The 2023 Ford Explorer and Chevy Traverse are solid competitors, with both three-row midsize crossover SUVs bringing their A games. Which is best for you and your loved ones? Our comparison guide is here to scrutinize each option.
Key Takeaways
- The Traverse (starting at $34,520) costs a little less than the Explorer (starting at $36,760).
- For comfort and convenience, we like the Explorer. It comes standard with more features than the Traverse!
- Tall families will prefer the Explorer, which offers a little extra legroom in both the front and rear seats.
- For the sportiest performance, check out the Explorer’s stronger engine options!
Starting Price: 2023 Chevy Traverse
The 2023 Traverse comes at a slightly lower price than the 2023 Explorer, starting at $34,520. If you want the Ford Explorer, on the other hand, it’s going to cost you at least $36,760.
Comfy Cruising: 2023 Ford Explorer
To travel in style, choose the 2023 Explorer. This crossover not only delivers roomy, supportive seating and a silky smooth ride, but it’s also loaded with standard features. Items like tri-zone automatic climate control and LED headlights help make your everyday drive comfy and convenient. And every Explorer includes a smartphone-compatible infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. If you’re after an even more luxurious Explorer, you’ve got it! Moving up the trim levels means more luxury, with available features that include leather-clad seats and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.
The 2023 Traverse is also a comfy cruiser, with supportive seating and standard tri-zone climate control. It even comes with a similar infotainment setup, though the central touchscreen is only 7 inches. However, the Traverse doesn’t come standard with as many conveniences. For example, if you want a power-adjustable driver’s seat or a power liftgate, those features cost extra. Like the Explorer, the Traverse offers a collection of trim models. For luxury features like leather-trimmed seating and heated front seats, simply move up the trim levels!
Passenger Space: 2023 Ford Explorer
When it comes to passenger space, these two crossover SUVs come within inches of one another. However, the Explorer gives you a bit more legroom, in both the front and back seats. If you need all the legroom you can get, choose Ford’s midsize crossover!
On the other hand, if you need all the cargo space you can get, then the Traverse might be the better option. Behind its rear seats, you’ll find 23 cubic feet for your gear. The Explorer has 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place.
Punchy Power: 2023 Ford Explorer
For the strongest possible performance, look to the Explorer. Not only does this SUV come standard with a 300-horsepower engine, but it also offers a couple of upgrades. The hybrid V6 not only helps you get up to speed quickly, but it also earns up to 27 mpg combined! For maximum speed, choose the turbocharged V6. But all three engine options have earned their reputations for punchy power and swift acceleration.
There are three engine options available for the 2023 Explorer:
- Turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 hp, 310 lb-ft)
- Turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- 3.3L V6 hybrid (318 hp, 322 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
The Chevy Traverse comes standard with a little more power than the base Explorer. But it doesn’t offer any nifty engine options, so you can’t choose more power (or more power and greater efficiency). However, we can say that the Traverse will impress you with its quick acceleration! Depending on configuration, the Traverse earns up to 21 mpg combined.
The 2023 Traverse is only available with one engine:
- 3.6L V6 (310 hp, 266 lb-ft)
- Nine-speed automatic
- Front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
Your Family SUV
The 2023 Chevy Traverse isn’t bad as far as three-row midsize crossovers go, but it’s no 2023 Ford Explorer. Choose this family-friendly Ford for more power, comfy cruising, and even a little extra legroom!