The 2021 Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Traverse are so competitive that — at first blush, anyway — you might not know which to choose. Fortunately, our comparison guide is here to save the day so by the end, you’ll know for sure which of these midsize crossovers is right for you and your family.
Power and Performance: 2021 Ford Explorer
The Explorer offers the strongest overall performance, especially if you’re looking to tow a boat or camper. Every Explorer features the same turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 310 pound-feet of torque) and a 10-speed automatic transmission. Properly equipped, this Ford SUV can tow up to 5,600 pounds, and all-wheel drive is always an option if you need help rolling through muddy off-road trails.
Every Chevy Traverse comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine (310 hp, 266 lb-ft) and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Properly equipped, this midsize crossover is also pretty capable, towing max loads of up to 5,000 pounds.
Comfortable Cruising: 2021 Ford Explorer
One of the Explorer’s best-loved features is its smooth performance, which of course is an important part of a comfortable drive. The Explorer’s three rows of seating are perfect for family hauling, with generous head- and legroom for your whole crew. We also give this Ford crossover SUV high marks for luxury options, which include multi-contour front seats with massage settings and premium leather upholstery.
The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse won’t give you a massage, but it’s undeniably roomy and comfortable. The Traverse is also known for its ability to soak up bumps in the road, maintaining high levels of passenger comfort over broken pavement.
Infotainment: It’s a Tie!
Both midsize crossover SUVs come standard with the necessary infotainment features, including easy-to-use touch-screen interfaces and modern smartphone integration. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity is standard on both crossovers, so you can use your phone’s voice controls or access apps via each model’s respective touch screen.
Standard Safety: 2021 Ford Explorer
The 2021 Ford Explorer dishes up all the usual safety aids at no extra cost. That means features like Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Monitoring, and Forward Collision Mitigation actively help every Explorer model avoid danger.
With the Traverse, access to these same features is limited. For example, Forward Collision Warning and Lane Keeping Assist only come standard on the top trim models, and you’ll find a blind-spot monitor on the mid-grade Traverse LT Leather and higher trims.
Your Best Midsize Crossover SUV
While we have lots of good things to say about the 2021 Chevy Traverse, it’s the 2021 Ford Explorer that leads the segment in terms of power, performance, and modern creature comforts. The Explorer is also the best choice for towing a big boat! Drive the Explorer home for the best all-around crossover SUV experience.