Trying to Decide… Ford Explorer or RAV4?

@Frankie
Yeah, I don’t need crazy towing power, but I want to be able to pull a small trailer. The RAV4 is basically maxed out towing a riding mower, which feels too limited.

That said, I don’t know how often I’ll actually need that ability. That’s my biggest dilemma.

@Moe
Exactly. Renting a truck for the occasional tow is under $100. When I had a truck, I thought I’d be towing all the time, but I barely did. I could’ve saved thousands by just renting when I actually needed it.

@Frankie
Good point. I didn’t think about that.

I was in the same exact situation a few days ago.

Both are good cars, but I ended up buying an Explorer. It’s just so much better to drive:

  • Way more powerful and faster
  • Double-paned glass and much better sound insulation
  • 7 seats and way more space
  • Much better screen and gauge cluster (in my opinion)
  • Much smoother ride, though it can feel a little floaty

I was also surprised—my 2023 Explorer gets better gas mileage than my old 2017 Camry. So for me, it was an easy decision.

@Drue
That’s exactly how I feel after test-driving both. The RAV4’s gas mileage is amazing, but that’s really its only big advantage. The Explorer just feels so much more solid.

The only thing I wish it had was a bit more ground clearance, but I’m not doing serious off-roading, so I probably don’t need it.