2020 Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse
The 2020 Ford Explorer and the Chevy Traverse are both equipped to bring power and cargo space to the modern family and outdoor enthusiasts, but let’s compare these two competitors side by side to see whose features take the cake.
Exterior and Engine
The Chevy Traverse underwent a model redesign in 2018 so this year just includes a few minor upgrades, one of these being a move to the 3.6L V6 engine across the board. This single engine offer doesn’t skimp on power with over 300 hp and a 9-speed automatic transmission. All trim packages offer front wheel drive or all-wheel drive. It also offers up to 5,000 lbs. of towing capacity and cargo space best-in-class of 98.2 cu. ft. Though the cargo space is impressive, it can end up making the Traverse slightly bulky, almost nearing Suburban territory in size.
The Ford Explorer got a major model redesign for 2020 with four separate engine offerings including a 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine with 300 hp, a 3.3L hybrid V6 that offers 318 hp, a 3L EcoBoost V6 with 365 hp, and lastly a high-output 3L EcoBoost V6 that puts out an incredible 400 hp. All engines come standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The towing capacity of the Ford Explorer outpaces the Traverse despite its size difference with a capacity of 5,600 lbs. and 87.8 cu. ft. of cargo space.
Interior and Tech Features
The 2020 Traverse offers up to 8 seats in its roomy interior, though it begins to step out of the midsize SUV arena because of its size. It offers 7 different trim packages, though some of the differences come down to cloth vs. leather seats. The top of the line trim package comes with a hands-free liftgate, Smart Slide seating for easy access to the back bench seat, rear vision camera, forward collision alert, front pedestrian braking, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assistance, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, teen driver technology, and rear park assist.
The dashboard tech includes an 8-inch touch screen display with the Infotainment 3 system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability and USB ports throughout the cabin.
The Ford Explorer offers up to 7 seats, and while it’s one less seat, it makes up for it in roominess. The base model is equipped with an 8-inch display screen set forward for easy access. We applaud the smart use of volume, tuning, and temperature control knobs underneath the infotainment system to make custom adjustments easy. The premier trim package, the Platinum, comes with a 10.1-inch display that favors modern tablets. It offers ApplePay, Android Auto, Alexa, and Waze connectivity. Under the console, you’ll find a wireless charging pad tucked away to offer charging that keeps your smartphone more secure.
The instrument panel is completely digital and houses your fuel gauge, odometer, and speedometer in an easy to read display. Plus, it comes with FordPass connect, which allows you to start the car, schedule maintenance, ask for roadside assistance, and even schedule a time to go ahead and start the car on cold mornings or hot afternoons.
The 2020 Explorer is also equipped with the full safety suite including a hands-free liftgate, push buttons that automatically fold the rear seats, a rear vision camera, forward collision alert, front pedestrian braking, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assistance, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, auto beam headlights that dim automatically when it detects other headlights, and rear park assist.
Test Drive the Winner: 2020 Ford Explorer at Ford of Dalton in Dalton, GA
Both of these incredible SUVs really make a mark, but the 2020 Ford Explorer tops the Traverse in styling, power, towing capacity, tech features, and cargo space for its size. Come in to Ford of Dalton today and test drive the 2020 Ford Explorer!
