The midsize SUV is a great choice because it comes with ample passenger and cargo space, plus a plethora of safety features. Vehicles such as the 2024 Ford Explorer and the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse also offer great performance and plenty of in-cabin tech.
Let us help you choose your next midsize SUV with this Ford vs Chevy faceoff. We'll see which model offers the more comfortable interior. Then, we’ll consider their performance specifications and explore their standard and optional safety equipment.
You can also test drive the 2024 Ford Explorer at Jim Taylor Ford. Contact our Ruston, LA-based showroom to organize a time and date. Then, you'll see how the 2024 Explorer handles the streets of Ruston, LA.
The 2024 Ford Explorer and the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse are three-row midsize SUVs. However, the 2024 Explorer has a more comfortable seven-seat layout, while the 2024 Traverse squeezes in eight seats. Plus, both models are available with captain chairs instead of a bench seat. These seats can be adjusted independently and have their armrests. Hence, they are great for adding comfort and a more luxurious feel.
Both midsize SUVs have features such as power driver seats and automatic climate control systems. Here, the 2024 Explorer has a tri-zone system for all trims and rear controls. Plus, it offers a power-adjustable front passenger seat and leather upholstery for higher trims. Buyers can also specify a twin-panel moonroof and multi-color ambient lighting for some trims. Many of these features aren’t offered for the 2024 Chevy Traverse range unless you opt for a higher, more expensive trim.
The 2024 Explorer and the 2024 Traverse come with standard Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®. They also provide Bluetooth® hands-free and wireless audio streaming for all trims. Furthermore, the 2024 Explorer has a B&O premium sound system for most trims except the base. The 2024 Traverse doesn’t offer this feature. However, it does have a standard 11-inch digital gauge cluster. Meanwhile, higher trims of the 2024 Explorer have a 12.3-inch digital cluster.
The 2024 Explorer also includes an overhead console with a sunglasses case for all trims. Also available for any trim is a lockable safe deposit console vault. The 2024 Chevy Traverse doesn’t have this secure storage feature.
The 2024 Explorer can accommodate 18 cubic feet of cargo with its third row in place. This is a little less than the 2024 Traverse, but that’s because the Traverse is a longer vehicle. Cargo capacity can be augmented via split-folding third-row seats in the 2024 Explorer. Higher trims come with a power-folding third row for added convenience. The second row can also be folded if necessary.
The 2024 Ford Explorer range has two turbocharged engines depending on trim choice. There’s a 300-hp, 2.3-liter 4-cylinder unit with 310lb-ft at the lower end of the range. Higher trims have a 400-hp, 3.0-liter V6 engine that can make 415 lb-ft. Regardless of engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission is standard. On some trims, you can manually select gears through paddle shifters.
Ford offers the 2024 Explorer in rear-wheel drive form, but four-wheel drive is available for any trim. Moreover, all trims get Ford’s Terrain Management System™. The system offers modes such as Normal, Trail, Slippery, Sport, Tow/Haul, and Eco. Four-wheel drive models get a Deep Snow/Sand mode as well. The 2024 Explorer also gets Side-Wind Stabilization as standard. This system helps the driver maintain control at higher speeds during crosswind conditions. Some trims also include all-terrain tires and suspension optimized for off-road conditions.
The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse only comes with a 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This 328-hp engine can provide up to 326 lb-ft of torque. An 8-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive are standard. All-wheel drive is available. There are some trims with off-road enhancements as well.
The 2024 Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds if the model has the 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine. It also comes with Trailer Sway Control, which is great if you're a novice at towing. The standard towing capacity is 5,300 with the 2.3-liter engine. Meanwhile, the 2024 Traverse is only rated to tow a maximum of 5,000 pounds.
Every 2024 Ford Explorer gets Ford’s CoPilot360™ safety technologies suite. Standard features include automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and lane departure warning features.
Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts are also included, as is adaptive cruise control. Buyers can also choose an active parking assistance system. The 2024 Traverse does offer a suite of safety features in the Chevy Safety Assist..
The 2024 Ford Explorer wins our midsize SUV faceoff. It’s an impressive vehicle that will provide you with a powerful engine and advanced safety features. To explore owning or leasing a 2024 Explorer, talk to us at Jim Taylor Ford in Ruston, LA. We’ll help you get a great deal on a 2024 Explorer.
