If you’re looking for your next full-sized SUV, look no further than the 2023 Ford Explorer vs the 2023 Chevy Traverse. Both vehicles offer great perks and versatility for any sized family. In this comparison article, we’ll help you decide if one outweighs the other.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Both vehicles give plenty of space to each passenger when they are full.
- The Traverse is the bigger of the two vehicles.
- Three engine options on the Explorer and does a better job transmitting power to its wheels than the Traverse.
PERFORMANCE AND GAS MILEAGE: 2023 EXPLORER
The Explorer and the Traverse are highly capable at their first job: transporting passengers. But with all that extra space. Extra power is needed, and that is where the Explorer starts to pull ahead. The torque of the Explorer has much more power behind it at 310 lb-ft compared to the Traverse’s engine at 266 lb-ft. making the Explorer more efficient with its power usage.
The Explorer also comes with three engine options that include:
- 300-hp, 2.3-liter, Inline 4 Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
- 318-hp, 3.3-liter, V6 Cylinder Engine (Gas/Electric Hybrid)
- 400-hp, 3.0-liter, V6 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
The standard engine for the Traverse is a 3.6 L V6 Cylinder Engine getting 310 horsepower. And while the standard engine for the Traverse may slightly beat the Explorer, it does not come with many options. The Explorer’s engine options allow for drivers to pick what best works for them, and the mid-tier engine is a hybrid, meaning gas money is saved in the long run. This is great for anyone making lots of trips with lots of passengers. Even without a hybrid engine, the Explorer is all around getting better miles per gallon with an estimated range of 18-25 MPG in the city and 22- 28 MPG on the highway compared to the Traverse at 17 -18 and 25 -27 MPG respectively.
WHICH SUV OFFERS THE BETTER UTILITY?
Each has their perks, so it comes down to what you value in an SUV and what you are using it for most. The Traverse is an eight person seater, while the Explorer seats seven. Traverse is technically bigger than the Explorer resulting in more interior space. Also, because of its size, the Traverse has the slight advantage in cargo space allowing for 157 cu-ft of stage space, just six cubic inches more than the Explorer.
If seating alone isn’t a concern for you, the functionality of the Explorer expands past what the Traverse is capable of. The Explorer has a maximum towing capacity that is 600 pounds more than the Traverse. The Explorer also takes off road functionality into mind, where the Traverse is really meant for open roads and city drives. For starters, the Explorer has higher ground clearance. The four-wheel drive of the Explorer makes it more advanced at driving on rugged terrain compared to the simpler all wheel drive system of the Traverse. The Explorer also has the Timberline trim with even more focused features on off-roading.
TECHNOLOGY & SAFETY: SLIGHT EDGE TO THE 2023 EXPLORER
When it comes to other features these vehicles include, they are packed with things that are beneficial to old drivers and new drivers. Both include standard features such as USB ports, hot spots, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Bluetooth music streaming. The infotainment system in either vehicle works well for the driver’s needs, and neither has an advantage over the other. Heated seats and steering wheels are also included. They both are technologically efficient vehicles, helping drivers do their part on the road while consistently working for them. The Explorer does win the advantage, as the 2022 model earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award which is the highest rating that can be awarded to a car. The Traverse didn’t receive any accolades.
WHICH SUV IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
The 2023 Ford Explorer is going to be a perfect fit for anyone needing a capacity of seven passengers because of its all-around reliability and added features that the Traverse doesn’t carry. Whether you're off-roading or cruising down the highway, the Explorer works hard while keeping your gas budget in mind.