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New 2026 Explorer vs. Highlander


2026 Ford Explorer vs. 2026 Toyota Highlander in Boerne, TX


If you’re shopping for a versatile three-row SUV near Boerne, San Antonio, Kerrville, Comfort, or Fredericksburg, two popular choices are the 2026 Ford Explorer and the 2026 Toyota Highlander. While both offer family-friendly features, the Explorer stands out with stronger performance, advanced technology, and greater versatility. Browse our new Explorer inventory at Ford of Boerne to find the right model for your lifestyle.



2026 Ford Explorer for sale in Boerne, TX


What’s New for the 2026 Ford Explorer?

The 2026 Ford Explorer introduces exciting updates that elevate performance, comfort, and innovation—making it a standout in the midsize SUV segment.

Highlights:

  • New off-road-ready Tremor® model

  • Available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving with Automatic Lane Change

  • Up to 400 horsepower with available 3.0L EcoBoost® engine

  • 5,000 lbs towing capacity

  • Available panoramic fixed glass roof across more trims

  • Advanced connectivity with Wi-Fi®, streaming, and voice assistant features 


2026 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander Performance

When comparing performance, the 2026 Ford Explorer clearly takes the lead.

2026 Ford Explorer

  • Standard 2.3L EcoBoost® engine

  • Available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 with up to 400 horsepower

  • 5,000 lbs towing capacity

  • Rear-wheel-drive platform for more engaging performance

  • Available off-road capability with Tremor®


2026 Toyota Highlander

  • 2.4L turbo engine with 265 horsepower

  • Hybrid option focused on efficiency

  • 5,000 lbs towing capacity

  • Front-wheel-drive-based platform

  • No true off-road-focused trim


Takeaway: If you want stronger acceleration, more horsepower, and off-road readiness, the Explorer is the more capable SUV.




Interior of the 2026 Ford Explorer for sale near San Antonio, TX


2026 Ford Explorer Interior & Space Comparison

Both SUVs offer three-row seating, but the Explorer provides a more flexible and driver-focused interior.

2026 Ford Explorer

  • Seating for 6 or 7 passengers

  • Available second-row captain’s chairs or bench seating

  • Up to 85.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo space

  • Available massaging front seats and premium materials

  • PowerFold® third-row seating available


2026 Toyota Highlander

  • Seating for up to 8 passengers

  • Competitive cargo space but less configurable

  • Premium features limited to higher trims

  • Hybrid models prioritize efficiency over performance


Takeaway: The Explorer offers more versatility, premium comfort options, and better cargo flexibility for growing families.




Infotainment in the 2026 Ford Explorer for sale near Kerrville, TX


2026 Ford Explorer Technology Features Near Boerne, TX

What are the technology features of the new Ford Explorer? This SUV is designed to keep you connected, entertained, and confident on every drive.

Explorer Technology Highlights:

  • Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+

  • Available BlueCruise hands-free driving

  • 360-Degree Camera

  • SYNC® infotainment with streaming, games, and Wi-Fi® hotspot

  • B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen®

  • 12" digital displays and head-up display


Toyota Highlander Technology:

  • Toyota Audio Multimedia system

  • Available 12.3" touchscreen

  • JBL® premium audio system

  • Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™


Takeaway: While both SUVs offer modern tech, the Explorer’s hands-free driving and advanced connectivity features give it a clear edge.


2026 Ford Explorer Trim Levels

What trim levels are available for the new Explorer? The 2026 Ford Explorer offers a wider range of trim levels designed for different driving styles, from the rugged Tremor® to the high-performance ST and the luxurious Platinum™. In comparison, the Toyota Highlander’s trims focus mostly on comfort and features, with fewer distinct options. This gives the Explorer a clear advantage for drivers who want more customization and capability.

Explorer® Active / Active 100A

  • 2.3L EcoBoost® engine

  • Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+

  • Selectable drive modes

  • Class III Trailer Tow Package


Explorer® ST-Line

  • Sporty styling with red-stitched seating

  • 360-Degree Camera

  • B&O® premium audio system


Explorer® Tremor®

  • Available 3.0L EcoBoost® engine

  • Off-road tuned suspension

  • Increased ride height and underbody protection


Explorer® Platinum™

  • BlueCruise hands-free driving

  • Heated, ventilated, massaging front seats

  • Available panoramic glass roof


Explorer® ST

  • 3.0L EcoBoost® engine

  • Sport-tuned suspension

  • Performance brakes




2026 Ford Explorer for sale near Comfort, TX


2026 Ford Explorer Safety Features Near San Antonio, TX

What are the safety features of the new Ford Explorer? Confidence comes standard thanks to a wide range of driver-assist technologies.

Safety Features Include:

  • Ford Co-Pilot360® technologies

  • Adaptive Cruise Control

  • Lane-Keeping System

  • Blind Spot Information System

  • 360-Degree Camera

  • Automatic Emergency Braking


Toyota Highlander Safety

  • Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+

  • Pre-Collision System

  • Lane Departure Alert

  • Adaptive cruise control


Takeaway: Both SUVs prioritize safety, but the Explorer’s available BlueCruise hands-free system delivers a more advanced driving experience.


