2021 Ford Explorer vs. 2021 Chevy Traverse

As you wonder, what's different between the 2021 Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse, it's important to look at the specs. You might also have asked yourself what is comparable to a Chevy Traverse, or is there a car similar to a Ford Explorer? Because these two models are so similar, it's vital to compare the Ford Explorer to the Chevy Traverse. We will look at the specs, pricing, trim levels, interior design, cargo capacity, seating, and more to help you decide to buy the Ford or Chevy SUV.

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2021 Ford Explorer Price & Trims

One of the biggest differences between the Chevy Traverse vs. Ford Explorer models is the price. Even though the MSRP of the Explorer is slightly higher, you are going to enjoy more performance and features from this Ford SUV. Here are the six available trim levels.

• Base: $33,470
• XLT: $35,245
• Limited: $46,250
• Limited Hybrid: $50,600
• ST: $53,850
• Platinum: $55,725

2021 Chevy Traverse Price & Trims

While the starting price of the 2021 Chevy Traverse looks tempting, you must understand that it isn't comparable with the base Explorer model. Still, there are seven trim levels to choose from.

• L: $29,800
• LS: $32,900
• LT Cloth: $35,400
• LT Leather: $39,100
• RS: $43,600
• Premier: $45,800
• High Country: $50,900

2021 Ford Explorer Interior Design & Cargo Space

Choose a six- or seven-passenger configuration with your Explorer. Plus, the Ford Explorer cargo dimensions measure 18.2 cubic feet behind the back row, 47.9 cubic feet behind the second row, and a total of 87.8 cubic feet when the seats are folded down. Standard features include an eight-inch touch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, a six-speaker sound system, four USB ports, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and satellite radio.

2021 Chevy Traverse Interior Design & Cargo Space

Choosing a Traverse vs. Explorer requires a look inside the cabin. The Chevy SUV has room to hold seven or eight occupants. There are also 23 cubic feet of room behind the back seats, 57.8 cubic feet behind the second row, and 98.2 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Standard features include Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, six USB ports, Bluetooth, a seven-inch touch screen, plus a Wi-Fi hot spot. While this might be enough for some people, many owners find themselves spending more to ensure they get what they need.

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2021 Ford Explorer Exterior Design & Dimensions

The 2021 Ford Explorer measures 199″ L x 79″ W x 70″ H and comes with ten paint colors to choose from. The big deal is the Sport Appearance Package, which can be added to the XLT. It adds gray 20-inch wheels, a dual chrome exhaust, plus unique grille and hood lettering.

2021 Chevy Traverse Exterior Design & Dimensions

The 2021 Chevy Traverse dimensions are 204″ L x 79″ W x 71″ H. This Chevy SUV comes with 18- or 20-inch wheels, plus ten exterior paint colors. There are no special appearance packages available with the 2021 Chevrolet Traverse.

2021 Ford Explorer Engines & Powertrain

You have a total of four engines to choose from with this Ford SUV. The base option is the 300-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder. There are also two twin-turbocharged V6 engines. However, the big deal is the hybrid powertrain with a 3.3-liter V6 engine and an electric motor to produce 318 horsepower. All four engines include a ten-speed automatic transmission. The most fuel-efficient powertrain is the hybrid, which is expected to go 500 miles on the 18-gallon tank. When properly equipped, plan to tow up to 5,600 pounds with the new Explorer.

2021 Chevy Traverse Engines & Powertrain

There is only one power option with the new Traverse, a 310-horsepower V6. While this is slightly more powerful than the base Explorer, it can't compete with the other engines. This motor pairs with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Chevy doesn't offer a hybrid Traverse at this time. The best Chevrolet Traverse mpg is available with FWD, rated at 18/27 mpg, while AWD models drop to 17/25 mpg. You are going to get better fuel economy with some Explorer models, which is important if you want to save money at the pump. Unlike the Ford Explorer, this Chevy Traverse can only tow up to 5,000 pounds.

2021 Ford Explorer Safety & Reliability

Deciding between the Chevy Traverse vs. Ford Explorer requires looking at the safety ratings. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 Ford Explorer with a perfect five-star rating. Drivers gain access to numerous safety features, some of which are in the Co-Pilot 360 bundle. These include pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, Ford MyKey, pre-and post-collision, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high-beam headlights, a rearview camera, lane keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring.

2021 Chevy Traverse Safety & Reliability

The 2021 Chevy Traverse also earned a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA. However, there is something lacking from this Traverse. As you look at the Ford Explorer or Chevy Traverse, it's clear that this model includes far less standard safety equipment. In fact, you will only get the rear-seat reminder, a rearview camera, the buckle-up reminder, and the Teen Driver system that lets you set speeds plus audio volume limits. To gain the additional safety functions, you either need to add some packages or upgrade the trim level.

Buyer's Decision: Ford Explorer or Chevy Traverse?

How do you choose between Chevy SUVs vs. Ford SUVs? You must start at the beginning. First, we see that the price is slightly higher with the Explorer models, but we also note that the engine options and hybrid model make it worth the additional cost. Plus, the Explorer is smaller and more agile than the comparable Traverse. The rear-wheel-drive configuration helps this Ford SUV tow more than the Chevy, making it a better workhorse as well. The 2021 Ford Explorer seems to be the clear-cut winner for most drivers, especially when a hybrid model is desired.