Ford Explorer vs Toyota 4RUNNER
The Toyota 4RUNNER is more fuel-efficient at 19 MPG combined, against 18 MPG for the Ford Explorer. At EPA assumptions that is about $150 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Ford Explorer | Toyota 4RUNNER | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,203 | 638 |
| Most reported problem | Tires | Body & structure |
| Crashes and fires | 115 and 84 | 44 and 2 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 78,000 miles | 145,000 miles |
| Recalls | 9 | 0 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 18 MPG | 19 MPG |
| City and highway | 16 and 21 | 17 and 22 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $3,700 | $3,550 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,203 complaints for the Ford Explorer and 638 for the Toyota 4RUNNER. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
Safety recalls on file: 9 for the Ford Explorer, 0 for the Toyota 4RUNNER.