2026 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander FAQs

How much does the 2026 Ford Explorer cost?
The 2026 Explorer starts at $38,465, making it more affordable than the Highlander’s starting MSRP of $45,570.

Which SUV has more horsepower?
The Explorer offers up to 400 horsepower, significantly more than the Highlander’s 265 horsepower.

Which SUV is better for towing?
Both offer up to 5,000 lbs towing, but the Explorer provides more power and capability for hauling.

Which SUV is better for off-roading?
The Explorer Tremor® is specifically designed for off-road performance, giving it a clear advantage.

What colors are available for the Explorer?
Options include Space White Metallic, Vapor Blue Metallic, Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Carbonized Gray Metallic, and more.


Test Drive the 2026 Ford Explorer in Boerne, TX

Ready to upgrade to a powerful and versatile SUV? The 2026 Ford Explorer is available now at Ford of Boerne, located at 31480 IH-10 West, Boerne, TX 78006.

Browse our new inventory, get an estimate for your trade-in, and explore flexible financing options online. Then visit us from San Antonio, Kerrville, Comfort, or Fredericksburg to take the Explorer for a test drive and see why it’s the better choice over the Toyota Highlander.


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24 Oz Roadie Yeti While Supplies Last. Only Available on F-150, F-250 & Bronco.

Excludes tax, tag, title, license $225 doc fee, and Ford Protection Package. Customer is responsible for auto insurance on leased or purchased vehicle. With approved credit through Ford Motor Credit. Courtsey Vehicle 2025 F-150 XLT. stock 251746. MSRP $60,100. $15,000 discount includes $2,000 Retail Bonus Cash (Program #11664), $1,250 Retail Customer Cash (Program #11672), $2,500 Retail Bonus Cash (Program #11670), Truck Month Retail Bonus Cash (PGM# 11728) and $6,250 dealer discount. Selling price $45,100. See your dealer for details and model exclusions. Ends 03-31-26. Excludes tax, tag, title, license $225 doc fee, and Ford Protection Package. Customer is responsible for auto insurance on leased or purchased vehicle. With approved credit through Ford Motor Credit. New 2026 F-150 STX. stock 260399. MSRP $51,490. $10,000 discount includes $2,000 Retail Customer Cash (Program #11664), $1,000 Retail Bonus Cash (Program #11670), $3,000 STX Mid Discount, $1,000 STX 2.7L Discount and $3,000 dealer discount. Selling price $41,490. See your dealer for details and model exclusions. Ends 03-31-26. Excludes tax, tag, title, license $225 doc fee, and Ford Protection Package. Customer is responsible for auto insurance on leased or purchased vehicle. With approved credit through Ford Motor Credit.Purchase: 0% APR for 60 months. Payments based on $16.67/$1,000 financed. First payment deferred for 90 days from the purchase date. Interest will continue to accrue during this period and will be added to your loan balance once payments begin. Not all buyers qualify, and terms and conditions apply. See your dealer for details and model exclusions. Ends 03-31-26. Excludes tax, tag, title, license $225 doc fee, and Ford Protection Package. Customer is responsible for auto insurance on leased or purchased vehicle. With approved credit through Ford Motor Credit. New 2026 F-150 STX. stock 260399. MSRP $51,490. Purchase: 0% APR for 36 months. Payments based on $27.78/$1,000 financed. First payment deferred for 90 days from the purchase date. Interest will continue to accrue during this period and will be added to your loan balance once payments begin. Not all buyers qualify, and terms and conditions apply. See your dealer for details and model exclusions. Ends 03-31-26.

DISCLAIMERS:

Extra-cost color option

Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment, and need to control the vehicle. They do not make your vehicle autonomous or replace your responsibility to drive safely. Please only use if you will pay attention to the road and be prepared to take over at any time. See Owner’s Manual for details and limitations.

Available Connectivity features and functionality vary by model and compatible devices. Package pricing, features, included plans, and term lengths vary by model. Some features may only be available while vehicle is parked. Owners can log into the FordPass® app to see specific features available to them. Credit card required for Plan activation automatically renews until cancelled. Terms apply.

Available feature on select vehicles. BlueCruise requires an active plan or trial – see ford.com/bluecruise for details. Terms apply. BlueCruise is a driver-assist feature and does not replace safe driving or driver’s attention, judgment, and need to control the vehicle. Only remove hands in a hands-free Blue Zone. Always watch the road and be prepared to resume control. See Owner’s Manual for details and limitations.

Current Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for base vehicle. Excludes destination/delivery fee plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer processing charge, any electronic filing charge, and any emission testing charge. Optional equipment not included. Starting A/X/Z Plan price is for qualified, eligible customers and excludes document fee, destination/delivery charge, taxes, title and registration. Not all vehicles qualify for A/X/Z Plan.

When properly equipped. Max towing varies based on cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories, and number of passengers.

Horsepower and torque ratings based on premium fuel per SAE J1349® standard. Your results may vary.

Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and weight distribution.



Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license charges. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.

Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include dealer added options, applicable tax, title, and license charges. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.