Are you looking for a three-row mid-size SUV, but aren’t sure which one is right for you? Here we will compare the 2025 Ford Explorer vs 2025 Chevy Traverse and their features like power, space, and pricing which may help you to decide. Let’s take a look!
Key Takeaways:
- The Ford Explorer has more powerful engine options and better fuel efficiency.
- Both the Explorer and Traverse have similar towing capacities.
- The Chevy Traverse has a more spacious interior with more seating and more cargo space.
- Both SUVs start with moderate MSRP and can be upgraded with more luxurious options.
Which SUV is more powerful?
The 2025 Ford Explorer has four available trims: the Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST. The Active, ST-Line, and the Platinum all come with a turbocharged 2.3L 4-cylinder engine that has 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The ST and available Platinum option come with a turbocharged 3.0L V-6 with 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. These trims all have a 10-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard with available all-wheel drive.
The 2025 Chevy Traverse also has four available trims: the RS, Z71, High Country, and LT. All four models come with a turbocharged 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse has front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive. Though the Z71, the better off-road choice, comes standard with a twin-clutch all-wheel drive system.
Let’s talk about fuel-efficiency. Depending on the engine type in the Explorer model you choose, you will get approximately 21 miles per gallon city and 28 mpg highway or with the V6 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Comparatively, the Traverse will give you approximately 20 miles per gallon city and 27 mpg highway, but all-wheel drive lowers that to 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
Which SUV has more towing capacity?
Towing capability won’t really affect your decision when it comes to choosing between the Explorer and the Traverse. Both SUVs can tow up to 5,000 lbs with the standard towing package. The Explorer towing package comes with a hitch, trailer wiring harness, and a trailer sway control system. The Traverse towing package includes a hitch and hitch cover, hitch view (PZ8), trailer wiring harness, trailer sway control system, cooling system, and 220 amp alternator.
Which SUV has more cargo space?
Chevy proudly quotes Edmunds with the phrase, “Space is the name of the Traverse’s game”. Car and Driver says the Traverse is “ among the most cargo-friendly SUVs in the class”. It boasts up to 97 cubic feet of cargo space! The traverse seats seven people, with optional eight seats available. The second row has either captain's chairs or optional bench seating and the third row is more spacious than that in the Explorer, which has been noted as being cramped for older children or adults.
The 2025 Explorer redesigned its dashboard to give more space for passengers. It seats up to seven people. It has 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and 27.9 cubic feet behind the second row. With all rows folded down, you’ll get 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space, which is less than the Traverse, but still ample for most people’s needs.
How much does it cost?
The Chevy Traverse has a moderate price for a mid-size SUV with a MSRP starting with the LT up to the RS ranging approximately $42,195 - $55, 595, depending on the trim and options you choose. You will find the Traverse has a Google-based software infotainment package and many driver assistance and safety features.
Starting slightly lower, the Ford Explorer has an MSRP ranging approximately from $41,380 - $57,835, depending on the trim and options you choose. It comes with the new Ford Digital Experience with access to Google and Amazon, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through compatible devices. It also comes with several standard safety and driver assist features, with optional upgrades for the latter.
Summary:
So, which SUV is best for you? If you’re looking for more engine power, towing capacity, and better fuel efficiency than the Explorer may be exactly what you need. Contact the good folks at Jarrett-Gordon Ford of Davenport to get into your dream SUV today!