Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse: Which is the Superior SUV

Making the right pick between a truck and an SUV can be tough. Both have their pros and cons, and it really comes down to what you need the vehicle for. A truck is probably the better option if you're looking for a vehicle to take off-road or tow a large trailer. However, if you're looking for a comfortable daily driver who can also handle light off-roading, an SUV might be the better choice. To determine which one works best for you, feel free to take note of their pros and cons below. a) When It Comes to SUVs: An SUV is a vehicle that is designed to be versatile and efficient. They are often used as family vehicles because they have plenty of space for passengers and cargo. Some people also use them for outdoor activities such as camping or hiking because they have enough room to store all the necessary gear. The Pros of SUVs More Passenger Seats An SUV offers a great deal of space for passengers compared to other types of vehicles. You can comfortably fit between five and seven people in an SUV. You would have to sacrifice bed space to fit that many people with a truck. Better Maneuvering An SUV is a great option for someone who wants a vehicle that is easier to drive than a truck but is still slightly larger than a regular car. Better Gas Mileage The gas mileage of an SUV can be more favorable than a truck, depending on the size of both vehicles. Some smaller SUVs can also get better gas mileage than regular-sized cars. The Cons of SUVs More Expensive SUVs typically cost more than trucks. The amount you spend on an SUV or truck will depend on the vehicle's size, age, and features. Flipping Danger SUVs have a higher risk of flipping over than other vehicles because of their taller, heavier build. However, many SUVs come with features that help prevent this from happening. Higher Insurance Rates SUV owners typically pay more for car insurance than people with regular-sized cars because they are at a slightly higher risk of flipping and having an accident. b) When It Comes to Trucks: A truck is a great option if you're looking for a versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of tasks. Let us take a look at their pros and cons compared to an SUV. The Pros of Trucks Powerful Engines Truck engines are very powerful and can be even more powerful than engines in other types of vehicles. This is because truck models typically have diesel engine options that can be upgraded. So, even if a truck and SUV come from the same manufacturer, the truck's engine will likely be more powerful. Storage Bed A truck is the best way to move large items from one place to another. If you need to transport furniture, lumber, or power tools, a truck is the perfect vehicle. Towing Capabilities If you're looking for a vehicle that can tow your camper, boat, or trailer, a truck is a great option. Trucks have great towing capabilities, making them a good choice if that is one of your main priorities. The Cons of Trucks Harder to Maneuver A pick-up truck is not the best choice for driving in places with crowded parking lots and narrow streets because it is difficult to maneuver. Deciding Between Seating and Bed Space Trucks are great for hauling things around, but you can't fit as many people in them as you could in an SUV. If you want a truck with more seating, you'll have to sacrifice some of the space in the truck bed. Low Gas Mileage SUVs typically have better gas mileage than trucks. If you're looking for a large vehicle and gas mileage is one of your main concerns, you might want to get an SUV instead of a truck. Conclusion Overall, it is important to choose the right vehicle for your needs. If you need a large vehicle for hauling or towing, a truck is the best option. If you need a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle for city driving, then an SUV is your go-to option. Consider your budget, your driving needs, and the features you want in a vehicle that will tend to all your needs. If you are looking for reliable car dealers in Hickory, NC, look no further than our amazing lineup of cars here at Cloninger Ford of Hickory. We have a wide variety of new and used Ford models for you. We also have a Ford-certified service department, as well as a variety of Ford parts. Check out our online listings for our current available vehicles and their prices.

