Toyota Grand Highlander vs Ford Explorer: Which SUV Fits Ohio Families Best?

When it comes to spacious family SUVs that can handle Ohio's changing seasons and road conditions, the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander and Ford Explorer often top the list. Whether you're carpooling through Sandusky or planning weekend trips to Lake Erie, choosing the right SUV can make a big difference in your family's comfort, fuel costs, and long-term reliability.

At Firelands Toyota Sandusky, we regularly compare top SUVs to help Ohio families make smart, lasting decisions. Here's our expert breakdown of the Toyota Grand Highlander vs. the Ford Explorer to help you choose the best fit for your lifestyle.

1. Interior Space and Comfort: Grand Highlander Wins for Families

The Grand Highlander lives up to its name by delivering more interior space than the standard Highlander and noticeably more than the Ford Explorer.

• Passenger space: The Grand Highlander offers roomy third-row seating, even for adults. The Explorer’s third row is more suitable for children only.
• Cargo space: Toyota gives you nearly 98 cubic feet of total cargo room, ideal for sports gear, groceries, or weekend luggage. The Explorer lags slightly behind in usable cargo volume.
• Interior quality: Both SUVs offer soft-touch surfaces and premium trims, but the Grand Highlander’s cabin feels more upscale and refined, especially at higher trims.

 

Families looking for an SUV with room to grow and comfort during Ohio winters and road trips will appreciate the Grand Highlander’s space advantage.

2. Technology and Safety Features: Toyota Comes Out Ahead

Tech-savvy families will find that Toyota delivers more standard features across all trims.

• Standard infotainment: Grand Highlander includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen standard, compared to the Explorer’s smaller screen on base trims.
• Toyota Safety Sense 3.0: Includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. While Ford offers Co-Pilot360, many advanced features are locked behind higher trims.

 

Want to see how Toyota models compare in more detail? Explore this Highlander vs Explorer comparison from our team at Firelands Toyota.

3. Performance and Fuel Efficiency: Hybrid Options Matter

One of Toyota's biggest advantages? Hybrid availability.

• Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid: Offers up to 36 MPG in city driving—a game-changer for commuting parents or long road trips.
• Ford Explorer: The hybrid model is available, but harder to find and offers less impressive MPG ratings.

 

Toyota’s hybrid systems are proven for longevity and fuel savings. Families looking to cut fuel costs across Ohio commutes and errands will appreciate the value in our hybrid lineup.

4. Driving in Ohio Conditions: Which SUV Handles Better?

From snowy roads to rural highways, Ohio demands versatile handling and traction.

• AWD options: Both SUVs offer all-wheel drive, but Toyota’s AWD-i system is praised for its responsiveness.
• Ride quality: The Grand Highlander offers a smooth, sedan-like ride even when fully loaded. Explorer leans sportier, but some users report firmer suspension.

 

Planning a test drive? Visit Firelands Toyota in Sandusky to experience both standard and AWD versions in person.

5. Reliability and Resale Value: Toyota's Proven Track Record

Toyota consistently ranks at the top for long-term durability, which matters when choosing a vehicle your family will rely on for years.

• Resale value: According to Kelley Blue Book, Toyota SUVs hold value better than Ford.
• Maintenance costs: Toyota's average repair costs tend to be lower, and parts are more accessible.

 

Looking for peace of mind? Explore our Firelands Toyota reviews to see why Ohio families trust us year after year.

6. Price and Value: Competitive Starting Points, Long-Term Savings

The Ford Explorer may offer slightly lower entry pricing, but when you factor in Toyota’s fuel economy, resale value, and included tech, the Grand Highlander often becomes the better long-term investment.

Additionally, Firelands Toyota regularly updates its bargain inventory, which can help budget-conscious buyers get into a quality SUV.

Final Verdict: Toyota Grand Highlander Suits Ohio Families Best

While both the Grand Highlander and Ford Explorer are capable, the Grand Highlander delivers:

• More space for passengers and cargo
• Better fuel economy (especially with hybrid options)
• More standard safety and tech features
• Higher reliability and long-term value

 

Families across Ohio—from Sandusky to Norwalk and beyond—choose the Toyota Grand Highlander because it checks every box for comfort, cost, and confidence.

Explore Toyota SUV inventory or rent a Toyota for a weekend to test real-world fit. Firelands Toyota Sandusky is here to help you make the smart choice for your family’s future.