Both the 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2025 Toyota 4Runner are powerful SUVs that offer versatility for a wide range of adventures. Which one is right for you may depend on where and how you drive. Let’s take a quick look at how these rugged vehicles stack up against each other.
Which SUV Has More Interior Space?
Both the Explorer and the 4Runner include at least two rows of seating, while some models are available with a third row, allowing them to seat up to seven people.
While both vehicles offer spacious interiors, the Explorer beats the 4Runner on headroom and legroom. For example, the Explorer’s front row headroom is 40.7 inches, and the front row legroom is 43 inches. Meanwhile, the 4Runner’s front row headroom is 39.3 inches, and the front row legroom is 41.7 inches.
Which Has Better Technology?
Both vehicles come with infotainment touchscreen displays and a variety of integrated features that provide versatile connectivity on the go. For example, both the Explorer and the 4Runner have Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
How Does the Explorer & 4Runner Compare in Performance?
The Explorer comes with Ford’s BlueCruise technology, which is a hands-free driving assistant technology that helps with breaking and in-lane steering. This makes the Explorer an ideal choice for both long road trips and daily commutes. Keep in mind, though, that BlueCruise requires a subscription and can only be used on roads that are designated as Blue Zones.
Meanwhile, the 2025 4Runner has improved on-road handling from previous models, but the places where it shines most is offroad. Regardless of where you are though, the 4Runner is responsive. Its steering is considered better than the Explorer’s, though the 4Runner’s acceleration is slightly slower.
2025 Ford Explorer
2025 Ford Explorer
2025 4Runner
2025 4Runner
Which SUV Has Better MPG, Explorer or 4Runner?
The 4Runner’s fuel economy depends on which of the 12 trims you choose from. The two-wheel drive models, such as the SR5 and TDR Sport get 20/26 miles per gallon (city/highway). Offroad-ready four-wheel drive models, like the TDR Off-Road, get 19/25 MPG. However, higher-end models, such as the Platinum and Trailhunter, get 24/25 MPG despite being four-wheel drive.
When it comes to the Explorer, there are four trims to choose from, two with a 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine and two with a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine, which makes it simpler to determine fuel economy. The I-4 engine gets an estimated 20/29 MPG, but when four-wheel drive is engaged efficiency drops slightly to 20/27 MPG. Meanwhile, the V6 engine gets 18/25 MPG both with rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive.
When it comes to the cost to maintain these vehicles, the estimated annual cost to maintain a 2025 4Runner is $514, while the estimate for the 2025 Explorer is $732. Keep in mind that these are general estimates, and actual costs vary depending on the model, mileage, and usage of your vehicle.
Call our service department at 501-599-3287 for any questions about suggested maintenance on this vehicle.
Which Vehicle Is Right for You?
While both look sleek and classy, the Explorer has a more understated, classic design, while the 4Runner is there to make a rugged statement.
Both the 2025 Ford Explorer and the Toyota 4Runner have a lot to offer as powerful, versatile SUVs. Many of the differences between the two are small, while others are more significant. The Ford Explorer is ideal for families and commuters who want a comfortable, tech-savvy SUV with three-row versatility, while the Toyota 4Runner is ideal for adventure-seekers who need a rugged, off-road-ready SUV built for durability and exploration.
Visit Riser Ford for more details on the Explorer, or to schedule a test-drive.
