Navigating the vast landscape of large SUVs can be a daunting task, especially when faced with compelling options like the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse and Ford Expedition. Both contenders boast spacious interiors, powerful engines, and advanced technology features, making the decision a close call. But fret not, discerning driver! This comprehensive guide delves into the key aspects of each SUV, empowering you to confidently navigate your journey towards the perfect choice.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Ford Expedition
| Feature | 2024 Chevy Traverse | 2024 Ford Expedition |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $34,295 | $59,875 |
| Starting Market Average | $38,000 | $63,000 |
| Rating (J.D. Power) | 78/100 | 81/100 |
| TruePrice | Available | Available |
| Leases | Yes | Yes |
| MPG (city/highway/combined) | 18/27/22 (FWD) | 17/24/20 (RWD) |
| Engine | 3.6L V6 | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (standard) <br> High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (optional) |
| NHTSA Overall Safety Rating | 5 Stars | 5 Stars |
| Drive Type | FWD or AWD | RWD or AWD |
| Seating Capacity | 7 or 8 passengers | 8 passengers (standard) <br> 7 passengers (Expedition MAX) |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | Standard | Standard (Ford Co-Pilot360) |
| Basic Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Horsepower | 310 hp | 380 hp (standard) <br> 440 hp (High-Output) |
| Blind Spot System | Available | Standard (Most trims) |
| Surround View Camera | Available | Available |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Available | Standard (Most trims) |
| Remote Engine Start | Available | Available |
| Parking Sensors | Available | Available |
| Engine Details | 3.6L V6, 9-speed automatic | 3.5L EcoBoost V6, 10-speed automatic |
| Electric Motor Details | None | None |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Exterior | Modern, family-oriented | Traditional SUV, bold design |
| Interior | Spacious, practical | Larger, some luxury-focused features in higher trims |
| Audio | Bose premium audio available | Bang & Olufsen premium audio available |
| Infotainment | Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System with touchscreen | SYNC 4 with large touchscreen available |
| Safety | 10 airbags, Teen Driver | 10 airbags, Ford Co-Pilot360 suite |
| Mechanical | Independent suspension | Independent suspension |
| Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles, 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain | 3 years / 36,000 miles, 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain |
| Measurements (length/width/height) | 205.9 in / 80.3 in / 72.4 in | 210 in / 81.6 in / 76.6 in (Standard) <br> 221.9 in / 81.6 in / 76.6 in (MAX) |
| Capacities (passenger/cargo space) | 7 or 8 / 23 cu ft (behind 3rd row), 57.8 cu ft (behind 2nd row), 98.2 cu ft (total) | 8 / 20.9 cu ft (behind 3rd row), 63.6 cu ft (behind 2nd row), 104.6 cu ft (total) <br> 7 / 36 cu ft (MAX, behind 3rd row), 79.6 cu ft (MAX, behind 2nd row), 121.5 cu ft (MAX, total) |
| NHTSA Crash Test Results | https://www.nhtsa.gov/ | https://www.nhtsa.gov/ |
2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Ford Expedition Performance: Power and Efficiency
Engine Options
- Traverse: The Traverse offers a sole engine option – a 3.6L V6 generating 310 horsepower (hp) and 260 lb-ft of torque. This tried-and-tested powertrain delivers ample grunt for everyday driving and highway cruising. Front-wheel drive (FWD) comes standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available for an additional cost. Fuel economy figures are estimated to be 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for FWD models.
- Expedition: The Expedition boasts a wider range of engine options to cater to diverse needs. The base model features a 3.5L V6 engine producing 380 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque, offering ample power for towing and hauling. A twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine pumping out a formidable 400 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque is available on higher trims. Both engines pair seamlessly with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and AWD comes standard across the entire Expedition lineup. Fuel economy varies depending on the engine, with the base V6 achieving an estimated 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, while the twin-turbo V6 sees slightly lower figures at 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway.
Driving Dynamics
The Traverse prioritizes comfort and a smooth ride, with a compliant suspension that effectively absorbs bumps. However, its handling can feel somewhat sluggish when pushed through corners. The Expedition, on the other hand, offers a more engaging driving experience thanks to its sharper handling and responsive steering. While both SUVs excel in providing a comfortable ride for passengers, the Expedition edges out the Traverse in terms of driver engagement and a more confident feel on the road.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Ford Expedition Exterior: A Tale of Two Styles
Traverse: The Traverse maintains its bold and muscular design language, featuring a prominent grille and chiseled lines. It exudes a sense of ruggedness and capability, making it a compelling choice for those who prioritize a strong presence on the road.
