2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs Ford Explorer

Ford and Chevrolet don't just compete in any ordinary car market - they go head-to-head for domination of the midsize SUV segment. The 2022 Traverse from Chevy or Explorer from Ford offer seven passengers plenty of interior space, plus a fully loaded list of standard features to explore! However, these two titans bring different strengths, so buyers need to weigh up their pros and cons before picking out a winner.

 

The Powertrain

The 2022 Chevron Traverse rolls off the production line with a 310-horsepower V6 engine, providing punchy acceleration both in town and on highway roads. Drivers can choose between front or all-wheel drive for an even more confident driving experience.

As for its cousin, the Explorer SUV also delivers impressive performance from its turbocharged 2.3L four cylinder - producing 300hp plus to cover daily duties with ease and satisfaction! With either rear wheel drive of AWD options available across this range it's clear that drivers are spoilt when selecting their new adventure companion.

With the 2022 Ford Explorer, drivers have a choice between three powertrain options and can tailor their ride to fit any need. Go all out with the turbocharged V6 that puts down an impressive 400-horsepower while still being able to hit 415 lb-ft of torque, or go for efficiency by opting in on the Limited Hybrid model offering 318 horsepower using its innovative hybrid system. Don't forget about those wanting performance – they are provided sport tuned suspension as well as red brake calipers along with high performing brakes in The High Performance Package upgrade.

Fuel economy numbers for the 2022 Traverse come in at 18mpg in the city and 27mpg on the highway. Upgrading to all-wheel drive will mean those numbers drop to 17mpg city and 25mpg highway. These are average numbers for the segment of the market.

Explorer offers a wealth of efficiency options, including numerous powertrain combinations. Drivers can enjoy up to 28mpg highway with the four-cylinder engine in rear-wheel drive, while an all-wheel drive configuration yields slightly reduced fuel economy. For those looking for more powerful performance, V6 models offer 18mpg city and 24 or 26 mpg on the highway depending on whether they are coupled with front or all wheel drive configurations respectively. Finally, hybrid versions provide unbeatable combined estimates of 27 mpg for superior savings at every pump.

With the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse and Explorer, you can tow more than ever before. Whether it be boats or camper trailers, these powerful models offer a 5,000 pound towing capacity for the former and even greater hauling potential with up to 5,600 pounds of capability on the latter.

For drivers who seek adventure off the beaten path, the Ford Explorer Timberline trim level is an ideal choice. Equipped with four-wheel drive and skid plates for rugged terrain, this model also offers a torque sensing limited slip differential to provide maximum grip on uneven surfaces. A robust suspension further supports its off-road capabilities, making it perfect for those outdoor explorations that call your name.

The warranties of the 2022 Traverse and the 2022 Explorer are identical. Buyers will receive limited comprehensive coverage for three years or 36,000 miles, and powertrain coverage for five years or 60,000 miles. When looking at the predicted reliability scores from J.D. Power, these two SUVs are neck and neck. The Traverse has a score of 82 out of 100, while the Explorer has a score of 81.

Drivability

Buyers looking for a driving experience like no other will be more than pleased with the 2022 Traverse and Explorer. The Traverse boasts remarkable acceleration on highways, but can feel rather weighty within city limits. For those seeking something sleeker yet still powerful, the Explorer provides superior traction and responsive steering - especially in its ST trim level - creating a truly athletic feeling while cruising down roads or around turns.

Cargo space may end up being a deciding factor for some drivers. The Traverse has 23 cubic feet behind its third row, which makes it one of the most spacious midsize SUVs out there. Comparatively, the Explorer has 18.2 cubic feet. The Traverse offers nearly 58 cubic feet behind the second row and over 98 cubic feet behind the first. Meanwhile, the Explorer has about 48 cubic feet behind the second row and a maximum cargo capacity of just under 88 cubic feet.

The Chevrolet Traverse has seating for up to eight people in its standard configuration, with upper trim levels dropping down to seating for seven. The Explorer, on the other hand, has room for up to seven standard, and upper trims drop down to six. This is another factor that may ultimately help families decide which SUV to choose.

The Traverse offers passengers plenty of room to stretch out - particularly in the front two rows. But those planning on squeezing three adults into the back should consider looking elsewhere as it leaves something to be desired, unlike its counterpart which has cramped legroom and a difficult-to-access third row that are typical for this SUV market segment.

