Champion Ford knows vehicles and we all love SUVs, they are convenient and comfortable while offering cargo room as well as plenty of space for passengers. We are especially excited about the new 2022 Ford Explorer. If you are in the market for a midsize SUV, you may be finding yourself trying to decide between the Explorer or the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse. Which is truly the better option for you and your family and lifestyle? So many great features on both of these vehicles, it can be hard to choose. So, let’s take a look at the two side by side and see what stands out. Then come down to Champion Ford, take a test drive and see for yourself.
Quick Specs Comparison
MSRP Price:
- Ford Explorer starting at $35,510
- Chevy Traverse starting at $33,700
Seating Capacity:
- Ford Explorer offers seating for up to 7
- Chevy Traverse offers seating for up to 8
MPG:
- Ford Explorer estimated 20/28 City/Hwy
- Chevy Traverse estimated 18/27 City/Hwy
Engine:
- Ford Explorer has a 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder
- Chevy Traverse has a 3.6L V6
Horsepower:
- Ford Explorer provides 300 HP
- Chevy Traverse provides 310 HP
Cargo Space:
- Ford Explorer offers 87.8 cubic feet
- Chevy Traverse offers 98.2 cubic feet
Towing:
- Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,600 lbs.
- Chevy Traverse can tow up to 5,000 lbs.
Most Notable Differences
The Explorer and the Traverse are similar in many ways. A few of the most obvious differences between the two are that the Explorer is rear wheel drive while the Traverse is front wheel drive, The Traverse can hold 1 more passenger than the Explorer can, and the Explorer is smaller than the Traverse and therefore much more manageable to drive around town. Additionally, the Explorer is available in many more color options than the Traverse is, including a beautiful Forged Green.
Towing and Trailering in the Explorer and the Traverse
For people who find themselves often pulling a trailer or something else, the Explorer is designed to make towing and trailering as easy as possible. With a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,600 lbs. it beats out the Traverse’s maximum of 5,000 lbs. Additionally, the Explorer utilizes AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control to create a powerful trailer sway control system. The trailer sway control selectively brakes and can adjust the engine power to provide extra trailer control when needed, keeping everything stable and giving the driver more control.
Trim Comparisons
Both the Ford Explorer and the Chevy Traverse offer various trim options which can significantly change the desirability of the vehicle with the options included or available. These trims obviously also come with changes to the price tag, sometimes offering more value for the money and sometimes less. Let’s take a quick look at some of the trim options.
Ford Explorer offers eight models:
- Explorer base model starting at $35,510. Comes with many of the Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features, including rear view camera with washer. Also features heated seats and an 8 inch LCD touchscreen infotainment system with SYNC 3 technologies.
- Explorer XLT starting at $38,570. Several options are available on the XLT to customize it as you wish, especially regarding the seating material, colors, exterior options, and sound system. The XLT also comes standard with push-button start, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel which can be heated.
- Explorer ST-Line starting at $45,760. The ST-Line is a sporty option featuring some nice exterior features such as a blackout treatment on headlamps and LED taillamps. Additionally, it comes with a wireless charging pad and a 12 speaker B&O sound system.
- Explorer Timberline starting at $48,320. The Timberline comes standard with Intelligent 4WD rather than the rear-wheel drive which is standard on the previous trims. It is made for off-road adventures with improved ground clearance and steel underbody skid plates.
- Explorer Limited starting at $47,070. This trim provides a little extra in terms of safety with a forward sensing system and front parking sensors. Furthermore, you can upgrade to a 10.1 inch LCD portrait touchscreen infotainment system, and even an optional hybrid engine.
- Explorer ST starting at $49,260. The ST provides a unique sport-tuned independent front and rear suspension drivetrain. It also has a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine with auto start-stop technology.
- Explorer King Ranch starting at $53,630. This special model is designed with an authentic Southwestern feel and details for rugged luxury. It is beautifully crafted with Del Rio heated leather seating with lasso-perforated inserts in all the rows and has a 400-hp V6 engine.
- Explorer Platinum starting at $52,375. First class luxury is the goal with the Platinum trim with exclusive interior designs and fabrics and the options for all the bells and whistles.
Chevrolet Traverse offers five models:
- Traverse LS starting at $33,700. The LS is the Traverse’s base model. It has the standard Chevy Safety Assist technologies and tri-zone automatic climate controls.
- Traverse LT starting at $36,200. A step up from the LS, the LT offers a power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated exterior mirrors, and fog lamps. You can also have the option of switching the second row from bench seating to captain’s chairs for a little added comfort but bringing the number of passengers from 8 to 7.
- Traverse RS starting at $44,200. Sportier than the other models, the RS has black accents all over the exterior and 20-inch dark-painted aluminum wheels. Adaptive cruise control is also added at this level.
- Traverse Premier starting at $46,600. The Premier offers an upgraded infotainment Plus system with navigation and an 8 inch diagonal HD color touchscreen placed in a very easily accessible location on the center panel. There is also a Safety Alert Seat installed for additional accident prevention.
- Traverse High Country starting at $51,200. The High Country is the top of the line for the Traverse with all the luxuries. A Dual SkyScape two-panel power sunroof and high quality perforated leather-appointed seat trims make it a comfortable and luxurious ride. Enhanced automatic emergency braking and rear pedestrian alert systems are included for additional safety measures.
Safety Features in the 2022 Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Traverse
Both the Explorer and the Traverse come equipped with many of the industry-leading safety features such as standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist, standard automatic emergency braking, and more. Unfortunately, the Traverse does have some of the advanced driver-assistance aides limited to only the top two highest-priced models while the Explorer offers most as either standard or at least available as optional add-ons at most levels.
So…Ford Explorer or the Chevy Traverse?
Midsize SUVs are so convenient in today’s world. The Ford Explorer and Chevy Traverse both have a lot to offer and ultimately it comes down to what you are looking for that would best fit your lifestyle. The Ford Explorer is a comfortable and beautiful vehicle, which is smaller than that Traverse and therefore easier to drive around town. It also is designed for towing and can haul more than the Traverse. With the Timberline model, off-road adventures are a breeze. There is so much that makes both vehicles great, but we suggest you come down and test drive a 2022 Ford Explorer here at Champion Ford. We know you will love it.