2021 Chevy Traverse vs. 2021 Ford Explorer

If your New Braunfels family’s two-row SUV is starting to feel a little cramped, you may be ready to step up to a midsize three-row model. There’s a seemingly endless array of options in San Antonio, but budget-minded shoppers often end up comparing Ford vs. Chevy models like the 2021 Chevy Traverse vs. Ford Explorer. Northside Chevrolet helps you determine whether the Traverse or Explorer is a better fit for your life, below!

Chevy Traverse vs. Ford Explorer: Overall Value

The new Chevy Traverse makes it easier to stick to your budget with a starting MSRP of $29,800 for the baseline Traverse L trim. The top-tier trim, the Traverse High Country, starts at $50,900 MSRP. Comparatively, the 2021 Ford Explorer starts at $32,225 MSRP for its entry-level trim, and tops off its lineup at $54,480 MSRP for the top-tier model.

Not only is the 2021 Traverse more affordable than the 2021 Explorer, but it also offers more value with a longer corrosion warranty.

2021 Chevrolet Traverse Warranty:

• Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 36-month/36,000-mile warranty
• Powertrain Warranty: 60-month/60,000-mile warranty 
• Roadside Assistance: 60-month/60,000-mile warranty 
• Corrosion Warranty: 72-month/100,000-mile warranty 

2021 Ford Explorer Warranty: 

• Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 36-month/36,000-mile warranty
• Powertrain Warranty: 60-month/60,000-mile warranty 
• Roadside Assistance: 60-month/60,000-mile warranty 
• Corrosion Warranty: 60-month/unlimited miles warranty

Traverse or Explorer: Interior Space

When you step into the Traverse interior, you’ll find lots of space for you and your passengers to get comfortable during trips to Schertz. As many as eight passengers are accommodated in the Traverse, while the Explorer can only seat seven. Additionally, there’s over 10 cubic feet more cargo space in Chevy’s midsize offering. Compare the Chevy Traverse vs. Ford Explorer dimensions in detail, here:

2021 Chevrolet Traverse Dimensions

• Length: 204.3 inches 
• Wheelbase: 120.9 inches 
• Front/Rear Track: 67.3/67 inches 
• Height: 70.7 inches 
• Passenger Volume: 157 cubic feet 
• Front Headroom: 41.3 inches 
• Rear Shoulder Room: 62.2 inches
• Max. Interior Cargo Volume: 98.2 cubic feet
• Seating Capacity: 8 

2021 Ford Explorer Dimensions

• Length: 198.8 inches 
• Wheelbase: 119.1 inches 
• Front/Rear Track: 66.9/66.9 inches 
• Height: 69.9 inches
• Passenger Volume: 153 cubic feet
• Front Headroom: 40.7 inches
• Rear Shoulder Room: 61.9
• Max. Interior Cargo Volume: 87.8 cubic feet 
• Seating Capacity: 7

Chevy Traverse vs. Ford Explorer: Engine Output

Comparing Ford vs. Chevy performance specs always makes for an exciting competition, but this is yet another area where the Traverse pulls ahead of the Explorer with its stronger V6 engine. Compare engine performance, transmissions, and drivetrains of the Traverse vs. Explorer to see which intrigues you:

• Engine: The 2021 Chevy Traverse gets a 310-hp 3.6L V6 that achieves 266 lb-ft of torque, helping it achieve impressive tow ratings. The 2021 Ford Explorer engine is a smaller 2.3L 4-cylinder that only offers 300 hp, as well as 310 lb-ft of torque.
• Transmission: A 9-speed automatic transmission is found in the Traverse, while a 10-speed automatic accompanies the Explorer. 
• Drivetrain: The Traverse is equipped with standard FWD, while the Explorer gets standard RWD. Both SUVs offer an upgrade to AWD. 

Check Out the 2021 Chevy Traverse at Northside Chevrolet

Feeling confident about your choice between the Traverse or Explorer? If you’d like to continue your research on the Traverse, check out our feature on the 2021 Traverse vs. GMC Acadia. Or, visit our showroom located near Boerne to compare Chevy SUVs like the Traverse vs. Equinox in person!