Comparison - Ford Explorer Sport 2017 - vs - Toyota 4Runner SR5 Premium 2016

General

Other Names:

Also called:

--

Also called:

Toyota Hilux Surf

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Make: 
Average Price: 
45,355
Updated: 
30 Nov 2016
38,857
Updated: 
02 Dec 2016
Car Type: 
SUV
SUV
Drive Type: 
All Wheel Drive
Rear Wheel Drive
Year: 
2017
2016
Total Seating: 
7
5
Transmission: 
6-speed Shiftable Automatic
5-speed Shiftable Automatic
Bluetooth: 
yes
yes
Heated seats: 
no
yes
Navigation: 
yes
yes
Doors: 
5
5
Fuel Tank Capacity: 
18.60gals
23.00gals
Exterior Colors: 
Color: 
Blue Jeans Metallic
#486478
Ingot Silver Metallic
#C4C4C8
Oxford White
#E4E4E4
Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
#8E1C26
Shadow Black
#242424
Color: 
Barcelona Red Metallic
#68070E
Classic Silver Metallic
#8E8E8E
Magnetic Gray Metallic
#38373C
Midnight Black Metallic
#03020C
Nautical Blue Metallic
#464A50
Super White
#DADADA

Expert Reviews

Expert reviews: 

Available with plenty of features and three distinctly different engines, the 2017 Ford Explorer has a lot to offer if you're shopping for a three-row crossover SUV. Its outstanding quietness and quality cabin trimmings elevate this practical do-all crossover to the front of the segment.

A household name among American carbuyers, the Ford Explorer has evolved from its long-ago roots as a body-on-frame SUV into the comprehensively modern three-row crossover it is today. Depending on trim level and options (and how deep your pockets are), it can be downright luxurious. Our preference for the Sport arises from the "drives big" nature of other non-Sport trim levels — though comfortable, the soft suspension and numb steering of non-Sport models make their driving experience oddly ponderous.

Aside from that, though, there is an awful lot to credit to the Explorer. You can configure an Explorer that keeps things relatively basic, or you can go all-in on luxury. Versatility is a strong suit, too. You have your choice of three engines. You can get it with a second-row bench or captain's chairs and option the second and/or third row with power-folding functionality. Lots of cargo space is standard.

Pros
Plenty of high-tech features that are easy to use
Optional turbocharged V6 engine delivers plentiful power
Cabin is quiet and comfortable on the highway
Cargo space is generous behind the third row

Cons
Depending on trim level, feels big and ponderous from behind the wheel
Legroom in the second and third rows is subpar

By: 
edmunds.com

The 2017 Ford Explorer adds a sport appearance package and Sync 3, both of which are important to today's SUV buyers.

The 2017 Ford Explorer gets a sport appearance package on lower trims, which is what Explorer buyers are looking for nowadays.

The Ford Explorer's wide offering of powertrains is an asset, we like every step along the way.

The Explorer has a good mix of comfortable seating, versatility, and space for families.

The Explorer scores well on federal tests, but IIHS tests are a different story.

A Sport Appearance Package is here now for buyers who want their 2017 Ford Explorers to look the part.

The 2017 Ford Explorer returns decent economy for a three-row hauler—mostly.

Pros
A nicely executed do-it-all
Excellent ride and handling for an SUV
Fuel-efficient—on paper
Sync 3 is better ...
Sport appearance package is much appreciated

Cons
but Sync 3 still has issues
Real-world mileage question
Platinum prices are in line with luxury vehicles

By: 
thecarconnection.com

The 2017 Ford Explorer will feature a new XLT Sport Appearance package, as well as interior enhancements. A hands-free liftgate will be standard on Sport models, while Sync 3 will be offered on the XLT and come standard on the Limited, Sport, and Platinum models.

The 2017 Ford Explorer SUV offers three-row seating, can hold up to seven passengers, and is offered in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.

The 2017 Ford Explorer comes standard with LED low-beam headlights on every trim.

The Ford Explorer was refreshed for 2016, sporting a new look and upgrades to the engine and feature content. The 2017 Explorer doesn’t change much, but adds a new sport package to the XLT trim, as well as additional safety features.

Pros
New XLT Sport Appearance package
Well-appointed Platinum trim

Cons
Cramped third-row seating
Slow acceleration on lower trim models

By: 
motortrend.com

With the exception of a new Sport Appearance package for the XLT trim, the 2017 Ford Explorer SUV carries over unchanged.

When it comes to horsepower, Ford’s 7-passenger Explorer SUV for 2017 delivers at every level. From the standard 290-horsepower V6 to the fuel-efficient 280-horsepower turbo 4-cylinder available in the base,...

