Three-row SUV shoppers near Granite City often cross-shop the Ford Explorer against other models in the same class before deciding. Comparing engine options, standard safety technology, and interior space side by side makes it easier to see where the Explorer holds an advantage and where competitors are closer. For a full look at what the Explorer offers on its own, start with the Ford Explorer buyer’s guide, or check the Explorer trims hub to see how specific configurations differ. The comparisons below cover how the Explorer stacks up against other three-row SUVs shoppers around St. Louis and Collinsville commonly consider.
Compared to competitors like the Chevy Traverse, the Explorer offers more engine choices, including a standard turbocharged four-cylinder and an available six-cylinder option for buyers who want extra power. The Traverse, by contrast, comes with a single turbocharged four-cylinder engine across its lineup.
Against the Toyota Highlander, the Explorer edges out slightly in highway fuel economy and estimated driving range, though the gap is narrow enough that most drivers near Edwardsville won’t notice much difference in daily use.
Both the Explorer and Traverse come standard with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring, so the core safety technology is similar across the two. The Explorer’s standard suite goes a step further with features like post-collision braking, which the Traverse doesn’t offer.
For buyers who prioritize the latest driver-assist technology, these small differences in standard equipment can matter more than marquee performance specs when narrowing down a three-row SUV near Granite City.
Interior space is close between the Explorer and its competitors, though the Explorer offers a bit more room across the cabin. Compared to the Highlander specifically, the Explorer has a modest edge in front and rear passenger space as well as cargo capacity behind the third row.
That extra room can matter for families near St. Louis who regularly carry passengers in all three rows, or who need to fit larger cargo items like sports equipment or strollers.
The Explorer offers more engine choices, including a standard turbocharged four-cylinder and an available six-cylinder, while the Traverse comes with a single turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
The Explorer has a slight edge in highway fuel economy over the Highlander, though the difference is narrow.
Both offer similar standard safety technology, though the Explorer adds a few extras, like post-collision braking, that the Traverse doesn’t include.
The Explorer offers modestly more cargo and passenger space than the Highlander across most measurements.
Yes, the Explorer offers two turbocharged engine options, more than single-engine competitors like the Traverse.
Weber Ford can walk you through how the Explorer stacks up against other three-row SUVs in person near Collinsville. Call 618-452-5400 to schedule a test drive or ask about current availability.
