2023 Ford Explorer vs 2023 Chevrolet Traverse

2023 Ford Explorer Overview

If you’d like to purchase or lease a new midsize SUV, the team at Stivers Ford Montgomery recommends comparing the 2023 Ford Explorer vs 2023 Chevrolet Traverse. These are two of the most popular options on the market and deliver refined SUV experiences at affordable prices. The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse does have a reputation for being one of the most affordable options available, but the difference in starting MSRP is not that great especially when you consider all of the extra advanced tech that Ford includes in its base equipment package. The 2023 Ford Explorer is available in eight trims: Base, XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, Limited, ST, King Ranch and Platinum. The Traverse, on the other hand, is available in six configurations: LS, LT Cloth, LT Leather, RS, Premier and High Country.

Exterior - Ford Dealer Serving Montgomery

Both the 2023 Ford Explorer and 2023 Chevrolet Traverse are midsize SUVs with four doors and a rear liftgate, but the Traverse is a bit bigger overall. The Explorer has an 8.2-inch ground clearance, 119.1-inch wheelbase and a 198.8-inch length, which is about 16.6 feet. The Traverse has a 7.5-inch ground clearance, 120.9-inch wheelbase and a 205.9-inch length, which is a bit more than 17 feet. LED headlamps and 18-inch alloy wheels are standard equipment. Chevrolet offers 20-inch wheels. Ford offers 20- and 21-inch wheels. Ford includes a power liftgate, which is locked behind the LT Leather trim with the Traverse, and both automakers include roof rails beyond the base trim.

Interior - 2023 Ford Explorer in Montgomery

The 2023 Ford Explorer base trim provides seating for seven. Beyond the base trim, second-row captain’s chairs are included, and seating is reduced to seven. The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse is similar, but markets itself as offering seating for eight and seven. We find the Ford assessment to be more practical. The Explorer is also notable in that it provides 2 inches more front legroom. It also provides more second-row legroom by about a half inch, and third-row legroom is greater in the Traverse by about an inch. Both models offer comparable cargo areas. Chevrolet offers a bit more on paper, but be mindful that such measures aren’t standardized. Be sure to make this comparison in person if it’s important to you.

Ford Explorer Mechanical specs

Rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are available for both models. Chevrolet opts for a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Explorer has a 10-speed automatic. Another notable difference when comparing the 2023 Ford Explorer vs 2023 Chevrolet Traverse is that Chevrolet opts for a V6 for its standard and only engine. Ford goes with a turbocharged four-cylinder instead. It delivers similar performance and the same max towing rating of 5,000 pounds but is more fuel efficient. For those who want a sportier experience, Ford also offers a turbo V6 that makes more than 400 horsepower.