XLT and Limited trims, Ford places choice front and center. Need more “oomph”? Try out the Sport and Platinum trim’s 365-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6. Capable for sure, the Explorer delivers excellent passing and pulling power and its heavily weighted steering and taut suspension give this big SUV impressive cornering ability, although its high beltline and massive front bumper make maneuvers in tight quarters a bit harrowing. Ford has done an excellent job keeping road, engine and wind noise out of the cabin, and all but the rearmost occupants felt the seating was both comfortable and supportive. The Explorer’s adaptive cruise control works well, but we wish it offered fully autonomous braking like the Honda Pilot, not just collision warning.

Pros
If you’re looking for a family SUV with advanced electronics and safety features, plus a wide range of engines and option choices, Ford’s midsize SUV for 2017 is hard to beat. The Explorer’s advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) system makes it more off-road capable than a Honda Pilot or Mazda CX-9.

Cons
If you’re looking for something that’s easy to maneuver and park, and you don’t need a 3rd-row seat, a smaller SUV like the Ford Edge, Nissan Murano or Jeep Grand Cherokee makes a better choice. The Jeep also bests the Explorer both off-road and in towing (7,800 pounds vs. 5,000).

By: 
kbb.com

The 2017 Toyota 4Runner ranking is based on its score within the Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Toyota 4Runner has a score of 7.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 49 pieces of research and data elements using various sources

It offers all the hardware necessary for rock crawling on the weekend, and on the weekdays it can seat up to seven or pack away a tremendous amount of cargo. It’s also a high scorer when it comes to predicted reliability. That said, this SUV is a lot friendlier off-road than on. You’ll find that rivals like the Jeep Grand Cherokee offer a better mix of on-road comfort and all-terrain performance. Alternatively, models like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander are much more practical – and affordable – options for cruising suburbia

Since the 4Runner doesn’t offer many high-tech convenience features, you can largely ignore the pricey 4Runner Limited

Pros
Impressive off-road capability
Great overall cargo space

Cons
Firm ride
Poor fuel economy
Cramped third-row seats
So-so interior materials and features

By: 
cars.usnews.com

The Toyota 4Runner is known for being true to its roots. It's one of the last remaining old-school SUVs, which is to say it's still a truck. It has not crossed over to being a tall car. Its body is bolted to its rugged chassis, like they used to do, back when SUVs were tough and before they were gentrified. If you want one of those, buy a Toyota Highlander. If you intend to go off road, get the 4Runner

The 4Runner is comfortable for long trips, with a reasonably smooth ride and very little road noise, although the cabin doesn't quite match the refinement of the Ford Explorer or Dodge Durango. And its narrower body and taller floor steal some cargo space, compared to those models that aren't body-on-frame.

The 4Runner is comfortable for long trips, with a reasonably smooth ride and very little road noise, although the cabin doesn't quite match the refinement of the Ford Explorer or Dodge Durango.And its narrower body and taller floor steal some cargo space, compared to those models that aren't body-on-frame

If you need a new full-sized SUV and don't want no namby-pamby crossover, the 4Runner is the hot setup in this price range.

By: 
autoblog.com

With the 2016 Toyota 4Runner, you'll trade off a little refinement and on the road finesse for true SUV capability, off-road prowess, and unparalleled style

The 4Runner has a certain Tonka-truck charm, with its squared-off corners and remarkably straight surfaces, by today's standards

The Toyota 4Runner isn't as uncomfortable on-pavement as it used to be; yet it's kept all the off-road prowess

The 4Runner has a surprisingly quiet ride, and its cabin is good for four adults.

The 2016 4Runner earns respectable ratings, though small-overlap test results bring down its GPA.

ust as it should, the Toyota 4Runner puts the focus on off-road gear and useful hardware.

Gas mileage isn't exactly the focus here—and if it is, you shouldn't be considering the 4Runner.

The 4Runner is authentic, and that's part of what makes its rugged style work so well. It's not just an image conjured up for marketing purposes; this truck family has had the same basic wagon shape for years

Pros
An SUV like no other
Perfectly matched powertrain
Rugged yet comfortable cabin
Trail model's handy off-road electronics
Off-road-ready TRD Pro Series

Cons
Third-row seat is for kids only
Cargo space isn't at all plentiful
Choppy ride in base versions
Pricey in Trail and Limited trim

By: 
thecarconnection.com

The 2016 Toyota 4Runner is a rugged body-on-frame SUV with more off-road capability than almost any rival, but as a daily driver it's lacking a bit of refinement.

