The 2025 Ford Explorer and 2025 Chevy Traverse are two top contenders for drivers searching for a versatile and capable midsize SUV. But which one comes out ahead? We put these rival family haulers in a head-to-head comparison to find out which one would best benefit Jesup drivers. Shoppers can find a great selection of the new Ford Explorer at Woody Folsom Ford Inc. in Baxley
Performance and Capability
The Ford Explorer flexes its muscle with two potent EcoBoost engine options. Active and ST-Line models get a 300-horsepower 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. At the same time, the athletic Explorer ST packs a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 pumping out an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque.
In contrast, every Traverse uses the same 2.5-liter turbo-four making 328 horsepower. Off-road adventurers from Ludowici will appreciate that the Explorer offers capable four-wheel drive across all trims, plus a rugged Active model with skid plates, off-road shocks, and all-terrain tires for enhanced rough-terrain capabilities. The Traverse's all-wheel drive system can't match the Explorer's off-road prowess.
Towing and Hauling
When properly equipped, the Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds, making it easy to bring along a boat, camper, or trailer on your next getaway from Lyons. The Traverse maxes out at 5,000 pounds, giving the Explorer a 600-pound advantage.
The Explorer also offers helpful towing features like trailer sway control, a tow/haul mode, and a Class III trailer hitch receiver with a four-pin wiring harness. Whether you're hauling gear for a weekend camping trip out of Blackshear or towing a small boat to the lake, the Explorer is up to the task.
Premium Features and Technology
The Explorer aims to impress travelers with its premium amenities. The range-topping Platinum trim spoils passengers with perforated leather seating, genuine wood trim, multi-contour front seats with Active Motion massage functionality, a 14-speaker B&O sound system, and a dual-panel moonroof.
High-tech features like the available 10.1-inch portrait touchscreen with SYNC 4, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless charging pad, and 360-degree camera system elevate the Explorer's modern appeal.
While the Traverse High Country offers some luxury touches, it can't match Explorer Platinum's first-class accommodations and cutting-edge technology.
Bold Style Inside and Out
The Explorer's sleek exterior exudes confidence, with an eye-catching grille, sculpted lines, distinctive LED lighting, and a muscular stance. Lyons shoppers craving a sportier look will be drawn to the blacked-out ST-Line and performance-inspired ST trims with unique wheels, grilles, and exterior accents.
Hazlehurst drivers can choose from a range of stylish wheel designs up to 21 inches. Chevy's largest SUV sports handsome styling of its own, but its more understated appearance may leave some shoppers wanting the Explorer's bolder, more aggressive look.
Advanced Safety Features
The Explorer leads the way when it comes to protecting your precious cargo, with its comprehensive standard and available safety tech. Every Explorer has Ford Co-Pilot360, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, lane keep assist, and automatic high beams.
Available upgrades like adaptive cruise control with traffic sign recognition, evasive steering assist, reverse brake assist, and Active Park Assist 2.0 provide even greater protection. The Explorer also boasts superior crash test ratings, earning a Five-Star overall safety rating from NHTSA.
While the Traverse offers similar safety features, the Explorer's more advanced technologies and better crash performance give it the edge in this critical area.
Spacious and Family-Friendly
With three rows and seating for up to seven passengers, the Explorer remains a top pick for active families.
Second-row captain's chairs are available for easier access to the back and added comfort. In contrast, the standard E-Z Entry second-row seats make it a breeze to get in and out of the third row. The interior is thoughtfully designed with versatile split-folding seats, a hands-free power liftgate, convenient PowerFold third-row seats, and generous cargo capacity topping out at 87.8 cubic feet.
The Traverse is similarly accommodating for up to eight. But the Explorer's additional family-focused features make it the more convenient and versatile choice. And the Traverse misses out with no captain's chairs.
While both of these accomplished SUVs have much to offer, the 2025 Ford Explorer has the clear advantage in this comparison thanks to its stronger performance, superior towing capabilities, premium style and features, advanced safety technologies, and unmatched versatility.
Experience the Explorer's superiority by visiting Woody Folsom Ford Inc. to browse our inventory and take this ultimate family vehicle for a test drive.
