If you're on the hunt for a family-friendly three-row SUV, the 2025 Ford Explorer and 2025 Chevy Traverse are well-regarded for their style and comfort. While both offer spaciousness and plenty of tech, the Explorer stands out with its sportier feel and powerful engine options. But if you’re still unsure which is best for your family, we’ll break down the details of both below!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The 2025 Ford Explorer and 2025 Chevy Traverse are nearly equally priced, but the Explorer’s mid-level trims are less expensive.
- While the Traverse has greater engine power in its standard engine, the Explorer has an optional engine that can beat those numbers, and it can tow more weight.
- The Traverse is the larger of the two SUVs, making the Explorer a bit more economical on fuel.
2025 Ford Explorer vs. 2025 Chevy Traverse: Engine Power and Performance Compared
The Explorer’s 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine generates 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque; the Traverse’s one and only engine is more powerful—it is a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 328 hp 2.5L and 326 lb-ft of torque.
However, it is the only engine available for the Traverse. The Explorer’s optional engine—a 3.0L twin-turbo V6—beats the Traverse by a country mile, with 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
And the Ford Explorer wins the competition when it comes to towing—while the Traverse has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, the Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped.
The Explorer is slightly more efficient on gas than the Traverse. Its 2.3-liter engine gets about 20 mpg/city, 29 mpg/highway, and 24 mpg combined, while the Traverse boasts 20 mpg/city, 27 mpg/highway, and 23 mpg combined.
Interior Space, Tech Features and Comfort Compared in 2025 Ford Explorer vs. 2025 Chevy Traverse
At 98 cubic-feet, cargo space in the Traverse dwarfs Explorer’s 85.8 cubic-feet. If you have several passengers, the Traverse is the obvious choice. It accommodates up to eight passengers, unless you choose with second-row captain’s chairs, which brings that number down by one. The Explorer, by comparison, only ever seats seven people.
At 17.7-inches, the Traverse’s infotainment screen is larger and accompanies an 11-inch driver information screen. Google built-in with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard features.
The Explorer’s infotainment touchscreen tops out at 13.2-inch touchscreen on higher trims with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster available. It features Ford’s Digital Experience with Google, Amazon, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2025 Ford Explorer and 2025 Chevy Traverse Trim Levels and Pricing Comparison
The Explorer is generally inexpensive, particularly in its lower trims—in fact, some of its mid-level trims are decidedly less expensive than the Chevy Traverse’s offerings. They are:
- Active: $41,220
- ST-Line: $45,980
- Platinum: $53,120
- ST: $56,800
In comparison, the 2025 Chevy Traverse’s trim prices
- LT: $41,995
- Z71: $48,995
- High Country: $54,99
- RS: $56,795
Prices effective as of March 31, 2025.
2025 Ford Explorer vs. 2025 Chevy Traverse: Which Three-Row SUV Is Right for You?
Both SUVs are great for families, but the 2025 Ford Explorer brings more power, better driving dynamics, and plenty of tech. If you want an SUV that’s both practical and fun to drive, the Explorer is the better pick. Contact us today for more information!