Rowdy, off-road ready, truck-based SUVs were once the hottest segment in the market. But shoppers soon discovered that bouncy rides and poor fuel economy were also part of the deal. That ushered in the crossover, an easy-riding, car-based light utility vehicle that looks a lot like an SUV but lacks its truck-based ruggedness. There are only a few traditional SUVs left these days, and the 2016 Toyota 4Runner stands proudly among them. Boasting available three-row seating, a spacious cargo hold and Toyota's reputation for reliability, the 4Runner stays true to its roots as a hairy-chested SUV that's ready for almost anything

The 4Runner has a difficult time smoothing out potholes in the city with its busy ride, and its fuel economy is woeful compared to most V6-powered crossovers. And its optional third row seating is best reserved for kids, so if you want adult-sized space back there, you'll need to look elsewhere.

pros
Outstanding off-road capability
Strong V6 engine
Ample cargo capacity
Optional third-row seat.

cons
Busy ride
Third row is for kids only
Poor fuel economy
Low towing capacity for a traditional SUV
Cumbersome setup process for Entune system.

By: 
edmunds.com

Fuel

Fuel Type: 
Regular Unleaded
Regular Unleaded
Fuel Economy City USA: 
16.00mpg
17.00mpg
Fuel Economy HWY: 
22.00mpg
22.00mpg
Engine type: 
Petrol/Gas
Petrol/Gas

Engine and Performance

Valves: 
24
24
Cylinders: 
6
V
6
v
Engine Size/Displacement: 
3.50L
4.00L
Torque: 
350ft-lbs
at 3 500rpm
278ft-lbs
at 4 400rpm
Horsepower: 
365hp
at 5 500rpm
270hp
at 5 600rpm
Cam Type: 
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Turning Circle: 
40.00Feet
37.40Feet

Convenience

Cruise Control: 
yes
yes
Door Pockets: 
yes
yes
Cupholders: 
yes
yes
Overhead console: 
yes
yes
Seatback Storage: 
yes
no
Power Steering: 
yes
yes
Parking sensors: 
yes
no
Steering Wheel Tilt: 
yes
yes
Telescopic steering wheel: 
yes
yes
Rear View Camera: 
yes
yes
Front view Camera: 
yes
no
Side view Camera: 
no
no
On steering wheel: 
Transmission, cruise and audio controls on steering wheel
Audio and cruise controls on steering wheel
More in Convenience: 
Destination Download*
Universal remote transmitter (for garage door, security system, etc.)
Destination guidance (also Turn-by-Turn Navigation)*
Adjustable pedals
Universal remote transmitter (for garage door, security system, etc

Exterior Dimensions

Length: 
198.30in
190.20in
Width: 
78.90in
75.80in
Height: 
71.00in
71.50in
Ground Clearance: 
7.80in
9.00in
Front Track: 
63.00in
Rear Track: 
63.20in
Wheel Base: 
112.80in
109.80in

Interior Dimensions

Front Head Room: 
41.40
38.60
Rear Head Room: 
40.60
38.60
Front Leg Room: 
42.90in
41.70in
Rear leg room: 
39.50in
32.90in
Front Hip Room: 
57.30in
56.50in
Front Shoulder Room: 
61.50in
57.80in
Rear Hip Room: 
56.80in
55.70in
Rear Shoulder room: 
61.00in
57.80in

Weights and capacites

Cargo Capacity: 
81.70cu.ft
89.70cu.ft
Maximum Towing Capacity un-break: 
5000lbs
5000lbs
Cargo Capacity with Seats in Place: 
21.00cu.ft
47.20cu.ft
Angle of Approach: 
15.60degrees
30.00degrees
Angle of Departure: 
20.90degrees
26.00degrees
Curb Weight: 
4901.00lbs
4400.00lbs

Instruments

External Temperature Display: 
yes
yes
Clock: 
yes
yes
Trip computer: 
yes
yes
Techometer: 
yes
yes
Compass: 
yes
yes

Power Features

Power windows: 
yes
yes
Remote Keyless doors: 
yes
yes
More Power Features: 
2 one-touch power windows
Heated mirrors
4 one-touch power windows

Seats

Rear Seat Collapsible: 
yes
yes
Front Seats Features: 
8 -way power driver seat
Bucket front seats
Height adjustable passenger seat
Multi-level heating driver seat
Driver seat with power adjustable lumbar support
8 -way power passenger seat
Height adjustable driver seat
Leather
Multi-level heating passenger seat
Passenger seat with power adjustable lumbar support
Multi-level heating passenger seat
4 -way power passenger seat
Multi-level heating driver seat
Driver seat with power adjustable lumbar support
Leatherette
Bucket front seats
6 -way power driver seat
Rear Seats Features: 
Folding center armrest
Rear ventilation ducts with fan control
Power folding split-bench third row seats
Split-folding rear seatback
Reclining rear seats
Rear ventilation ducts
Split-folding rear seatback
Folding with storage center armrest

