Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially when you’re juggling the needs of a growing family, the demands of weekend adventures, and the practicalities of daily commuting. Two popular contenders often considered are the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Sequoia. Both are known for their spacious interiors and robust capabilities, but one key question often arises: which is actually bigger? This in-depth comparison will delve into the dimensions, cargo capacity, passenger space, and overall size differences between the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Sequoia, helping you determine which SUV truly reigns supreme.
Exterior Dimensions: A Tale of Two SUVs
When comparing the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Sequoia, the first area of scrutiny is their exterior dimensions. These figures provide a tangible sense of the vehicle’s presence and footprint, impacting everything from garage fit to maneuverability in tight spaces.
Overall Length: Stretching the Tape Measure
The Toyota Sequoia unequivocally outstrips the Ford Explorer in overall length. The Sequoia, being a full-size SUV, is significantly longer than the mid-size Explorer. You’ll find the Sequoia typically stretching over 205 inches, while the Explorer hovers around the 199-inch mark. This difference in length translates directly into a larger profile and, generally, more interior space.
Width and Height: Assessing the Stance
While length is a significant differentiator, width and height also play crucial roles in defining a vehicle’s size and presence. The Toyota Sequoia generally boasts a wider stance than the Ford Explorer, contributing to its commanding road presence. Expect the Sequoia to be approximately 80 inches wide, excluding mirrors, while the Explorer usually measures around 79 inches.
In terms of height, the Sequoia also edges out the Explorer. Its taller roofline contributes to enhanced headroom, particularly in the third row. The Sequoia typically stands at around 77 inches tall, while the Explorer is a bit shorter, around 70 inches.
Wheelbase: The Foundation of Space
The wheelbase, the distance between the front and rear axles, significantly influences ride quality and interior space. A longer wheelbase generally translates to a smoother ride and more legroom, especially for rear passengers. The Toyota Sequoia boasts a longer wheelbase than the Ford Explorer. This longer wheelbase contributes to the Sequoia’s superior stability and more spacious cabin.
Interior Space: Where the Rubber Meets the Road
Ultimately, the most crucial aspect of size comparison revolves around the interior space. How well does each SUV accommodate passengers and cargo? Let’s break down the critical interior dimensions.
Passenger Volume: Room for Everyone
Passenger volume refers to the total cubic feet of space available for occupants inside the vehicle. The Toyota Sequoia generally offers a higher passenger volume than the Ford Explorer. This translates into more elbow room, legroom, and headroom for passengers in all three rows. If comfortably accommodating a larger family or frequently transporting adult passengers in the third row is a priority, the Sequoia holds a distinct advantage.
Headroom, Legroom, and Shoulder Room: The Comfort Quotient
Delving deeper into the passenger space, let’s examine the specific dimensions of headroom, legroom, and shoulder room. In the front row, both the Explorer and Sequoia provide ample space for the driver and front passenger. However, as you move towards the second and third rows, the differences become more pronounced.
The Sequoia typically offers more legroom and shoulder room in the second and third rows compared to the Explorer. This difference is particularly noticeable in the third row, where the Sequoia provides a more adult-friendly seating experience. The Explorer’s third row, while functional, is often better suited for children or smaller adults on shorter trips.
Cargo Capacity: Hauling Your Gear
Cargo capacity is a critical factor for many SUV buyers. Whether you’re hauling groceries, luggage, sports equipment, or camping gear, having ample cargo space is essential. Let’s examine the cargo capacity of the Explorer and Sequoia behind each row of seats.
Behind the third row, the Toyota Sequoia typically offers significantly more cargo space than the Ford Explorer. This is a crucial advantage for families who frequently travel with all seats occupied and still need to accommodate luggage or other belongings.
With the third row folded down, both SUVs offer a substantial increase in cargo space. However, the Sequoia still generally maintains a lead over the Explorer in this configuration.
With both the second and third rows folded down, the Toyota Sequoia’s cavernous cargo area truly shines. It provides a vast amount of space for hauling large items or bulky cargo. While the Explorer also offers a respectable amount of cargo space with the seats folded, it simply cannot match the Sequoia’s overall capacity.
Performance and Capability: Beyond Size
While size is a crucial consideration, it’s essential to consider performance and capability. How do the Ford Explorer and Toyota Sequoia compare in terms of engine options, towing capacity, and off-road prowess?
Engine Options and Power: Under the Hood
The Ford Explorer typically offers a range of engine options, including turbocharged four-cylinder and V6 engines. These engines provide a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The Toyota Sequoia, on the other hand, generally comes equipped with a more powerful V8 engine. This engine provides ample power for towing and hauling heavy loads.
Towing Capacity: Pulling Power
Towing capacity is a significant factor for buyers who plan to tow trailers, boats, or other recreational vehicles. The Toyota Sequoia generally boasts a higher towing capacity than the Ford Explorer, owing to its larger engine and more robust construction. If towing is a priority, the Sequoia holds a clear advantage.
Off-Road Capability: Venturing Off the Beaten Path
Both the Ford Explorer and Toyota Sequoia offer available four-wheel-drive systems that enhance their off-road capability. However, the Sequoia, with its higher ground clearance and more rugged construction, is generally considered to be more capable off-road.
