With three rows of seats and plenty of storage space, the Ford Explorer and Chevy Traverse are two smart options for families in the Alexandria, Pineville, and Castor Plunge, LA, areas. So, which one has what you're looking for in your next SUV? Hixson Ford Alexandria put this 2021 Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse comparison together to help you decide.
Performance Specs
The 2021 Ford Explorer gives you lots of options under the hood. From a turbocharged engine that accelerates like a sports car to an efficient hybrid powertrain, there's something for all drivers. Its most exciting option is a 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 that gets up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
If you plan on hitting the road for long drives and family road trips, you'll be interested in the 3.3L Hybrid V6 powertrain. It delivers up to 318 horsepower, while also getting an EPA-estimated 27 city and 29 highway MPG.
On the flip side, the 2021 Chevy Traverse doesn't offer as much power or a hybrid option. In fact, it doesn't offer any options. It's only available with a 3.6L V6 that gets up to 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Not only does this engine fall short of the Explorer's powertrain options, but with an EPA-estimated 18 city and 27 highway MPG, it needs to stop and fill up more often too.
Capability
The 2021 Ford Explorer uses that power to help you haul heavy cargo and get through tough driving conditions. For starters, its 5,600-pound towing capacity when properly equipped can help you hitch a trailer, a camper, or a couple of jet skis to your SUV.
On top of its impressive towing capacity, the Explorer is also available with Intelligent 4WD. This versatile drivetrain works with the standard Terrain Management System™ to make your SUV even more adaptable. You'll enjoy a stable drive in any condition with seven selectable drive modes, including:
- Trail
- Slippery
- Deep Snow/Sand
- Tow/Haul
The Chevy Traverse is available with all-wheel drive and comes standard with the Driver Mode Selector, but with only four modes to choose from, it's not as adaptable. It's also not designed to carry as much cargo. Its towing capacity tops out at 5,000 pounds when properly configured.
Safety Features
Any SUV you're going to trust with your family must keep them safe. The 2021 Ford Explorer gives you peace of mind with a strong frame, Personal Safety System™, and Ford Co-Pilot360™. Ford Co-Pilot360™ comes standard in every trim and helps prevent accidents with the following driver-assistive features:
- BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert
- Lane-Keeping System
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency braking
- Auto High-Beam Headlamps
- Rear View Camera
The Chevy Traverse comes with a Rear Vision Camera, but other than that, it doesn't include any intelligent safety features. While similar driver-assistive features are available, they don't come standard on every trim level like they do in the Explorer.
Test Drive a Family Friendly SUV
From its standard safety features to its more versatile drivetrain, the Ford Explorer is the clear choice for families in the Alexandria, Pineville, and Castor Plunge, Louisiana, areas. Visit Hixson Ford Alexandria to get behind the wheel and take a test drive.
If you're looking for a reliable SUV for your family, Hixson Has It: Has new culture, a new attitude, and an easier way. Contact us to learn more about our 2021 Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse comparison or schedule a test drive.