Expedition: The Expedition adopts a more sophisticated and modern approach, featuring a sleek and aerodynamic design. Its flowing lines and prominent chrome accents create a visually appealing and undeniably premium look.
Ultimately, the choice between the Traverse’s bold stance and the Expedition’s sophisticated look boils down to personal preference.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Ford Expedition Interior: Comfort and Functionality
Space
The Expedition reigns supreme in terms of overall passenger space, boasting a cavernous 121.4 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Traverse offers a respectable 122.7 cubic feet of cargo space, making it a close contender in this category. Both SUVs offer ample space for families or frequent travelers with ample luggage.
Amenities
Both vehicles come well-equipped with features like comfortable seating, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a plethora of driver-assistance technologies. However, the Expedition generally offers a more premium feel with higher-quality materials and a more sophisticated design layout.
Technology
The Traverse features a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims offer a larger 10-inch touchscreen and additional features like a navigation system and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Expedition comes standard with a larger 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system that boasts intuitive controls and sharp graphics. Higher trims offer additional features like a head-up display and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Ford Expedition Reliability
Both the Traverse and the Expedition boast above-average reliability ratings according to J.D. Power. The Expedition holds a slight edge, earning a score of 84/100 compared to the Traverse’s 81/100. However, both vehicles are known for their dependability and are expected to last for many years with proper maintenance.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Ford Expedition Safety
Both SUVs come equipped with a full suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Traverse offers additional features on higher trims, such as adaptive cruise control and a rear cross-traffic alert system. The Expedition also offers similar features on higher trims, including a 360-degree camera system and an evasive steering assist system.
The Verdict: Untangling the Winner’s Ribbon
Choosing the “better” SUV ultimately comes down to aligning your individual needs and priorities with the strengths of each contender:
Choose the Chevy Traverse if
- You prioritize affordability, as the Traverse starts at a significantly lower MSRP compared to the Expedition.
- You find the Traverse’s bold and muscular design more appealing.
- You prioritize fuel efficiency, as the Traverse offers slightly better gas mileage on the highway compared to the base Expedition engine.
- You are satisfied with the standard 8-inch infotainment system and prioritize other features over a larger screen.
Choose the Ford Expedition if
- You desire a more powerful engine, especially if you frequently tow or haul heavy loads.
- You prefer the Expedition’s more sophisticated and modern exterior design.
- You crave a more premium and luxurious interior with higher-quality materials.
- You value a larger standard touchscreen infotainment system and access to premium features like a head-up display and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.
- You prioritize a slightly higher reliability rating and additional standard safety features like a 360-degree camera system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does the 2024 Chevy Traverse offer third-row seating?
Yes, both the 2024 Chevy Traverse and Ford Expedition come standard with third-row seating, making them ideal for families with multiple children.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Ford Expedition Which SUV offers a better warranty?
Both the 2024 Chevy Traverse and Ford Expedition come with a standard 3-year/36,000-mile warranty. However, some Ford dealerships may offer extended warranty options through their service departments.
How does towing capacity compare between the two SUVs?
The 2024 Chevy Traverse offers a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,200 pounds when properly equipped with AWD. The 2024 Ford Expedition boasts a more impressive towing capacity of up to 9,300 pounds when equipped with the twin-turbo V6 engine and the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package.
What are some additional factors to consider when choosing between the Traverse and Expedition?
Available features: Explore the specific features offered on each trim level of both vehicles to ensure you get the functionalities you prioritize.
Test drives: Schedule test drives in both SUVs to experience their driving dynamics, comfort levels, and overall feel firsthand.
Local dealership availability and service: Consider the availability and reputation of dealerships in your area for both brands, as this can impact your ownership experience.
Where can I find more information about the 2024 Chevy Traverse and Ford Expedition?
Visit the official websites of Chevrolet and Ford to explore detailed information, specifications, and even build your own virtual configuration of each vehicle. Additionally, reputable car review websites and publications offer in-depth analyses and comparisons, allowing you to delve deeper into their strengths and weaknesses before making a decision.
In conclusion, both the 2024 Chevy Traverse and Ford Expedition offer compelling options in the large SUV segment. By carefully considering the factors outlined above and aligning them with your specific needs and priorities, you can confidently select the SUV that becomes your perfect companion for adventures big and small.
