Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse

The Ford Explorer offers your choice of two engines so you can select the amount of oomph you require for your daily drives:

• 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine: 300 HP/310 lb-ft of torque
• 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine: 400 HP/415 lb-ft of torque

Meanwhile, there’s no option with the Chevy Traverse. It has but a single 2.5L turbo engine that falls short with just 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. So, whether you need more power or simply want the power of choice, choose the Ford.

Another area where these two models diverge is in how they distribute that power from the engine to the wheels. The Chevy Traverse is equipped with an 8-speed transmission. While impressive on its own, it lacks in comparison to the 10-speed automatic transmission found with the Ford Explorer. More gear ratios provide seamless shifting, enhance performance, and improve fuel efficiency.

Speaking of which, making the most of every drop in your tank is also a consideration for drivers. Although the Traverse offers a standard EPA-estimated 20 city/27 highway MPG rating, you’ll travel farther and longer in between pit stops with the Ford Explorer. It yields up to an EPA-estimated 20 city/29 highway MPG rating.

Having options also opens opportunities, and in the case of these two midsize SUVs, that means plenty of occasions to expand the fun! When properly equipped, either one can easily tow up to 5,000 pounds.So, feel free to hitch up your 25-foot camping trailer, 20-foot wake boat, or pontoon party boat in either the Ford Explorer or the Chevy Traverse.

However, with the Ford, you’ll gain these standard towing features on all Explorer models:

• Trailer Sway Control
• Side-wind stabilization
• BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with Trailer Coverage

Meanwhile, the Traverse forgoes the first two features, and its Blind Zone Steering Assist doesn’t include trailer coverage. So, you may find towing easier with the Explorer—and may enjoy greater peace of mind, too.

The names of these vehicles—Explorer and Traverse—clearly indicate they’re not content to confine themselves to the pavement. They’re both crafted to head off-road into the rough when you feel so inclined. As such, they come with features designed to improve performance and tackle whatever type of terrain you might come across. Still, the Ford Explorer’s minimum ground clearance of 7.6 inches surpasses the Chevy’s 6.7 inches.

The Ford Explorer and the Chevy Traverse each offer Selectable Drive Modes, although the Explorer’s standard Terrain Management System™ has up to seven modes, including:

• Normal
• Trail
• Slippery
• Sport
• Tow/Haul
• Eco
• Deep Snow/Sand (on 4WD models)

Once again, the Traverse is found to be lacking. It has far fewer modes and is less equipped to handle (almost) any conditions you encounter along the way.

With three rows of seating, you can easily seat up to seven riders, and folding seats make it simple for passengers to access the second and third rows. As the driver, your comfort is paramount. The Traverse includes a driver’s seat that can be positioned eight ways, which the Explorer exceeds with its 10-way power driver seat. In the Explorer, you’ll also feel embraced by the available multicontour massaging seats . Different massage settings help you relax by soothing tired or tense muscles. No such feature is available in the Traverse.

Even with a full house, everyone will enjoy their preferred temperature. Both models provide standard tri-zone electronic automatic climate control , ensuring a cozy ride regardless of where you’re seated. Additionally, you can choose an available Panoramic Vista Roof® in the Explorer or an available panoramic sunroof in the Traverse. Let in natural light and the sun's warmth, or enjoy sky views by day and stargaze at night.

The Explorer and the Traverse are ready to help you and your fellow travelers stay connected and engaged for every mile. In addition to standard intuitive and interactive touchscreens sized in the double digits, they both offer standard or available:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
• Wireless charging pad
• Wi-Fi hotspot

Your devices will remain fully powered, and you can stay in touch no matter where you roam.

Since a playlist always makes every drive more enjoyable, get ready to belt out your favorite tunes in your version of car-aoke. The Ford Explorer and the Chevy Traverse each offer premium audio systems to improve the sound quality.

The available Bose system in the Traverse features 12 speakers, although the Explorer takes this up a few notches. Its available B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® features 14 speakers including a subwoofer. So, if you'd like every note to be crystal clear, you'll want to choose the Ford.