2024 Ford explorer vs 2020 Toyota highlander
Reliability Side-by-Side
2024
Ford explorer
Grade B-
A powerful and spacious family SUV, but its powertrain and electrical systems demand a vigilant ownership approach.
2020
Toyota highlander
Grade A-
A supremely reliable family SUV with bulletproof mechanicals, though early models might require a software update or fuel pump replacement.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2020 Toyota highlander
Score 89/100 vs 78/100
Best for Lowest Risk
2020 Toyota highlander
low risk
Best for Lowest Annual Upkeep
2020 Toyota highlander
$400-600
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2024 Ford explorer | 2020 Toyota highlander★ |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $500-700 | $400-600 |
| Moderate Repairs | $600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., transmission software/valve body, PTU seal, electrical module) | $500-1,500 occasionally |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 21 / 28 | 21 / 29 |
| MSRP (New) | $36,860 | $34,600 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2024 Ford explorer
10-Speed Automatic Transmission
30,000-70,000 mi
Electrical System & Infotainment
5,000-40,000 mi
Power Transfer Unit (PTU) (AWD models)
60,000-100,000 mi
2020 Toyota highlander
Fuel System
Any mileage, typically identified early mi
Infotainment System
5,000-30,000 mi
Braking System
25,000-50,000 mi
Get the Full Report on Each
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Editorial Take
Comparing a brand-new 2024 Ford Explorer to a three-year-old 2020 Toyota Highlander offers a unique perspective on evolving automotive priorities and the value proposition of new versus used vehicles. These three-row midsize SUVs are perennial family favorites, often cross-shopped by buyers seeking a versatile vehicle for daily commutes, school runs, and road trips. Key decision factors revolve around budget, the desire for the latest technology and warranty protection of a new vehicle, or the proven reliability and cost savings of a slightly older, well-regarded model. Buyers prioritizing cutting-edge features and maximum power might lean towards the Explorer, while those who value long-term dependability and established fuel efficiency will often consider the Highlander. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2024 Ford Explorer: 1. Transmission Issues (Carryover Concern): While the 2024 model benefits from refinements, earlier model years of the sixth-generation Explorer (2020-2022) experienced some reports of rough or clunky shifts from the 10-speed automatic transmission, particularly at lower speeds or during downshifts. This was often addressed via software updates but remains a point of observation for the platform. 2. Infotainment System Glitches (Previous Years): Earlier iterations of Ford's SYNC 4 system on the Explorer have occasionally been reported to freeze or respond slowly, requiring a restart. While the 2024 model features updated software, it's something to monitor on newer Ford systems. 2020 Toyota Highlander: 1. Infotainment System Freeze/Lag: Some owners of the 2020 Highlander reported occasional freezing or lagging of the infotainment system, particularly the touchscreen display. This typically involved the system becoming unresponsive for a short period or requiring a vehicle restart to resolve, though not a widespread or severe mechanical issue. 2. Wind Noise: A minority of owners noted higher-than-expected wind noise at highway speeds, particularly around the A-pillars or side mirrors. This varied from vehicle to vehicle and was generally considered a minor annoyance rather than a significant defect.
Value & Cost of Ownership
The 2024 Ford Explorer, being a brand-new vehicle, commands its full MSRP, starting around $36,860 and climbing significantly with options and higher trims. It comes with a full factory warranty (3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper, 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain). Insurance costs for a new Explorer are typically moderate for its class. Maintenance costs are generally in line with other domestic SUVs, with parts widely available. Resale value for Ford SUVs has improved, but historically, it does not match Toyota's class-leading retention rates. The 2020 Toyota Highlander, as a used vehicle, offers significant cost savings on the initial purchase. Depending on mileage, condition, and trim, a 2020 Highlander can typically be found for $28,000 to $40,000 in today's market, representing a substantial discount from its original MSRP. Insurance costs are also moderate for a family SUV. Maintenance costs are generally very reasonable, thanks to Toyota's reputation for reliability and readily available, affordable parts. Toyota vehicles, and the Highlander in particular, are renowned for their exceptional resale value, often retaining a higher percentage of their original price over time compared to many competitors.
Editorial Verdict
Best for families: The 2020 Toyota Highlander. Its proven reliability, comfortable ride, slightly better standard third-row access, and the availability of a highly fuel-efficient hybrid model make it a supremely practical and economical choice for family duty. Best for commuters: The 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Its exceptional fuel economy of 36 city / 35 highway MPG is unmatched by any Explorer variant, leading to significant long-term savings for daily commutes. The V6 Highlander is also a smooth and comfortable commuter. Best for enthusiasts: The 2024 Ford Explorer ST. With its 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6 and sport-tuned suspension, the Explorer ST offers exhilarating acceleration and more engaging driving dynamics than the Highlander could ever hope to provide. Best value overall: The 2020 Toyota Highlander. Given its strong reliability record, lower used purchase price, excellent fuel economy options (especially the hybrid), lower depreciation, and reasonable maintenance costs, the 2020 Highlander represents a superior overall value proposition for most buyers seeking a dependable family SUV. While the 2024 Explorer offers new technology and a factory warranty, the Highlander provides a compelling package of practicality and long-term savings.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2024 Ford explorer
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