Shop New Ford SUVs Shop Used Ford SUVs New Ford Special Offers Table of Contents: Ford SUV Size Overview Subcompact & Compact Models Midsize Models Full-Size Models Finding the right SUV comes down to one simple question: how much vehicle do you actually need? Ford's SUV lineup runs the full range, from the trail-ready Bronco Sport to the road-trip-ready Expedition MAX, so there's a genuinely useful answer for almost every type of driver. At Cloninger Ford of Hickory, we work with buyers across western North Carolina every day and know how much difference it makes to be in the right-sized vehicle. This guide walks through Ford's current SUV lineup from smallest to largest, covering cargo space, passenger capacity, and what each model is best suited for. Whether you're navigating Hickory's streets solo or hauling the whole family plus gear to the mountains, the right Ford SUV is in here somewhere. Ford SUV Lineup at a Glance Here's a quick-reference chart of Ford's SUV models organized from smallest to largest: Model SUV Category Passenger Capacity Cargo Volume (Rear Seats Up) Maximum Cargo Volume Ford Bronco Sport Subcompact 5 32.5 cu ft 65.2 cu ft Ford Escape Compact 5 37.5 cu ft 65.4 cu ft Ford Bronco (4-Door) Midsize 5 35.6 cu ft 77.6 cu ft Ford Explorer Midsize 7 18.2 cu ft (3rd row up) 87.8 cu ft Ford Expedition Full-Size 8 20.9 cu ft (3rd row up) 104.6 cu ft Ford Expedition MAX Full-Size (Extended) 8 35.6 cu ft (3rd row up) 121.5 cu ft Now let's take a closer look at each model, starting with the smallest and working our way up. Subcompact & Compact SUVs 2026 Ford Bronco Sport The Ford Bronco Sport is Ford's smallest SUV, and it punches well above its weight class when it comes to off-road ability. Built on a unibody platform with genuine off-road capability, it's the go-to choice for drivers who want something compact enough for city parking but capable enough for a weekend in the Blue Ridge foothills. Key Highlights: Standard all-wheel drive across the entire lineup, with higher trims offering real off-road modes like Mud/Ruts and Sand Available 2.0L EcoBoost engine on Badlands trim producing 250 horsepower GOAT Modes (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) for confident driving across varied surfaces Cargo floor designed with an easy-clean coating and a hands-free liftgate for when your hands are full of trail gear With 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 65.2 cubic feet with the seats folded, the Bronco Sport packs a surprising amount of utility into a small footprint. Singles, couples, and small families who spend weekends outdoors consistently find this one lands right where they need it. 2026 Ford Escape The Ford Escape takes a different approach in the compact segment, prioritizing everyday comfort, fuel economy, and a refined ride over off-road ability. It's a practical, well-rounded vehicle that handles commutes, school runs, and weekend trips without asking much in return. Key Highlights: Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option with up to 37 miles of all-electric range for daily errands Standard hybrid trim available for buyers who want better fuel economy without plugging in Available all-wheel drive for confident handling in North Carolina's variable weather Co-Pilot360 driver assistance technology included as standard equipment The Escape's 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats edges it slightly ahead of the Bronco Sport in raw hauling capacity, and 65.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded covers most practical needs with room to spare. Its comfortable ride, practical interior, and available electrified powertrains make it a popular choice for commuters and small families alike. Midsize SUVs 2026 Ford Bronco (4-Door) The Ford Bronco 4-Door sits in its own category. It's a body-on-frame SUV built specifically for serious off-road use, and Ford didn't cut corners. With removable doors and roof panels, an advanced independent front suspension, and available locking front and rear differentials, it's one of the most capable off-road SUVs Ford has ever produced. Key Highlights: Available Sasquatch Package with 35-inch mud-terrain tires, wide-track Dana axles, and available locking front and rear differentials Capable available 2.7L EcoBoost V6 producing up to 330 horsepower Removable doors and roof panels for an open-air experience on the trail or around town High ground clearance (up to 11.6 inches) and water fording depth up to 33.5 inches The 4-Door Bronco seats five adults with usable rear legroom, and 35.