically requiring a hybrid, Toyota has an advantage in this category.
Ford's strength is different. The Explorer gives buyers a 300-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost and available 400-horsepower 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6.
This illustrates why the best vehicle isn't determined by winning every category. The right SUV depends on which advantages matter most to the individual buyer.
Which SUV Is Better for Highway Driving?
The Ford Explorer can be an excellent choice for Texas drivers who regularly combine city driving with longer highway trips.
Drivers traveling from Palestine toward Tyler, Longview, Waco or Dallas may spend considerable time at highway speeds.
For those trips, power for merging and passing, passenger comfort, driver-assistance technology and cargo flexibility can all become important.
The Explorer's available 400-horsepower EcoBoost V6 gives performance-oriented shoppers particularly substantial power for a three-row SUV.
Ford Explorer for Palestine and East Texas Drivers
The Explorer's combination of three-row seating, available Intelligent 4WD, towing capability and EcoBoost performance can fit a wide range of East Texas driving needs.
A family in Palestine may use an Explorer for school, work and shopping throughout the week and then load passengers and gear for a longer trip on the weekend.
Drivers heading north toward Tyler or Longview may appreciate the Explorer's highway performance, while trips toward Waco and Dallas can make comfort and technology increasingly important.
For owners towing recreational equipment, the Explorer's available 5,000-pound maximum towing capability when properly equipped adds another layer of versatility.
Which SUV Is More Fun to Drive?
Drivers who place a high value on performance should pay particular attention to the Explorer, especially the 400-horsepower Explorer ST.
Three-row SUVs are often purchased because they are practical. Ford demonstrates that practicality doesn't have to be their only defining characteristic.
The Explorer's rear-wheel-drive-based architecture and available performance-oriented configurations give Ford an opportunity to appeal to drivers who care about how their family SUV feels from behind the wheel.
Should You Buy an Explorer Instead of a Grand Highlander?
Choose the 2026 Ford Explorer if available 400-horsepower performance, EcoBoost power, towing capability and a more performance-focused three-row SUV experience rank high among your priorities.
Choose based on your actual needs rather than assuming every three-row SUV buyer wants the same thing.
The Toyota Grand Highlander has meaningful strengths. Its larger interior packaging and available hybrid powertrains can make it a strong option for buyers prioritizing maximum space or electrification.
But Ford gives Explorer buyers compelling advantages of its own:
- 300-horsepower 2.3L EcoBoost engine
- Available 400-horsepower 3.0L EcoBoost V6
- 415 lb-ft of torque with the available 3.0L EcoBoost
- Performance-focused Explorer ST
- Three-row passenger versatility
- Available Intelligent 4WD
- Up to 5,000 pounds of towing when properly equipped
- Modern Ford connectivity and driver-assistance technology
For shoppers who want their three-row SUV to deliver family versatility without making performance an afterthought, the 2026 Ford Explorer deserves to be near the top of the list.
Which 2026 Ford Explorer Should You Consider?
The best Explorer depends on whether you prioritize value, styling, luxury or maximum performance.
For many buyers, a 2.3-liter EcoBoost Explorer provides more than enough everyday power while maintaining the three-row versatility that makes the model useful.
Drivers wanting additional features and premium equipment can move further up the Explorer lineup.
Performance-focused shoppers should pay particular attention to models equipped with the 400-horsepower 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6, especially the Explorer ST.
Shop 2026 Ford Explorer SUVs at All Star Ford Palestine
All Star Ford Palestine helps East Texas SUV shoppers compare Ford Explorer models, powertrains, equipment and available features. Located in Palestine, Texas, the dealership serves drivers throughout the region, including customers traveling from Tyler, Longview, Waco and the Dallas area.
Shop new Ford SUVs at All Star Ford Palestine to explore current Ford Explorer and other new Ford availability.
When you've found the Explorer that fits your family, explore financing resources at All Star Ford Palestine and learn about available purchase options for qualifying customers.
Before choosing your next Ford SUV, review current new Ford specials at All Star Ford Palestine for available offers on qualifying vehicles.
2026 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Grand Highlander FAQs
Which is better, the Ford Explorer or Toyota Grand Highlander?
The better SUV depends on your priorities. The Explorer is particularly compelling for shoppers who prioritize available 400-horsepower performance, towing capability and a performance-focused ST model. The Grand Highlander deserves consideration when maximum interior space or an available hybrid powertrain is a higher priority.
How much horsepower does the 2026 Ford Explorer have?
The 2.3-liter EcoBoost produces 300 horsepower, while the available 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 produces 400 horsepower in applicable configurations.
How much horsepower does the Ford Explorer ST have?
The Explorer ST's 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
Can the 2026 Ford Explorer tow 5,000 pounds?
Yes. The 2026 Ford Explorer offers up to 5,000 pounds of maximum towing capability when properly equipped. Actual capacity depends on the vehicle, passengers, cargo and equipment.
Does the Ford Explorer have three rows?
Yes. The Ford Explorer is a three-row SUV designed to provide flexible passenger seating and cargo capability.
Does the Toyota Grand Highlander have a hybrid?
Yes. Toyota offers hybrid powertrain choices for the Grand Highlander, including an available Hybrid MAX configuration. Availability and specifications should be verified for the exact model being considered.
Does the 2026 Ford Explorer offer four-wheel drive?
The Explorer offers available Intelligent 4WD on applicable configurations, giving buyers an alternative to rear-wheel-drive models.
Is the Explorer ST faster than a regular Explorer?
The Explorer ST uses the available 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 producing 400 horsepower, compared with 300 horsepower from the 2.3-liter EcoBoost used in applicable Explorer configurations. Performance varies according to configuration and conditions.
Where can I shop for a Ford Explorer near Tyler, Texas?
Drivers can visit All Star Ford Palestine in Palestine, Texas, to explore current Ford Explorer availability. The dealership serves customers from Palestine and throughout East Texas, including shoppers traveling from the Tyler area.
Vehicle Information Disclaimer: Ford and Toyota specifications, powertrains, features, horsepower, torque, towing capability, fuel economy, seating, technology and availability referenced in this article are subject to change and can vary by trim and configuration. Maximum towing requires proper equipment and vehicle configuration. Driver-assistance systems are supplemental and do not replace attentive driving. Contact All Star Ford Palestine for current 2026 Ford Explorer specifications, inventory, pricing and incentives, and consult Toyota for current Grand Highlander specifications.