Suspension

Front Suspension: 
Front stabilizer bar
Front independent suspension
Rear Suspension: 
Rear stabilizer bar
Suspension Info: 
Four-wheel independent suspension
Front and rear stabilizer bar

Comfort

Interior air Filtration: 
yes
yes
Climate Control: 
yes
no
More Comfort Features: 
Dual illuminating vanity mirrors
Leather steering wheel
Turn signal in mirrors
Heated steering wheel
Front and rear air conditioning
Leather and simulated alloy steering wheel
Dual illuminating vanity mirrors
Electrochromatic inside rearview mirror
Turn signal in mirrors

Entertainment

DVD player: 
no
no
AM/FM Radio: 
yes
yes
Satellite radio: 
yes
yes
Video monitor: 
yes
no
More Entertainment: 
USB connection
Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control
Memory card slot
Surround audio surround audio (discrete)
Sony premium brand speakers
390 watts stero output
1 subwoofer(s)
12 total speakers
6 Months of provided satellite radio service
Sony premium brand stero system
8 total speakers
Satellite radio w/real time traffic satellite radio
3 Months of provided satellite radio service
Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control
USB connection

Exterior Features

Sunroof: 
no
no
Rear defogger: 
yes
yes
More in Glass and Roof: 
Privacy glass
Rear window wiper
Variable intermittent wipers
Roof rack
Variable intermittent wipers
Privacy glass
Intermittent rear wiper
Roof rack
Alloy Wheels: 
yes
yes
Wheel size: 
20 in
17 x 7.0 in
Wheels more: 
Underbody mounted spare tire
All season tires
Null spare wheel
Temporary spare tire
Fullsize non-matching spare tire
Underbody mounted spare tire
All season tires
Wheel Dimensions: 
Width: 
255.00millimeters
Aspect Ratio: 
50
Diameter: 
R20
Width: 
265.00millimeters
Aspect Ratio: 
70
Diameter: 
R17

Safety Features

ABS: 
yes
yes
Front head airbags: 
yes
yes
Rear head airbags: 
yes
yes
Dual front side-mounted airbags: 
yes
yes
Emergency braking assist: 
yes
yes
Traction control: 
yes
yes
Child seat anchors: 
yes
yes
Front brakes: 
Front ventilated disc brakes
Front ventilated disc brakes
Stability control: 
yes
yes
Rear brakes: 
rear ventilated disc brakes
rear ventilated disc brakes
Rear door child safety locks: 
yes
yes
Daytime running lights: 
yes
yes
Engine immobilizer: 
yes
yes
Front fog lights: 
yes
yes
Dusk sensing headlamps: 
yes
yes
Auto delay off headlamps: 
yes
yes
Front headrests: 
yes
yes
Rear headrests: 
yes
yes
Tire pressure monitoring: 
yes
yes
More Safety Features: 
Post-collision safety system
Airbag Deployment Notification*
BLIS Plus Inflatable Rear Seatbelt Package
Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning w/Brake Support
Rear height adjustable headrests
Rear center 3-point belt
Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
Remote anti-theft alarm system
Dual front with head protection chambers side-mounted airbags
TOYOGUARD Selec
TOYOGUARD Plus
TOYOGUARD Elite

Options

Packages: 
Equipment Group 401A
Equipment Group 400A
Preferred Accessory Package
Convenience Package
Exterior Options: 
Roof Rack Crossbars
Running Boards
P265/45ZR20 Summer Only Tires
Splash Guards
Dual Panel Moonroof
License Plate Bracket
Rear Bumper Protector
Wheel Lock Kit
Exhaust Tip
Hitch Ball Mount
TRD 17" Forged Beadlock Wheels
Mudguards
Chrome Exhaust Tip
Clear Paint Protection - Hood Package
Clear Paint Protection - Hood Package
Rigid Running Boards
Hood Protector
Wheel Locks
Interior Options: 
2nd Row Bucket Seats w/Power-Assist Fold
Cargo Shade
Smokers Kit w/Element
Deep Tray-Style All-Weather Floor Mats
Rear Cargo Well Protector
DVD Headrests
2nd Row Console
Cargo Tray
Carpet Floor and Cargo Mat Set
Dual Headrest DVD System
Carpet Floor Mats, Carpet Cargo Mat, All Weather Floor Mats
All-Weather Floor Mats and Cargo Tray
Cargo Net
Cargo Tray
Connectivity Package (4 Piece)
10" Overhead DVD System (req moonroof)

Colors

Interior Colors: 
Color: 
Medium Light Camel, cloth
#9A9789
Color: 
Graphite, leatherette
#313131
Sand Beige, leatherette
#B5AEA1