The 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2025 Chevy Traverse offer three rows of spacious seating, solid tech features, and plenty of power. However, the Traverse leans into spacious comfort and everyday practicality, while the Explorer stands out with its dynamic performance and multiple powertrain choices. Let’s break down what sets these SUVs apart so you can find the right fit for your needs.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- While the Traverse has more power in its standard engine, the Explorer has greater towing capacity.
- The Traverse is the larger of the two SUVs.
- The Traverse and Explorer’s trims are nearly equal in price.
2025 Ford Explorer vs. 2025 Chevy Traverse: Engine Power, Performance & Capability Compared
The Explorer features two engine options:
- A standard 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder, generating 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
- An optional 3.0L twin-turbo V6 delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
The Chevy Traverse’s standard engine is more powerful than that of the Ford Explorer. It features a 328 hp 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 326 lb-ft of torque.
The Traverse has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, but the Explorer wins this round—it can tow up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped.
The Explorer also gets better fuel economy—its 2.3-liter engine gets about 20 mpg/city, 29 mpg/highway, and 24 mpg combined. Meanwhile, the Traverse boasts 20 mpg/city, 27 mpg/highway, and 23 mpg combined.
Comparing Interior Space, Tech, and Comfort of the Ford Explorer vs Chevy Traverse
The sporty Explorer is smaller than the Traverse—its cargo space is 85.8 cubic-feet, while the Traverse’s is 98 cubic-feet, cargo space in the Traverse dwarfs Explorer’s 85.8 cubic-feet. It accommodates up to eight, unless you include second-row captain’s chairs, which reduces its capacity to seven. Seven is the highest number of passengers the Explorer can fit.
The Traverse infotainment screen is 17.7-inches, with a standard 11-inch driver information center and features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Explorer’s infotainment touchscreen tops out at 13.2-inch touchscreen on higher trims with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster available. The Explorer also adds the Ford Digital Experience this year which is a Google based infotainment interface that allows you to better interact with your phone while driving or waiting in the car pickup line.
Which is the More Affordable SUV? Trim Levels and Pricing Comparison Between the Ford Explorer and Chevy Traverse
The 2025 Explorer is a little less inexpensive than the Traverse, particularly in its lower trims.
- Active: $41,220
- ST-Line: $45,980
- Platinum: $53,120
- ST: $56,800
In comparison, the 2025 Chevy Traverse’s trim prices are:
- LT: $41,995
- Z71: $48,995
- High Country: $54,995
- RS: $56,795
Prices are effective as of March 31, 2025.
Which SUV Should You Choose—the 2025 Ford Explorer or 2025 Chevy Traverse?
If you want a roomy, family-friendly SUV, the Traverse is a solid choice—but if you’re after more power, greater towing, and better fuel economy, the 2025 Ford Explorer is the way to go. With multiple engine options and plenty of capability, it’s built for both daily drives and weekend adventures. Stop by Karl Flammer Ford and see it today!