Price and Value: Balancing the Budget
Price is always a crucial factor in any vehicle purchase. The Ford Explorer typically has a lower starting price than the Toyota Sequoia. This is due in part to the Explorer’s smaller size and less powerful engine options. The Toyota Sequoia, with its larger size, more powerful engine, and more premium features, generally commands a higher price.
When assessing value, consider your specific needs and priorities. If you prioritize affordability and fuel efficiency, the Explorer may be a better choice. If you prioritize space, towing capacity, and off-road capability, the Sequoia may be worth the extra investment.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right SUV for Your Needs
In the Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Sequoia debate, the Toyota Sequoia is undoubtedly the larger vehicle overall. It boasts greater length, width, height, and wheelbase, translating into more passenger volume and cargo capacity. However, the Ford Explorer offers a more compact size, potentially better fuel economy, and a lower price point.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you require maximum space for passengers and cargo, and towing capacity is a priority, the Toyota Sequoia is the clear winner. However, if you value affordability, fuel efficiency, and a more manageable size, the Ford Explorer may be a better fit. Carefully consider your priorities and test drive both vehicles to determine which one best meets your needs and lifestyle. The right SUV awaits – it’s simply a matter of finding the perfect match.
Which SUV offers more passenger seating, the Ford Explorer or the Toyota Sequoia?
The Toyota Sequoia generally offers more passenger seating configurations than the Ford Explorer. While both SUVs offer three rows, the Sequoia typically has options for seating up to eight passengers, depending on the trim and configuration. This is primarily due to its larger size and more spacious interior.
The Ford Explorer, although also offering three rows, typically accommodates seven passengers. Some Explorer trims might offer a bench seat in the second row, increasing capacity to eight, but this is less common than the configurations available in the Sequoia. Therefore, if maximizing passenger capacity is a primary concern, the Sequoia often provides a more flexible and accommodating solution.
How does cargo space compare between the Ford Explorer and Toyota Sequoia, particularly behind the third row?
When comparing cargo space behind the third row, the Toyota Sequoia consistently outperforms the Ford Explorer. The Sequoia, with its larger overall dimensions, offers significantly more cubic feet of storage in this area, making it more suitable for families who regularly travel with all seats occupied and need ample room for luggage or groceries.
The Ford Explorer, while still offering usable cargo space behind the third row, has considerably less room compared to the Sequoia. This difference can be critical for those who frequently transport large items or require substantial storage capacity when all passenger seats are in use. Therefore, for cargo-heavy trips, the Sequoia provides a clear advantage.
Which SUV, the Ford Explorer or the Toyota Sequoia, provides more legroom for third-row passengers?
The Toyota Sequoia generally provides more legroom for third-row passengers compared to the Ford Explorer. Its larger wheelbase and overall dimensions translate to a more spacious third row, making it more comfortable for adults to sit in for longer journeys. This difference is particularly noticeable on extended road trips.
The Ford Explorer, while offering a third row, tends to have tighter legroom in that area. This can make it less comfortable for adult passengers or taller teenagers on longer drives. Consequently, if third-row passenger comfort, particularly legroom, is a high priority, the Sequoia is usually the better choice.
How do the Ford Explorer and Toyota Sequoia compare in terms of overall length and width?
The Toyota Sequoia is noticeably larger in both overall length and width compared to the Ford Explorer. This difference in size contributes to the Sequoia’s greater interior space, including more cargo capacity and passenger room. The Sequoia’s larger footprint is a key factor differentiating it from the Explorer.
The Ford Explorer, while still a sizable SUV, is more compact in its dimensions compared to the Sequoia. This makes the Explorer slightly easier to maneuver in urban environments and park in tighter spaces. However, this reduced size also translates to less interior space compared to the Sequoia.
Considering interior volume, which SUV offers more space, the Ford Explorer or the Toyota Sequoia?
The Toyota Sequoia offers significantly more interior volume compared to the Ford Explorer. This increased volume translates directly into more passenger space in all three rows, as well as greater cargo capacity, especially behind the third row. The larger overall dimensions of the Sequoia contribute to this advantage.
The Ford Explorer, while providing a comfortable interior space for its size class, simply cannot match the overall interior volume of the Sequoia. The Explorer’s more compact dimensions result in less headroom, legroom, and shoulder room for passengers, and less cargo area when all rows are in use.
Which SUV is generally easier to maneuver and park in urban environments, the Ford Explorer or the Toyota Sequoia?
The Ford Explorer is generally easier to maneuver and park in urban environments compared to the Toyota Sequoia. Its smaller overall dimensions and tighter turning radius make it more manageable in congested areas and easier to fit into parking spaces. This is a significant advantage for city dwellers.
The Toyota Sequoia, due to its larger size and longer wheelbase, requires more careful maneuvering in urban settings. Finding suitable parking spaces can also be more challenging. While the Sequoia offers benefits in terms of interior space, its size can be a drawback in crowded cities.
How does the storage space behind the second row compare when the third row seats are folded down in the Ford Explorer versus the Toyota Sequoia?
When the third-row seats are folded down, the Toyota Sequoia generally offers considerably more storage space behind the second row compared to the Ford Explorer. The Sequoia’s larger frame translates directly to a bigger cargo area, providing ample room for hauling larger items or luggage for longer trips.
The Ford Explorer, even with the third row folded, offers less cargo capacity behind the second row than the Sequoia. While the Explorer provides a reasonable amount of space for most needs, those frequently requiring significant cargo volume will likely find the Sequoia’s offering more accommodating.