Three-row midsize crossovers like the 2022 Ford Explorer and Chevy Traverse are perfect for fun-loving families. Not only do they provide lots of seating and cargo space, but these models can tow big toys and even head down off-road trails. When the weekend is over, the Explorer and Traverse are primed to transport you and your loved ones around in comfort, from work to school and back again. So which of these crossover SUVs should you choose? Let’s take a closer look.
Pure Power: 2022 Ford Explorer
Unlike the Traverse, the Explorer offers three engine options.
- Standard turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque)
- Optional turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- Optional 3.3L hybrid powertrain (318 hp, 322 lb-ft)
As you can see, Explorer shoppers can choose to create a faster, more capable ride with the available V6 engine. Or they can also opt to earn up to 27 mpg combined (27 city/28 highway) with the powerful hybrid powertrain.
There’s only one engine available for the Traverse:
- 3.6L V6 (310 hp, 266 lb-ft)
Its standard powertrain is pretty powerful, but it’s too bad the Traverse doesn’t give you the option of a more powerful or increasingly efficient ride. With its front-wheel drive, the Traverse earns up to 21 mpg combined (18/27 mpg).
Sporty Performance: 2022 Ford Explorer
Thanks to its standard rear-wheel drive, the Explorer is unlike any other three-row midsize crossover on the market. The rear-wheel-drive platform creates a sportier ride on a winding road, and it also allows the Explorer to tow a heavier boat (with tow ratings of up to 5,600 pounds). If you plan to travel down sandy trails or icy roads, you can add all-wheel drive to any Explorer to create a safer ride.
Like most crossovers in this segment, the Traverse comes with front-wheel drive and offers all-wheel drive as an option. Its front-wheel-drive setup isn’t as fun, though we must admit that this crossover feels very sure of itself around tight curves. The Traverse can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Interior Comfort & Convenience: 2022 Chevy Traverse
With a slightly larger cargo hold and an extra passenger seat, the Traverse has the edge. Whereas the Traverse gives you 23 cubic feet of cargo space, the Explorer’s cargo hold is slightly smaller, with 18.2 cubic feet. And the Traverse comes standard with seating for eight, while the Explorer seats a maximum of seven passengers.
However, both three-row crossovers have plenty of potential for luxury. Options for both models include heated front seats, leather upholstery, and tech upgrades like extra USB ports and built-in navigation.
Modern Features: 2022 Ford Explorer
This competition was a very close one, but the Explorer takes the win, thanks to its longer list of standard features. Every Explorer comes standard with a power liftgate and a power-adjustable driver’s seat, two features that are only optional for the Traverse. We also like the Explorer’s friendly infotainment system, which includes a standard 8-inch touchscreen (or optional 10.1-inch touchscreen) and smartphone integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Although the Traverse standard list of features isn’t as long, it does have some overlap with that of the Explorer, including tri-zone climate control and a touchscreen infotainment system. Also, both crossovers come standard with potential lifesavers like forward collision mitigation and blind-spot monitoring.
Your New Three-Row Crossover
The 2022 Chevy Traverse has plenty of appeal, but the 2022 Ford Explorer bests it in almost every way. Choose the Explorer for rich comfort, cutting-edge technology, and a lovable everyday drive.