There’s no question that America is crazy for sport utility vehicles, or SUV for short. SUVs have quickly become the vehicle of choice for families, as well as adventure-seeking singles and couples.
SUV drivers report liking the generous interior space, cargo capacity, and a commanding driving position above other traffic. That’s not to mention the all-wheel or four-wheel drive that some models offer, safely transporting drivers through snow and over unpaved roads. Within the SUV genre, two excellent examples exist in the 2024 Ford Explorer and the 2024 Chevy Traverse, so which is more worthy of being your next vehicle? Let’s take a look.
Key Takeaways
- Both of these highly competent mid-size SUVs seat at least seven passengers or a portion of that seating can be converted to cavernous cargo room.
- The 2024 Explorer has eight different trim levels with something for every driver’s needs, including the rugged Wilderness model, which sports raised suspension, tow hooks, and skid plates for off-road adventures.
- Only the 2024 Explorer is available with a V6, and turbocharged, no less. Its 400 horsepower is a full 62 horsepower more than Chevy can muster.
- One of the 2024 Traverse’s most striking features must be its gigantic 17.7-inch center-mounted touchscreen that’s standard on every trim level, even the base LS.
Interior and infotainment
Both the 2024 Ford Explorer and 2024 Chevy Traverse are three-row, midsize SUVs. The Explorer seats seven passengers and typically, so does the traverse. However, some Traverse trim levels squeeze in an extra eighth passenger.
That might seem impressive in theory, but in reality it’s a little cramped since the Traverse’s rear wheels result in a narrow third row that’s a tight squeeze for three people.
When it comes time to stow that third row seating down for extra cargo capacity, Ford has thoughtfully provided an electrically-powered folding mechanism on upper trim levels of the 2024 Explorer.
As far as infotainment, the majority of Explorers have an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch vertically oriented screen available with top trim levels. On the other hand, almost every 2024 Explorer except for the Base trim comes with a rockin’ 12-speaker stereo from Bang & Olufsen.
One area where the Explorer must concede to the Traverse is that the latter comes standard with a simply massive 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen. Otherwise, Chevy offers similar accouterments as the competition, such as an available Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless charging pad. To be fair, we think there’s pros and cons lurking inside the cabins of both of these midsize SUVs.
Powertrain and towing
The base engine for the 2024 Explorer is the venerable 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder that’s seen in a few other Fords, such as the sporty Mustang. And with good reason — it makes 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque.
If you really want to get the kids to soccer practice in a hurry, select the optional 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6, which cranks out a whopping 400 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. Regardless of engine type, all 2024 Explorers come with a sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. Denizens of snowy climates or dirt roads will appreciate the optional all-wheel drive system.
Powertrain selection for the 2024 Chevy Traverse is much less diverse. Actually, there’s only one engine available: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder making 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. That’s coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission that propels the front wheels. Like the Explorer, all-wheel drive is optional.
Being that SUV owners are likely to do some trailer towing, it’s nice to know that a properly equipped 2024 Explorer can tow 5600 pounds, while the Traverse is slightly lagging with a 5000 pound rating, assuming the optional towing package is selected.
How do the Explorer and Traverse compare on price?
The least expensive 2024 Chevy Traverse is one with the LS trim level, which starts at $39,495, while the most expensive is the sporty RS at $55,595.
While the Traverse only offers buyers four different trim levels, the 2024 Ford Explorer has a dizzying eight trim levels to choose from, starting with the “Base” level at $38,455. From there, the off-road oriented Timberline costs $51,025, while the luxurious Platinum edition begins at $57,310.
Note that all prices listed for both SUVs include any mandatory destination fees.
Stop in to decide which Explorer is perfect for your or your family.
The 2024 Explorer does have a slightly lower price of entry than the Traverse, but what will really resonate with buyers is the diversity with which it can be configured. The Explorer truly has a package for every taste from practical to outdoorsy. Pop in to Banner Ford of Mandeville today to let our team of Ford specialists help you navigate the plethora of equipment, test drive it, and take it home with great terms.