The Traverse and Explorer boast some of the top infotainment features on the market, giving passengers an unparalleled experience. They both come with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, satellite radio and a Wi-Fi hotspot as standard equipment. Drivers will get to choose between a 7 or 8 inch touchscreen for their vehicle; however only two USB ports are included in base level Explorers while those driving around in a Traverse can connect up to six gadgets at once.

With the Traverse, you can upgrade to an 8-inch touchscreen for a more substantial visual experience; however, those looking to really go all out should consider the Explorer's impressive 10.1-inch touchscreen option. Furthering its entertainment abilities is either a 10-, 12-, or 14-speaker sound system from renowned manufacturer Bang & Olufsen and an available rear seat entertainment package – truly making this SUV perfect for any sort of adventure.

These SUVs both come equipped with tri-zone automatic climate control. The Traverse has proximity keyless entry as a standard feature, while this is located on the options list for the Explorer. At the same time, the Explorer comes equipped with a power-adjustable driver's seat on all models, while that is missing from the entry-level Traverse.

If buyers are willing to pay more for feature packages, the Explorer can become quite luxurious. Examples include multicontour massaging front seats and genuine wood interior trim. Tri-diamond leather seats are available as well.

Safety

The 2022 Ford Explorer has been named a "Top Safety Pick+" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. It received the best possible score in all of the main categories tested. Buyers should note that the Explorer got the second-best score for its headlights. Both the standard and optional crash prevention systems got were deemed "Superior."

As for the Traverse, it received the top score in five of the categories it was tested in. It received the second-best possible score when it came to side-crash testing. The IIHS has not yet tested the crash prevention system equipped on the Traverse.

The IIHS also evaluated these two SUVs on their LATCH systems, specifically how easy they are to use. Both got the second-highest score. Interestingly, they both received a "Poor" when it came to seat belt reminders.

Both the 2022 Traverse and the 2022 Explorer are equipped with pedestrian detection, forward automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Automatic high beams are also standard. The Traverse comes equipped with a rear-seat reminder as well in an effort to prevent children or animals from being forgotten in the vehicle.

Ford gives the Explorer several extra standard driver aids. This SUV comes equipped with a driver attention monitor, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. It also has rear parking sensors. Both the Traverse and Explorer have a teen driver feature that is designed to let parents place limitations on the vehicle when they are not at the wheel.

The Explorer and Traverse are two head-turning SUVs equipped with the latest in safety technology. Explore your options to add features like front parking sensors, evasive steering assist, road sign recognition and a rearview mirror camera for the Traverse or blind-spot monitoring on select models of either SUV. With these amazing upgrades you can cruise confidently knowing that adaptive cruise control as well as surround view cameras have got you covered.

Which Has the Best Value?

Shoppers may find the Traverse and Explorer hefty choices when it comes to their pocketbooks. While they both start with similar entry-level models, prices can quickly skyrocket depending on which one you pick - a basic Explorer already clocks in at $245 more than its rival! As for those aiming higher, expect to pay around twelve grand extra if opting for the top of the range explorer as compared to an equally luxurious traverse.

The next thing to consider is how wallet-friendly these SUVs will be as the years go on. Compared to many rivals, the Traverse does well. The entry-level model is estimated to lose approximately $19,500 of value in five years. If the vehicle was driven around 15,000 miles per year, it will cost almost $11,000 in fuel. Maintenance estimates will come in at around $4,100, while repair costs will come in at around $2,000.

With a five-year cost of ownership estimated to be around $17,100 less than the Traverse, the Explorer is leading its class when it comes to affordability. Fuel costs for an entry level model are quite reasonable at under $10k while maintenance and repair estimates stay low too - only adding up to roughly $4200 total. This means that each mile driven in your 2022 Explorer will be just over half as expensive as choosing a comparable option from rival models like the Traverse.

 

Which is Better?

With the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, families can enjoy a roomier second row perfect for older kids and up to 8 passengers. It's also loaded with 6 USB ports - say goodbye to arguments! For those concerned about their wallet, check out Ford Explorer which offers three powertrain options including an optional hybrid that saves on gas money. And don't forget its great entertainment features and higher value retention; this SUV is made for frequent road trippers looking forward long-term investments in family fun.

If space is the main priority, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse is the way to go. Buyers who are after superior fuel efficiency will want to take the 2022 Ford Explorer for a test drive soon.