What To Know
- With a maximum towing capacity of 8,400 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,750 pounds, the Tahoe is the clear choice for those who need a vehicle that can handle heavy loads.
- However, the Explorer has a slight edge in terms of safety features, as it comes standard with a rearview camera and a tire pressure monitoring system, which are not available on the Tahoe.
- If you’re looking for a powerful and fuel-efficient SUV with a modern interior and a variety of technology and safety features, the Ford Explorer is a great choice.
When it comes to full-size SUVs, two names immediately come to mind: the Ford Explorer and the Chevrolet Tahoe. These two vehicles have been duking it out for decades, and they continue to be among the most popular choices for families and adventurers alike. But which one is the better choice? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll put the Ford Explorer and the Tahoe head-to-head and see which one comes out on top.
Performance and Capability
Under the hood, the Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options, including a powerful 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 that delivers 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. The Tahoe, on the other hand, comes standard with a 5.3-liter V8 that produces 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. While both engines provide ample power, the Explorer’s EcoBoost V6 offers better fuel efficiency, especially in city driving.
When it comes to towing and hauling, the Tahoe takes the lead. With a maximum towing capacity of 8,400 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,750 pounds, the Tahoe is the clear choice for those who need a vehicle that can handle heavy loads. The Explorer, on the other hand, has a maximum towing capacity of 5,300 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,500 pounds, which is still respectable but falls short of the Tahoe’s capabilities.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Ford Explorer and the Tahoe offer spacious and comfortable cabins. Both vehicles can seat up to seven passengers, and they provide ample legroom and headroom in all three rows. However, the Explorer’s interior is a bit more modern and stylish, with a sleek dashboard and a user-friendly infotainment system. The Tahoe’s interior, while still comfortable, feels a bit more dated and utilitarian.
In terms of cargo space, the Explorer offers 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.9 cubic feet behind the second row, and 87.8 cubic feet with both rows folded down. The Tahoe, on the other hand, offers 15.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 51.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and 94.7 cubic feet with both rows folded down. While the Tahoe has a slightly larger cargo area with the seats folded down, the Explorer offers more cargo space behind the second row, which is more useful for everyday use.
Technology and Safety
The Ford Explorer and the Tahoe both come standard with a variety of technology and safety features. Both vehicles offer a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a suite of driver assistance features such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Explorer offers a few more advanced features, such as a 360-degree camera system and a hands-free liftgate, which are not available on the Tahoe.
In terms of safety, both the Explorer and the Tahoe have received high ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, the Explorer has a slight edge in terms of safety features, as it comes standard with a rearview camera and a tire pressure monitoring system, which are not available on the Tahoe.
Price and Value
The Ford Explorer has a starting price of $33,995, while the Chevrolet Tahoe has a starting price of $50,200. This makes the Explorer a more affordable option, especially for those on a budget. However, the Tahoe offers more standard features and a higher towing capacity, which may make it a better value for some buyers.
Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, the decision between the Ford Explorer and the Chevrolet Tahoe depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a powerful and fuel-efficient SUV with a modern interior and a variety of technology and safety features, the Ford Explorer is a great choice. However, if you need a vehicle with a higher towing capacity and a more spacious cargo area, the Chevrolet Tahoe is the better option.
Beyond the Basics: A Deeper Dive into the Ford Explorer vs. Tahoe Rivalry
Design and Styling
The Ford Explorer and the Tahoe have distinct design cues that set them apart from each other. The Explorer has a more modern and aerodynamic design, with sleek lines and a sloping roofline. The Tahoe, on the other hand, has a more traditional SUV design, with a boxy shape and a more upright stance.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both the Ford Explorer and the Tahoe offer off-road capabilities, but the Explorer has a slight edge in this area. The Explorer offers a Terrain Management System that allows drivers to select different driving modes for different types of terrain, such as snow, sand, and mud. The Tahoe does not offer a similar system, but it does have a four-wheel drive system that provides good off-road performance.
Fuel Economy
The Ford Explorer has better fuel economy than the Tahoe. The Explorer gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the Tahoe gets an EPA-estimated 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. This makes the Explorer a more fuel-efficient choice, especially for those who drive a lot.
Reliability and Maintenance
The Ford Explorer and the Tahoe have similar reliability ratings. Both vehicles have received above-average scores from J.D. Power and Associates, and they both come with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, the Explorer has a slightly lower cost of ownership than the Tahoe, making it a more affordable choice in the long run.
Resale Value
The Ford Explorer and the Tahoe both have good resale value. Both vehicles hold their value well over time, and they are both popular choices for used car buyers. However, the Explorer typically has a slightly higher resale value than the Tahoe, making it a better choice for those who plan on selling their vehicle in the future.
The Verdict: A Close Race with Two Worthy Contenders
The Ford Explorer and the Chevrolet Tahoe are both excellent full-size SUVs with a lot to offer. The Explorer is a more modern and fuel-efficient choice, while the Tahoe offers more power, towing capacity, and cargo space. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a powerful and fuel-efficient SUV with a modern interior and a variety of technology and safety features, the Ford Explorer is a great choice. However, if you need a vehicle with a higher towing capacity and a more spacious cargo area, the Chevrolet Tahoe is the better option.
Information You Need to Know
Which SUV is more fuel-efficient, the Ford Explorer or the Chevrolet Tahoe?
The Ford Explorer is more fuel-efficient than the Chevrolet Tahoe. The Explorer gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the Tahoe gets an EPA-estimated 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.
Which SUV has a higher towing capacity, the Ford Explorer or the Chevrolet Tahoe?
The Chevrolet Tahoe has a higher towing capacity than the Ford Explorer. The Tahoe has a maximum towing capacity of 8,400 pounds, while the Explorer has a maximum towing capacity of 5,300 pounds.
Which SUV has a more spacious interior, the Ford Explorer or the Chevrolet Tahoe?
The Chevrolet Tahoe has a more spacious interior than the Ford Explorer. The Tahoe offers 15.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 51.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and 94.7 cubic feet with both rows folded down. The Explorer offers 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.9 cubic feet behind the second row, and 87.8 cubic feet with both rows folded down.