Which three-row crossover SUV has more of what you want in a family hauler, the 2024 Ford Explorer or the 2024 Chevy Traverse? To help you choose, our comparison guide takes a side-by-side look at these midsize crossovers’ best qualities.
Key Takeaways
- Inside, the Explorer treats you to plush, supportive seating and a healthy list of standard comfort features.
- The newly redesigned Traverse delivers cutting-edge tech features!
- For the sportiest ride, you need the Explorer.
- In spite of all its power, the Explorer also delivers the thriftiest ride!
Everyday Comfort: 2024 Ford Explorer
When it comes to long-term comfort, the Explorer has the best seats. They’re nicely contoured, with plush padding, offering the perfect balance of cushion and support. The Explorer also comes standard with more features, including a power-adjustable driver’s seat and a power liftgate.
If the Explorer has the edge for long-term comfort, the Traverse offers big families one extra seat. Thanks to a three-passenger third-row bench, the Traverse can seat up to eight passengers, or seven with second-row captain’s chairs. (The Explorer seats seven or six passengers respectively.)
Even if the Explorer comes standard with more features, both crossovers can improve your on-road luxury with optional features. Either crossover is available with upgrades like heated front seats or leather upholstery! However, only the Explorer offers a front-seat massage, compliments of Ford’s Active Motion technology.
Tech Options: 2024 Chevy Traverse
After a redesign for the 2024 model year, the Traverse returns loaded with modern tech features. Inside, you’ll enjoy a digital gauge cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a quick-reacting, user-friendly infotainment system with a 17.7-inch central touchscreen. You can also upgrade the Traverse with extras that include a wireless smartphone charger and Chevy’s semi autonomous driving system, Super Cruise.
A big update is expected for the 2025 Explorer, when Ford will update its three-row midsize crossover with a similar infotainment setup, including its newer SYNC 4 system. Until then, though, the Explorer soldiers on with the SYNC 3 setup, which includes standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and an 8-inch touchscreen. A 10.1-inch touchscreen is available as an upgrade, along with a 14-speaker B&O premium sound system, wireless smartphone charger, and built-in navigation.
Rugged Performance: 2024 Ford Explorer
Whether you want faster acceleration or stronger towing capabilities, you’ll get it from the Explorer! With its available turbo V6, the Explorer is at its quickest, turning up the heat with 400 horses and 415 pound-feet of torque. Properly equipped, the Explorer can also tow more than most midsize crossovers, maxing out with a trailer that weighs 5,600 pounds.
The 2024 Explorer powertrain specs include:
- Turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 hp, 310 lb-ft)
- Turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
Although the Traverse only offers one engine option, it does provide slightly more power than the Explorer’s base option. And Chevy’s midsize crossover can also tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is average for this segment. Like the Explorer, the Traverse is available with all-wheel drive, which not only creates a sportier performance on a curvy road but also offers improved off-road capabilities.
The 2024 Traverse powertrain specs include:
- Turbo 2.5L four-cylinder engine (315 horsepower, 317 pound-feet of torque)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
Best Fuel Economy: 2024 Ford Explorer
If you’re shopping for at-the-pump savings, check out the Explorer first! With its base powertrain, including the turbocharged four-cylinder engine, this midsize crossover earns EPA ratings of up to 24 mpg combined (21 city/28 highway). With its incredibly powerful turbo V6 engine, the Explorer earns up to 21 mpg combined (18 city/26 highway).
Unfortunately, the Chevy Traverse doesn’t deliver the same balance of power and fuel economy. Its only available engine, which is about as powerful as the Explorer’s base option, earns EPA ratings of up to 21 mpg combined (18 city/26 highway).
Your New Midsize SUV
Although the Traverse caters to a family of eight with its extra seat, the Explorer is the better overall option! That’s especially true if you’re shopping for maximum comfort, premium power, and the thriftiest performance.