Choosing the right 7-seater family SUV in the UAE can be challenging, especially when popular options like the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander dominate the Dubai and Abu Dhabi markets. In this Ford Explorer vs Toyota Highlander UAE comparison, we break down price, specifications, fuel economy, interior comfort, safety, resale value, and real-world UAE driving performance to help families make a confident buying decision.
Ford Explorer vs Toyota Highlander: Design Philosophy & Driving Character in the UAE
The Ford Explorer UAE is known for its bold design, powerful engine options, and spacious cabin. It appeals to buyers looking for a confident road presence and strong highway performance. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, focuses on efficiency, reliability, and smooth driving. With the availability of a Toyota Highlander hybrid UAE, it has become a favourite among eco-conscious families seeking a reliable family SUV in the UAE. This Ford Explorer vs Toyota Highlander comparison in the UAE highlights how both SUVs serve different priorities within the same segment.
Ford Explorer vs Toyota Highlander Specifications (UAE Models)
| Specification | Ford Explorer (UAE) | Toyota Highlander (UAE) |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 5,049 mm | 4,966 mm |
| Overall Height | 1,775 mm | 1,775 mm |
| Overall Width | 2,004 mm | 1,930 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3,025 mm | 2,850 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 214 mm | 200 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 2,050–2,150 kg | 2,030 kg |
| Boot Capacity | 515 L | 658 L |
| Seating Capacity | 7 Seater | 7 Seater |
| Number of Doors | 5 Doors | 5 Doors |
Ford Explorer vs Toyota Highlander UAE Price Comparison
Price is a key factor for buyers searching for an affordable 7-seater SUV in the UAE. In terms of upfront cost, both SUVs are competitively priced, but the Toyota Highlander UAE price reflects excellent long-term value due to lower fuel and maintenance costs.
| Model | Price, Key Specifications & Description |
| Ford Explorer | Price: From approx. AED 236.000 in UAE. Key Specs: 2.3L EcoBoost turbo engine, up to 300 hp, 10-speed automatic, RWD/AWD options, 7-seater, advanced driver-assist features. Description: A powerful midsize SUV ideal for UAE highways and families who want strong performance with modern technology. |
| Toyota Highlander | Price: From approx. AED 205,900 in UAE. Key Specs: 2.5L hybrid or 3.5L V6 engine options, CVT/automatic transmission, FWD/AWD, 7-seater, Toyota Safety Sense. Description: A comfortable and fuel-efficient family SUV, well-suited for city driving and long trips across the UAE. |
Engine Options and Performance
Performance matters, especially for long highway drives between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and if you’re exploring other Ford SUVs for UAE roads, the Everest V6 also offers strong highway performance. The Ford Explorer engine UAE lineup includes a 2.3L turbocharged petrol engine producing around 300 hp, delivering confident acceleration and strong towing ability. This makes it one of the top SUVs for UAE highways, especially for families who frequently travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The Toyota Highlander engine UAE offers a 2.5L petrol engine and a highly efficient Hybrid SUV options UAE, including the Highlander hybrid variant. While not as powerful as the Explorer, it provides smooth and refined performance ideal for daily use. For buyers who enjoy spirited driving, the Explorer stands out. For those prioritizing efficiency, the Highlander wins.
Mileage and Fuel Economy
Fuel economy plays a major role in long-term ownership costs for UAE families, especially with rising fuel prices and daily commuting between cities. The Ford Explorer mileage in the UAE averages around 9–10 km/l, which is reasonable for a powerful midsize SUV but higher in fuel consumption.
The Toyota Highlander’s fuel economy in the UAE is significantly better. Petrol versions deliver around 12–13 km/l, while the hybrid can exceed 18–20 km/l, making it one of the best options for SUV fuel efficiency in the UAE. For families with long daily commutes, the Highlander clearly offers savings.
Interior Comfort, Space & Family Practicality in the UAE
Interior comfort is where family SUVs truly prove their worth. The Ford Explorer interior in the UAE feels spacious and premium, with wide seats, a large infotainment screen, and a driver-focused dashboard. Third-row space is generous, making it ideal for family-friendly SUVs in Dubai & the UAE.
