Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse & Toyota Highlander
Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse and Toyota Highlander: Compare Midsize SUVs in Lodi, WI
The Explorer is one of Ford's longest continuously running nameplates (behind the F-Series and Mustang). It was also among the initial vehicles to popularize the modern SUV era--a testament to its well-rounded capability. Today, the Ford Explorer remains one of the segment's most appealing models, offering comfortable and capacious accommodations, potent performance, plentiful practicality, and abundant amenities.
While there's no shortage of midsize three-row crossovers to choose from, the Ford Explorer offers a complete package that stands out in the class. To show you what makes the Explorer a great pick for your DeForest drives, here's a look at how it compares in a few key areas to two prominent competitors, the Chevy Traverse and Toyota Highlander.
Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse
Ford Explorer
Chevy Traverse
- The Ford Explorer is propelled by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine making 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. While the Chevy Traver's 3.6-liter V-6 makes slightly more horsepower (310), it generates considerably less torque (266 lb-ft). Additionally, the Explorer's 10-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel-drive layout, and standard trailer-sway control enable a standard max tow rating of 5,300 pounds. The Traverse has a base tow rating of only 1,500 pounds, requiring optional equipment to attain its 5,000-pound maximum.
- If you're seeking something more energetic to power your Waunakee commute, Explorer ST, King Ranch, and Platinum trims equip a potent 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft). Want something more efficient? Explorer Limited and Platinum trims offer an optional 316-horsepower hybrid powertrain. The Chevy Traverse doesn't offer an engine upgrade.
- The Explorer and Traverse both come standard with advanced safety technologies like forward collision mitigation and lane-keeping assistance. However, the Explorer's base trim also includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, and Driver Alert. The Traverse reserves these features for higher tiers.
- The Ford Explorer comes standard with an 8-inch SYNC 3 touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration. Higher trims get a 10.1-inch infotainment display and a stylish 12.3-inch digital instrument panel customizable to your viewing preferences. The Traverse's 7-inch touchscreen can only be upgraded to an 8-inch display, and a digital gauge cluster isn't offered.
Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander
Ford Explorer
Toyota Highlander
- The Ford Explorer offers numerous powertrain options, including a 300-horsepower EcoBoost® four-cylinder, a powerful 400-hp twin-turbo V-6, and a 316-hp V-6 hybrid. The Toyota Highlander's base turbo-four produces 265 horsepower. It also has an optional hybrid powertrain, but with only 243 horsepower, it can't keep up with the Explorer. The Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,300 in its base configuration and 5,600 with available equipment. The Highlander's available towing rating tops out at 5,000 pounds.
- While both models offer ample storage, the Ford Explorer has the edge. With all seats in use, the Explorer retains 18.2 cubic feet for your luggage, gear, or groceries. When your Sun Prairie errands or outings require more cargo space, you can fold all rear seats to access 88 cubic feet. The Highlander comes close, with 16 to 84 cubic feet, but that difference could determine whether or not your stuff fits.
- The Explorer offers unique trim configurations to suit different lifestyles-like the adventure-ready Timberline with all-terrain tires, off-road suspension, a limited-slip rear differential, skid plates, and more. Or, if you want a sportier on-road experience, there's the Ford Performance-tuned Explorer ST. The Toyota Highlander doesn't offer similar specialized variants.
Shop the Ford Explorer near Prairie du Sac
Reach out to Bushnell Ford to learn more about the Ford Explorer and its configuration options, available financing opportunities, and how you can order one to fit your Wisconsin lifestyle. If you'd like a closer look at any of the SUVs in our new Ford inventory, we welcome you to visit our Ford dealership in Lodi for a test drive. It will be our pleasure to assist you.
How can we help?
* Indicates a required field
-
Bushnell Ford Inc.
205 S Main Street
Lodi, WI 53555
- Sales: (608) 592-3276
Loading Map...