For those who are currently seeking a new SUV, you’re probably well aware of just how many options there are on the market today. SUVs are a great choice for families on the go, just one reason why they’re so popular among car buyers nationwide! While it’s great to have a few different SUVs to choose from, the multitude of options can make it difficult to determine which one is best for you. That’s why we here at Columbine Ford will be helping you narrow down your selection by comparing two of the market’s top contenders side by side. The first SUV we’ll be reviewing is the 2022 Ford Explorer, and the second is the 2022 Chevy Traverse. These two vehicles might seem similar at first glance, but our goal is to illustrate the various features that make each one unique. Continue reading down below to learn which SUV is right for you!
For the 2022 model year, the Ford Explorer features an impressive eight trim levels, with two possible engine options depending on your desired model. The standard powertrain option is a 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-4 rated at 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. New for 2022, you can choose whether or not to include the available stop-start system based on your preferences. The second available engine is the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 rated at 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Both engines pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and rear-wheel drive comes standard. For added capability, the Timberline comes with all-terrain tires, skid plates, tow hooks, and a limited-slip rear differential. When properly equipped, the Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds.
For the Chevrolet Traverse, the 2022 model year is welcoming a lineup of six trim levels, with just one powertrain option for the whole range. This means that each and every trim level of the 2022 Chevy Traverse comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, which cranks out 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Also standard on the Traverse is a 9-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive. In terms of capability, the Traverse falls a bit short of the Ford Explorer. For example, while the Explorer features a 5,600-pound maximum towing capacity, the Traverse is only capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds. The Traverse also lacks the kinds of off-road features you’ll find on the Timberline.
The Ford Explorer is a full-sized three-row SUV with seating available for up to seven passengers! Starting with the base trim level, you’ll find standard features like LED headlights, and tri-zone automatic climate control. Moving up to the mid-range models, you’ll find features such as 20-inch wheels, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system. On the Limited trim, you’ll find features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and ambient interior cabin lighting. The Kind Ranch features elegant wood accents, a 12-speaker sound system, and massaging front seats, while the Platinum rounds out the lineup with features like 21-inch wheels, adaptive headlights, and more!
The baseline Chevy Traverse trim level is the LS, which starts you out with standard features such as LED headlights, 18-inch wheels, and tri-zone climate control. Like the Explorer, the Traverse is a three-row SUV. However, it offers the option to add a second-row bench, allowing space for eight passengers. While this may seem like an asset, it can actually make the interior feel quite cramped. Some standard safety features for the Traverse include lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear parking sensors. On upper trim levels, you can find more advanced features such as heated seats, a 10-speaker sound system, 20-inch wheels, and a panoramic sunroof.
Now that we’ve had the chance to examine the various features of both the Ford Explorer and the Chevy Traverse, it’s time to decide which one is the strongest option of the two. Thanks to its off-road features, superior towing capacity, and upscale interior features, we here at Columbine Ford recommend the 2022 Ford Explorer for anyone seeking a three-row SUV! To get behind the wheel of a new Ford Explorer, you can visit us here at Columbine Ford of Rifle, Colorado, not far from Grand Junction! Here, you’ll be able to see the Ford Explorer in person, and request a test drive with a member of our sales team, so that you can experience all of its features and functions for yourself. Plus we’ll be happy to help answer any questions you might have about the Explorer, or any of our other new models. Shop online, or visit us today at Columbine Ford!
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