The Family SUV Dilemma
The Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Traverse are two of the most popular midsize three-row SUVs on the market, and for good reason — both offer flexible seating, solid cargo capacity, and a wide range of trims to suit different budgets. But they take meaningfully different approaches, and the right choice depends on your priorities.
At a Glance
| Feature | Ford Explorer | Chevy Traverse |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | ~$38,000 | ~$36,000 |
| Standard Seating | 7 | 8 |
| Standard Engine | 2.3L Turbocharged 4-cyl | 2.5L Turbocharged 4-cyl |
| Max Towing Capacity | Up to 5,600 lbs | Up to 5,000 lbs |
| Max Cargo Space | ~87 cu ft | ~98 cu ft |
| AWD Available? | Yes | Yes |
Interior Space & Passenger Comfort
The Traverse has a clear advantage in interior volume. Its cabin feels more spacious, particularly in the second row, and the third row is genuinely more usable for adults on shorter trips. The Explorer's interior is more upscale in feel — materials quality and design are a noticeable step up on mid-to-higher trims — but passengers in the third row will feel more cramped on longer journeys.
For families regularly carrying 6–7 people, the Traverse's roomier cabin is a practical win. For families that only occasionally use the third row, the Explorer's nicer interior may tip the balance.
Performance & Driving Dynamics
The Explorer's turbocharged engine lineup gives it a more responsive, engaging driving experience. It handles more like a car and less like a minivan, which some buyers appreciate. It also offers a higher-performance ST trim for those who want genuine driving excitement from a family hauler.
The Traverse prioritizes smooth, comfortable cruising over sporty dynamics. The ride is softer, which many families prefer for long highway trips — particularly with kids on board.
Technology & Safety
Both vehicles offer competitive modern infotainment systems with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on most trims. The Explorer features Ford's SYNC system, which has improved significantly in recent years. The Traverse uses Chevrolet's infotainment platform with a large touchscreen interface that most users find intuitive.
On safety technology, both offer strong active safety suite options including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring — though availability varies by trim level.
Ownership Costs
Both vehicles sit in a similar insurance and maintenance cost bracket. The Explorer's turbocharged engines can be more costly to maintain over time than naturally aspirated alternatives. The Traverse's simpler, larger-displacement engine may appeal to buyers prioritizing lower long-term service costs.
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose the Traverse if: Maximum interior space, third-row comfort, and value are your top priorities.
- Choose the Explorer if: You want better towing capacity, a more engaging drive, or a more premium interior feel.
Bottom Line
Neither vehicle is objectively better — they serve slightly different family needs. Test drive both and pay close attention to how the third row feels for your family's typical passengers. That experience alone will likely make the decision clear.