The Toyota Highlander interior in the UAE emphasizes comfort and practicality. The cabin feels airy, with soft-touch materials, excellent legroom, and a flexible seating layout. The hybrid version also benefits from a quiet and smooth ride. In terms of SUV interior comfort in the UAE, both excel, but the Highlander feels more refined for everyday family use.
| Metric | Ford Explorer (UAE) | Toyota Highlander (UAE) |
| Engine Type | Inline 4-cylinder Petrol | Inline 4-cylinder |
| Displacement | 2,273 cc | 2,487 cc |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 240 hp |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Cylinder | 4 | 4 |
| Acceleration (0–100 km/h) | 7.5–7.8 sec | 8.3 seconds |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 180 km/h |
| Drive Type | RWD / 4WD | FWD |
| Start/Stop System | Yes | Yes |
Features and Technology
Modern families expect advanced features. The Ford Explorer features include digital displays, wireless smartphone connectivity, premium audio systems, and multiple drive modes. The Toyota Highlander features UAE offers similar tech, plus efficient climate control and advanced hybrid energy monitoring in hybrid trims. Both SUVs meet expectations in the luxury midsize SUVs UAE category, offering the technology and comfort features modern families expect from a premium 7-seater.
Safety Ratings and Driver Assistance
Safety is non-negotiable when choosing the best family SUV in the UAE. The Ford Explorer safety features in the UAE include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and multiple airbags. The Toyota Highlander safety rating in the UAE is excellent, supported by Toyota Safety Sense with automatic emergency braking, lane tracing assist, and pedestrian detection. Both score highly in SUV safety ratings in Dubai, but Toyota’s reputation for safetyand reliability gives it a slight edge.
Ground Clearance and UAE Road Conditions
UAE roads vary from smooth highways to sandy tracks. The Ford Explorer ground clearance in the UAE is approximately 214 mm, making it suitable for uneven roads and light off-road conditions. The Toyota Highlander ground clearance in the UAE is slightly lower, but still sufficient for city driving and occasional desert access roads. Neither is a hardcore off-roader, but both handle an SUV for long desert drives in the UAE comfortably when driven sensibly.
| Feature | Ford Explorer (UAE) | Toyota Highlander (UAE) |
| Climate Control | 4-Zone | 3-Zone Automatic |
| Rear AC Vents | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Front & Rear |
| Ventilated Seats | Yes | Front Only |
| Leather Seats | Premium Leather | Premium Leather |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Yes | Yes |
| Interior Lighting | Ambient LED + Premium | Ambient LED Mood Lighting |
Resale Value and Ownership Costs
Long-term value matters in the Abu Dhabi SUV market trends. The Ford Explorer resale value in the UAE is decent, but it typically drops faster than Toyota models. The Toyota Highlander resale value in the UAE is among the best in the segment, making it one of the best resale SUVs in Dubai & Abu Dhabi. Maintenance costs also favour Toyota, especially for the hybrid, which has proven reliability.
Which SUV Is Right for You?
Choose the Ford Explorer if you want:
- Strong engine performance and road presence
- Spacious interior with sporty appeal
- Confident highway driving across the UAE
Choose the Toyota Highlander if you want:
- Excellent fuel efficiency and hybrid option
- Proven reliability and high resale value
- Comfortable, family-focused design
Final Verdict
In this Ford Explorer vs Toyota Highlander UAE comparison, both SUVs deliver excellent value, but for different buyers. The Explorer suits families who prioritize power and space, while the Highlander is ideal for those seeking efficiency, comfort, and long-term peace of mind.
If your focus is performance and presence, the Ford Explorer is a strong choice. If you value fuel savings, resale value, and reliability, the Toyota Highlander stands out as one of the best family SUVs in the UAE.
FAQs
Which is superior between the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander on UAE roads?
They both are fine on the UAE roads, but the Ford Explorer is more appropriate for those who require power and stability on the highway, and the Toyota Highlander is more comfortable, efficient, and suitable for everyday family use.
How much is the cost of a Ford Explorer in the UAE?
In the UAE, the price of the Ford Explorer will be around AED 170,000 and may increase based on the trim and functionality.
How much does a Toyota Highlander cost in the UAE?
In the UAE, the Toyota Highlander has a starting price of between AED 165,000, with higher prices being charged on the hybrid models.
Between Explorer and Highlander, which SUV is more fuel-efficient in the UAE?
Highlander by Toyota is more economical to drive in the UAE in terms of fuel consumption, and the hybrid version is more fuel-efficient.
Will the Ford Explorer work well in desert driving in the UAE?
The powerful engine and good ground clearance of the Ford Explorer do make it a good choice on a light desert drive and long highway drive, but it is not a hardcore off-road SUV.
Does the Toyota Highlander come in the UAE as a hybrid?
Yes, there is a Highlander Hybrid available in the UAE, produced by Toyota, that is very fuel-efficient and easy to drive.
