Introduction
The Explorer, now a mid-size SUV in its sixth generation, is one of the most popular and recognizable Ford vehicles on the road today. It was so popular that two years after it was first introduced, the Ford Explorer XLT starred alongside Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, and Sam Neill in Jurassic Park, which debuted in 1993. Yes, the Ford Explorer is truly the only known SUV ever to outrun a T-Rex on film.
Decades later, the new 2025 Ford Explorer is more popular than ever. These models were recently refreshed, facelifted, and launched with improvements set to impress. The Chevy Traverse is a fantastic full-size crossover SUV that is ranked high, rated as safe, and competes with the Ford Explorer in most categories.
Let’s look at two popular SUVs and compare features, space, performance, and more in this useful side-by-side comparison of the 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2025 Chevy Traverse.
Key Takeaways
- The Ford Explorer, a mid-size SUV, is slightly smaller than the full-size Chevy Traverse.
- The 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2025 Chevy Traverse are EPA-rated SUVs, getting an estimated 27 MPG on the highway.
- The new 2025 Ford Explorer is refreshed, improved, and ready to take your family to everyday fun.
What’s the difference between the 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2025 Chevy Traverse?
Size is the main difference between the 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2025 Chevy Traverse. The 2025 Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV and the 2025 Chevy Traverse is a full-size SUV. Although both are the same height, the 2025 Chevy Traverse is longer, wider, and has a longer wheelbase.
Size is a factor for these SUVs with three rows of seating because it means more passenger space. The 2025 Chevy Traverse accommodates eight passengers, while the 2025 Ford Explorer comfortably fits up to seven people with room for bags and cargo. Although the 2025 Ford Explorer is smaller than the 2025 Chevy Traverse, it has more powerful engine options, which could equate to better performance.
Other differences include more engine options, infotainment touchscreen sizes, and available features that vary from trim to trim for each model lineup.
What can I expect from a 2025 Ford Explorer engine?
Your new 2025 Ford Explorer, available in four trims (Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum), has either the 2.3L Turbocharged, Direct-Injection EcoBoost Inline-4 engine or the 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine.
When your new 2025 Ford Explorer is properly equipped with the Class III Trailer Tow Package, which is standard for every trim, you can tow up to 5,000 pounds. When it comes to fuel efficiency, both the 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2025 Chevy Traverse are rated by the EPA as getting at least 27 MPG on the highway.
Is my new 2025 Ford Explorer upgradeable and customizable?
When you buy the base model Ford Explorer Active or the top-of-the-line Platinum, you get an upgradeable and customizable mid-size SUV with modern design details inside and out.
Choose between two available engines depending on trim, add four-wheel drive (4WD), and one of several packages that take your new Ford Explorer to the next level of luxury and capability, making these SUVs customizable and upgradeable in more ways than one.
Upgraded, Customizable, Power Unleashed
Unleash the power and unlock the customizable features and packages that take your new 2025 Ford Explorer to the next level of comfort, convenience, and capability.
We have new Ford Explorer mid-size SUVs with three rows of seating, powerful, efficient engine options, and more. Visit Jarrett Scott Ford, Central Florida’s best dealership, to shop for your next new vehicle. We inspect every used vehicle and offer a price match guarantee you'll love.