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats handles gear for serious outdoor trips. At 77.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, it covers almost any hauling scenario. Buyers who want an adventure-first vehicle that also functions as a daily driver consistently land on this one. 2026 Ford Explorer The Ford Explorer is one of the most recognized nameplates in the segment, and for good reason. This three-row midsize SUV balances everyday family practicality with enough towing capability and technology to make it genuinely versatile across a wide range of use cases. Key Highlights: Three-row seating for up to seven passengers, with available captain's chairs in the second row Towing capacity up to 5,600 pounds, useful for boats, campers, and utility trailers Available ST performance trim with a turbocharged 3.0L V6 producing 400 horsepower Ford's SYNC 4 infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto With 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row and 87.8 cubic feet with all seats folded, the Explorer handles the reality of busy family life well. It's the right choice for buyers who need a true third row on a regular basis but aren't ready to step up to a full-size body-on-frame SUV. 2026 Ford Expedition The Ford Expedition steps up to a truck-based platform and delivers the kind of capability that families and work-oriented buyers can actually feel. Eight-passenger seating, a twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6, and impressive towing capability put this vehicle in a different league from the crossover-based Explorer. Key Highlights: Twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6 delivering strong performance for towing and highway travel Available towing capacity of up to 9,300 pounds when properly equipped (verify based on model year) Available technology and utility features designed for work sites, road trips, and outdoor adventures Available Stealth Performance Package with a sport-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes Twenty-point-nine cubic feet behind the third row is enough for grocery runs with a full load of passengers, and 104.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded gives contractors, coaches, and road-tripping families serious hauling room. The Expedition handles long highway miles particularly well, with a quiet cabin and a smooth-riding suspension that larger groups appreciate on extended trips. 2026 Ford Expedition MAX The Ford Expedition MAX is Ford's largest production SUV, adding a stretched wheelbase and extended body to everything the standard Expedition already does well. When space is the top priority and you're not willing to compromise, this is the one. Key Highlights: Same twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6 as the standard Expedition, with comparable towing capability 35.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, providing significantly more storage than the standard Expedition Eight-passenger seating with generous space for passengers and gear Extended wheelbase designed for families, travel, and hauling larger loads with confidence At 121.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, the Expedition MAX offers exceptional cargo capacity among full-size SUVs while still seating up to eight people comfortably. Large families, shuttle operators, sports teams, and anyone who regularly moves a lot of people and gear find this the most practical vehicle Ford makes. The extended length is worth noting for parking in tighter urban spots, but for most western North Carolina roads and driveways, it's a worthwhile tradeoff for the additional storage space. Find Your Ford SUV at Cloninger Ford of Hickory Ford's SUV lineup gives you a lot of room to land in exactly the right spot. The Bronco Sport and Escape cover the small-and-efficient end of the spectrum. The Bronco 4-Door and Explorer handle the midsize segment from two very different angles. The Expedition and Expedition MAX bring full-size capability for buyers who need the most space, the most towing, and the most confidence on any road. At Cloninger Ford of Hickory, our team knows these vehicles inside and out. We can walk you through the differences between trims, arrange back-to-back test drives across models you're considering, and help you find the right fit for your budget and your lifestyle. Stop by our Hickory dealership to see Ford's full SUV lineup in person, or give us a call at (828) 374-9538 to schedule your test drive. We're here to help Hickory-area drivers get into the right vehicle the first time.

