Are you in the market for a new SUV and considering the Ford Explorer and Chevy Tahoe? Both are popular choices, but which one is the right fit for you and your family? In this article, we’ll compare the two SUVs in various categories to help you make an informed decision.
Price
One of the most significant factors to consider when choosing a car is the price. The Ford Explorer has a starting price of $32,225, which is significantly lower than the Chevy Tahoe’s starting price of $49,000. The Explorer has a lower price tag, but it also has fewer features than the Tahoe, which could be a deal-breaker for some buyers.
Size and Capacity
Both the Ford Explorer and Chevy Tahoe are large SUVs that can comfortably seat up to seven passengers. However, the Tahoe has more space for passengers and cargo. The Tahoe has a maximum cargo capacity of 94.7 cubic feet, while the Explorer has a maximum cargo capacity of 87.8 cubic feet.
Performance
The Ford Explorer is available with three engine options: a 2.3-liter four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter V6, and a 3.3-liter hybrid V6. The base model comes with a 300-horsepower V6, which provides sufficient power for most drivers. The Chevy Tahoe, on the other hand, comes with a 5.3-liter V8 engine that delivers 355 horsepower. The Tahoe’s engine is more powerful, but it also uses more fuel than the Explorer’s engine.
Fuel Efficiency
The Ford Explorer’s base engine gets an EPA-estimated 24 mpg on the highway and 18 mpg in the city. The hybrid model gets an impressive 27 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Chevy Tahoe’s fuel economy is significantly lower than the Explorer’s. The Tahoe gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg on the highway and 15 mpg in the city.
Technology
The Ford Explorer comes with a variety of standard and available technology features, including Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Chevy Tahoe also has a lot of technology features, including a 10.2-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a Bose premium sound system.
Safety
The Ford Explorer and Chevy Tahoe both come with a variety of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Explorer also has a few unique safety features, such as a rear-seat inflatable seatbelt system and a 360-degree camera system.
Reliability
When it comes to reliability, both the Ford Explorer and Chevy Tahoe perform well. The Explorer has a slightly higher predicted reliability rating than the Tahoe, according to J.D. Power. However, both SUVs have similar repair and maintenance costs.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Ford Explorer and Chevy Tahoe ultimately comes down to personal preference and priorities. If you’re looking for a more affordable SUV with better fuel efficiency, the Ford Explorer is the way to go. However, if you need more space for passengers and cargo, the Chevy Tahoe is the better option. Both SUVs are reliable and come with a variety of features, so it’s important to test drive both before making a final decision.
