Confession: I’m a huge Toyota fan.
Looking to downsize from my Tundra to an SUV, and I’m seriously eyeing the Explorer. I like the looks, drive, and ride of it. Aside from the better MPG, what other reasons would make the Explorer a better choice than the 4Runner?
Definitely smoother ride since it’s not built like a truck.
I had a 4Runner before and now drive an Explorer ST. The handling is way better in the Explorer, plus all the extras like heated seats, heated steering wheel, etc. The 4Runner felt like a basic truck to me, while the Explorer feels more like a car when I drive it. Also, the engine is more responsive, the transmission is smoother, and the ride overall is just more enjoyable than the 4Runner.
Third row seating.
Alston said:
Third row seating.
The 4Runner has an optional third row too.
Alston said:
Third row seating.
The 4Runner has an optional third row too.
True, but only on certain trims, like the SR5—not the TRD Pro. It’s also a lot rougher ride and louder. Feels way more like a truck. But some people prefer that.
Have you taken both for a test drive? I’d suggest doing that first.
I’ve had two Explorers, and I’m already planning on getting my third. I have every reason to drive a Toyota, and I’ve tried out every SUV Toyota has, but I keep coming back to the Explorer.
Just the feel when you open and close the doors—4Runner doors feel thin and light compared to the Explorer’s. The interior feels way nicer in the Explorer. Then there’s the handling, the smoothness on rough roads, the tech, the room, and the power. I could keep going! Really, just take them both out for a drive, and you’ll see the difference.
@Darin
Yeah, I’ve owned a 4Runner and then went to the Tundra. For me, it’s all about reliability, easy maintenance, and resale value.
Stormy said:
@Darin
Yeah, I’ve owned a 4Runner and then went to the Tundra. For me, it’s all about reliability, easy maintenance, and resale value.
Totally get that. I had a 2017 Explorer up to 80k miles, but I didn’t want to deal with any major issues. Now I’m at 40k on my 2022, and it’s been smooth sailing. It really comes down to whether you want a vehicle to keep long-term or if you’re thinking of trading in every 4-5 years. A lot of people keep their Explorers for a long time, but my husband works in the car industry (not with Ford), so we tend to swap them out more often.
@Darin
I’m in a rural area, so I rack up miles pretty fast. That’s why fuel economy and comfort are big factors. It’s not an easy decision!
Stormy said:
@Darin
I’m in a rural area, so I rack up miles pretty fast. That’s why fuel economy and comfort are big factors. It’s not an easy decision!
I know what you mean. We live on the edge of town, and I drive through farm roads to get my kid to school every day. My mileage was good on the 2017, and it’s even better on my 2022. I went with the 2.3L engine to save on gas, but I do want the sport model eventually. Just didn’t like the MPG trade-off at the time.
Stormy said:
@Darin
Yeah, I’ve owned a 4Runner and then went to the Tundra. For me, it’s all about reliability, easy maintenance, and resale value.
I’ve been driving Fords for 53 years and have yet to have a lemon. I have a '21 Explorer XLT now with no issues so far. Sure, some folks have issues with any vehicle, but that’s true of any brand. Heard of people having problems with 4Runners, too. So don’t let reliability concerns keep you away—any car can have issues, or be totally fine. I’ve tried other brands but always go back to Ford.
@Darin
The Explorer and Edge both seem to have great fit and finish.
The Explorer has a third row and a lot more power, so it doesn’t take forever to accelerate onto the highway.
Honestly, comparing the Explorer to the 4Runner is like comparing apples to oranges. The Explorer’s no longer a truck-based SUV. Toyota’s closer match would actually be the Highlander.
I haven’t owned a Toyota since my first car, an ‘87 Celica. Since then, I’ve had several Fords—Escapes, Expeditions, Thunderbirds, Mustangs, and now a '17 Explorer, which I bought new and still have. It’s got nearly 140k miles and runs like a charm. Still feels new and looks great. The '17 Explorer has been the best daily driver I’ve had. Highly recommend.
There’s way more room in the Explorer, and the dashboard doesn’t feel like it’s right up in your face.
For me, it came down to size. I’ve always loved 4Runners, but they felt a bit cramped. I was never really a Ford fan, but after I test-drove an Explorer, I was hooked and held out until I found the perfect one. I have a 2022 Limited with third-row seating, heated front and middle seats, heated steering wheel, and tons of other features I’m still figuring out a month later.
Fun and style vs. dependability and simplicity. I switched from a low-mileage '17 4Runner Limited to a '22 Explorer ST. I missed the tech, the acceleration, and the third row. The ST is just fun to drive—though I’m still annoyed by the vibrating sunroof issue.
If I wasn’t as picky and could stick with something simple, the 4Runner would’ve lasted forever. It’s now in our rental fleet because it’s so reliable.
They’re on opposite ends of the SUV spectrum.
Explorer is all about MPG, comfort, and hauling people. 4Runner is great for off-road stuff. I’m happy with my Explorer for towing my boat, but Toyota definitely wins on reliability and resale.