2020 Ford Explorer vs Chevy Traverse

You and your family deserve a vehicle that delivers comfort and capability. The 2020 Ford Explorer and Chevy Traverse are two midsize SUVs that do just that. While both can make your journey feel far more worthwhile, only one can earn that coveted spot in your driveway.

Hickory, Valdese, and Brookford shoppers can use this car comparison to see how these SUVs measure up against each other. Study the specs and reach out to us at Cloninger Ford of Hickory for more!

2020 Explorer vs Traverse: Performance

An SUV is only as powerful as the engine under its hood. The 2020 Explorer and Traverse produce plenty of power and can get up to speed in seconds. The Traverse runs on a V6 engine that kicks out up to 310 horsepower for a dynamic drive.

However, the Explorer has a wider range of engine options—and more powerful ones. The EcoBoost® V6 in the Explorer ST is tuned to serve up 400 horsepower. This performance-inspired SUV uses twin turbos to deliver stronger off-the-line acceleration than ever before!

If you need to tow a small boat or trailer, these SUVs have the muscle to do it. The Traverse can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Explorer does even better: It tows up to 5,600 pounds.

Efficient Adventure: MPG Fuel Economy

When you hit the roads in your next  SUV, you want one that goes farther on less fuel. Fewer stops at the pump mean savings for you, and the Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Traverse work hard to deliver.

The Traverse sees up to an EPA-estimated 18 city/27 highway MPG. While these are solid numbers, the Explorer sees up to an EPA-estimated 21 city/28 highway MPG with the base EcoBoost® 4-cylinder. You’ll see better figures from the Ford SUV.

Keep in mind, though, that the Explorer is available with a Hybrid V6. This efficient engine produces up to an EPA-estimated 27 city/29 highway MPG, far exceeding the Traverse fuel economy. Unfortunately, the Traverse does not offer a hybrid powertrain at all.

Outstanding Technology: Fresh Features

The 2020 Explorer and Traverse have long been noted for their technology’s simplicity and ease of use. However, the Explorer sees a full redesign this year, giving it fresher features than the 2020 Traverse.

Chief among them is the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. This customizable screen comes standard on the Platinum and ST trim levels. Show the driving information that’s most important to you, whether it’s your speed, fuel economy, or the distance you’ve covered. The Traverse lacks this feature.

The Chevy Traverse does get the Infotainment 3 system for 2020. Still, the Ford Explorer has a SYNC® 3 system with a game-changing vertical touchscreen. This available screen is 10.1 inches and can be used as a split screen to show multiple features at once!

Is the Ford Explorer or Chevy Traverse a Better Buy?

Hickory, Valdese, and Brookford shoppers can expect solid performance, comfort, and connectivity from the 2020 Ford Explorer and the 2020 Chevy Traverse. When it comes down to it, though, the redesigned Explorer offers features that go far beyond its competitors.

Want more power, better efficiency, or more advanced technology? The Ford SUV delivers on all fronts. Take a test drive here at Cloninger Ford of Hickory and see whether the Explorer is just what you need!