Shop New Ford Escape Shop New Specials The 2025 Ford Escape is here, and it's better than ever. Cloninger Ford of Hickory is excited to introduce this versatile SUV, designed to cater to the needs of modern drivers. With a range of powertrain options, advanced technology, and a sleek design, the 2025 Escape is set to make a significant impact in the compact SUV market. Discover the 2025 Ford Escape: Design and Innovation The 2025 Ford Escape stands out with its modern and stylish design. Available in vibrant colors such as Space Silver Metallic, Rapid Red, Vapor Blue Metallic, Agate Black, Star White Metallic, and Carbonized Gray, the Escape offers something for everyone. The sleek exterior is complemented by features like a power liftgate, LED light bar, and the panoramic Vista Roof. Power liftgate LED light bar Panoramic Vista Roof 17-Inch Shadow Silver-Painted Aluminum Wheels (Active) 18-Inch Rock Metallic-Painted Aluminum Wheels (ST-Line) Inside, the Escape is equally impressive. The spacious cabin, with 5 seats and a sliding second row, provides up to 65.4 cu ft of cargo space. Explore the Performance and Efficiency of the 2025 Ford Escape The 2025 Ford Escape offers a variety of powertrain options to suit different driving needs. From the efficient 1.5L EcoBoost® I-3 Engine to the powerful 2.0L EcoBoost® I-4 Engine, there's a choice for everyone. For those looking for greener options, the Escape also comes with hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants featuring the 2.5L iVCT Atkinson Cycle I-4 Hybrid Engine. 1.5L EcoBoost® I-3 Engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology (Active): 181 horsepower, 190 lb-ft of torque 2.0L EcoBoost® I-4 Engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology (ST-Line Select, Platinum): 250 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque 2.5L iVCT Atkinson Cycle I-4 Hybrid Engine (Available for ST-Line, ST-Line Elite, Plug-In Hybrid): 200 horsepower combined Intelligent All-Wheel Drive Selectable Drive Modes: Eco, Sport, Slippery, Normal Towing capacity: up to 3,500 lbs with the 2.0L EcoBoost® engine One of the standout features of the Escape is its ability to switch drivetrains effortlessly. . Selectable Drive Modes such as Eco, Sport, Slippery, and Normal allow drivers to tune vehicle performance and handling to road conditions. Unveil Safety and Technology in the 2025 Ford Escape Safety is a top priority in the 2025 Ford Escape. With Ford Co-Pilot360® Technology, drivers benefit from features like a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, and more. Ford Co-Pilot360® Technology Rearview Camera Adaptive Cruise Control Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start SYNC® 4 with 8-Inch Touchscreen (Active) 13.2-Inch Touchscreen (Platinum, ST-Line Elite, Plug-In Hybrid) Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ Compatibility Connected Navigation Wireless Charging Pad (Platinum, ST-Line Elite, Plug-In Hybrid) 4G LTE Wi-Fi® Hotspot In addition to safety, the Escape is packed with advanced technology. Stay connected on the go with the 4G LTE Wi-Fi® Hotspot, allowing up to 10 devices to connect up to 50 feet outside the vehicle. The Comprehensive Trim Line-Up of the 2025 Ford Escape The 2025 Ford Escape offers a variety of trims to cater to different preferences and needs: Active™: 1.5L EcoBoost® I-3 Engine, front-wheel drive with available all-wheel drive, SYNC® 4 with 8-Inch Touchscreen, Ford Co-Pilot 360® Technology, and 17-Inch Shadow Silver-Painted Aluminum Wheels. ST-Line: Adds 8-way power driver seat, black roof-rack rails, flat-bottom steering wheel with red stitching, and 18-Inch Rock Metallic-Painted Aluminum Wheels. ST-Line Select: 2.0L EcoBoost® I-4 engine, all-wheel drive, power liftgate, and heated front seats. Platinum: 2.0L EcoBoost® I-4 engine, remote start system, 13.2-inch touchscreen, ActiveX® trimmed seats, 10-way heated power driver seat, and 19-Inch Machined-Face Aluminum Wheels. ST-Line Elite: Adaptive cruise control, body-color fascia, 10-way heated power driver seat, and 19-Inch Machined-Face Ebony-Painted Aluminum Wheels. Plug-In Hybrid: 2.5L iVCT Atkinson Cycle I-4 Hybrid Engine, adaptive cruise control, connected navigation, and 18-Inch Machined-Face Aluminum Wheels with Magnetic-Painted Pockets. Why the 2025 Ford Escape is the Best Compact SUV for You The 2025 Ford Escape is designed with the modern driver in mind. Whether you're commuting to work, embarking on a road trip, or simply running errands, the Escape offers the perfect blend of comfort, performance, and technology. The available trims—Active, ST-Line, ST-Line Select, Platinum, ST-Line Elite, and Plug-In Hybrid—ensure that there's an Escape for every lifestyle. Don't miss out on the opportunity to own the 2025 Ford Escape. Contact Cloninger Ford of Hickory today to learn more and schedule your test drive. Our team is here to help you find the perfect vehicle to suit your needs and preferences. 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