Caught between the 2023 Ford Explorer and the Chevy Traverse? Both of these three-row crossover SUVs know how to deliver family-friendly comfort and capable cruising. Lucky for you, our comparison guide is here to help you figure out which model best fits into your life.
Key Takeaways
- The Traverse is the slightly more spacious option, with an extra seat and a bigger cargo hold.
- The Explorer treats you to a more powerful ride, perfect for drivers who want a sportier option.
- With the Explorer Timberline trim model, you can travel the furthest into off-road terrain.
- Thanks to its rear-wheel-drive platform and hearty powertrain options, the Explorer can tow more than the Traverse.
Interior Space: 2023 Chevy Traverse
With up to eight seats and a little extra cargo space, the Traverse is the best option for families who want to make every square inch count. Behind the Traverse’s rear seats, you can fill 23 cubic feet of cargo space with your family’s carry-on items. The standard lineup includes a few comfort features, like tri-zone automatic climate control and cushy cloth seating. Move up the Traverse’s six trim models (LS, LT Cloth, LT Leather, RS, Premier, and High Country) to enjoy greater luxury, with available upgrades like heated and ventilated front seats or a panoramic sunroof.
The Explorer might not be as spacious, but it has the most impressive standard lineup. Each of its eight trim models (Base, XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, Limited, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum) delivers tri-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a power liftgate. The Explorer offers a similar list of upgrades to the Traverse, so you can make the cabin as luxurious as you wish. Ford’s crossover seats six or seven passengers (depending on whether you select a second-row bench seat or captain’s chairs) and offers 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats.
Everyday Power: 2023 Ford Explorer
If you’re shopping for strong acceleration and self-assured handling, choose the Explorer. Depending on which Explorer trim model you select, there are three engine options available. The strongest of the bunch, the turbocharged V6, leaves the Traverse in the dust with 400 horses. All-wheel drive is optional no matter which engine you select.
Choose from these 2023 Explorer powertrain options:
- Standard turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 hp, 310 lb-ft)
- Optional turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- Optional 3.3L V6 hybrid (318 hp, 322 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
Although its only engine option never gets anywhere near 400 horses, the Traverse still delivers pretty quick acceleration around town. And Chevy’s midsize crossover also offers all-wheel drive, enhancing performance during your winter travels.
Every 2023 Traverse has the same engine:
- 3.6L V6 (310 hp, 266 lb-ft)
- Nine-speed automatic
- Front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
Off-Road Family Adventure: 2023 Ford Explorer
Not only does every Explorer offer all-wheel drive, but you can also upgrade your off-road performance by choosing the Timberline trim model. Designed for maximum adventure, this specialty Explorer adds off-road tuned suspension with added ground clearance, a limited-slip rear differential, and underbody skid plates. The Explorer Timberline even comes standard with sporty all-wheel drive.
You can certainly get a Chevy Traverse with all-wheel drive, which will improve traction on light trails or icy roads. However, this three-row crossover doesn’t offer a special off-road-ready trim model. Nor does it offer upgrades to help you navigate difficult terrain, such as underbody skid plates or off-road-tuned suspension. In fact, the Traverse is probably more comfortable on the pavement.
Max Towing: 2023 Ford Explorer
Thanks in part to its unique rear-wheel-drive setup, the Explorer can tow bigger toys than the front-wheel-drive Traverse. Properly equipped, this Ford crossover tows a trailer weighing up to 5,600 pounds.
However, the Traverse doesn’t trail all that far behind. With the right setup, these Chevys can tow up to 5,000 pounds. As long as your family’s collection of Jet Skis don’t weigh more than that, the Traverse could work for you.
Choose Your Three-Row Crossover SUV
The 2023 Chevy Traverse might offer a slightly bigger cargo hold, but it’s the 2023 Ford Explorer that will give your daily drive more spark. Choose Ford’s midsize crossover for more fun, greater speed, and plenty of interior comfort.