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Is the 2027 Ford Explorer better than the 2027 Kia Telluride for families around Weaverville, NC?

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Is the 2027 Ford Explorer better than the 2027 Kia Telluride for families around Weaverville, NC?

Asheville Ford - Is the 2027 Ford Explorer better than the 2027 Kia Telluride for families around Weaverville, NC?

For many families around Weaverville, NC, the choice between the 2027 Ford Explorer and the 2027 Kia Telluride comes down to more than seating count. Both SUVs are three-row family vehicles with useful cargo space, modern technology, and confident towing capability, but the Explorer has the edge for drivers who want a more versatile mix of power, road manners, and advanced driver-assist technology. The Telluride is roomy and well equipped, especially for shoppers who prioritize up to eight-passenger seating and class-leading 2nd-row legroom. Even so, the Explorer answers a broader range of needs with available Intelligent 4WD, a standard 2.3L EcoBoost® engine rated at 300 horsepower, an available twin-turbo 3.0L EcoBoost® V6, and several trim personalities that let families choose comfort, performance, luxury, or extra trail capability.

The question is not whether the Telluride is a good SUV. It is. The better question is which vehicle feels more complete for Western North Carolina life. Around Weaverville, daily driving often means a blend of Main Street errands, school runs, I-26 travel, Asheville commutes, and curving roads toward the Blue Ridge foothills. In that setting, the Explorer feels especially well matched. It offers responsive power, useful cargo space, available hands-free highway driving with Ford BlueCruise, and model-specific hardware on trims such as Tremor® and ST. Families who want one SUV that can feel composed, comfortable, and genuinely enjoyable should put the Explorer at the top of the comparison list.

How do the interiors compare for family use?

The Telluride makes a strong first impression with up to eight-passenger seating, available seven-passenger seating with 2nd-row captain’s chairs, tri-zone Auto Climate Control, USB-C outlets across all three rows, and available dual wireless phone chargers. It also offers available features such as a 29.6-in. Panoramic Display w/ Navigation, Meridian™ Premium Audio, a 12-in. Head-Up Display, and a Full Display Digital Rearview Mirror. For larger families who need an eighth seat, that is a meaningful advantage.

The Explorer focuses on flexible comfort and everyday practicality. It seats six or seven depending on configuration, with standard second-row captain’s chairs and an available second-row bench on all models except Tremor®. Cargo space is another strength, with up to 85.8 cu ft on Active and ST-Line models and 16.3 cu ft behind the third row when all seats are in place. Available seating materials include cloth, Miko® Suede, ActiveX®, and leather, while premium options such as heated, ventilated, massaging front-row seats with leather inserts on Platinum™ help the Ford feel upscale without losing its family-friendly layout. If your family usually travels with five to seven people and values cargo flexibility, the Explorer is an excellent fit.

Which SUV has the stronger performance story?

This is where the Explorer separates itself. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine is rated at 300 horsepower, which already gives it more horsepower than the Telluride gas model’s 2.5L turbocharged engine rated at 274 horsepower. The Telluride Hybrid increases output to 329 horsepower, but the Explorer continues to lead with its available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6, rated at up to 385 max available horsepower in the provided configuration. That extra power can make a difference during highway merging, climbing grades, passing on two-lane roads, or traveling with passengers and cargo.

Both SUVs offer up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity when properly equipped in gas configurations, which is useful for small campers, utility trailers, or recreational gear. However, the Explorer gives drivers more ways to match capability to driving style. Explorer ST adds sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes, and 21" wheels. Explorer Tremor® adds off-road-tuned suspension, increased ride height, underbody protection, and a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle. The Telluride X-Pro is rugged in its own right, with 9.1-in. ground clearance, all-terrain tires, recovery hooks, and an Electronic Limited Slip Differential, but the Explorer lineup feels more diverse and performance-oriented overall.

What technology gives the Explorer an advantage?

The Explorer’s technology story centers on making everyday driving easier and more connected. The Ford Digital Experience brings familiar apps and digital functionality into the cabin, while available Ford BlueCruise helps support hands-free highway driving on compatible roads. BlueCruise can assist with steering, braking, and acceleration while helping keep the SUV centered in its lane, with the driver keeping eyes on the road. For families who regularly travel between Weaverville, Asheville, and longer highway destinations, that capability is a major advantage.

The Telluride also offers many helpful technologies, including available Highway Driving Assist 2, Blind-Spot View Monitor, 360° Surround View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, Digital Key 2.0, and Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control w/ Stop & Go. Those are impressive features, and shoppers should recognize the Telluride’s tech strengths. The Explorer simply offers a more compelling highway assistance story through available Ford BlueCruise, plus the confidence of Ford Co-Pilot360® driver-assist features designed to support awareness, spacing, and convenience behind the wheel.

Key reasons families may prefer the Explorer

  • More available horsepower: The available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 gives the Explorer a clear power advantage over the Telluride gas and hybrid outputs listed in the provided information.
  • More distinct trim personalities: Active, ST-Line, Tremor®, Platinumâ„¢, and ST let shoppers choose practical, sporty, off-road-ready, premium, or performance-focused character.
  • Available hands-free highway driving: Ford BlueCruise is a standout feature for highway travel and commuter confidence.
  • Strong cargo flexibility: Up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo space on select models helps families carry gear, luggage, pets, or home project supplies.
  • Balanced daily usability: The Explorer feels well suited to city errands, interstate driving, curving mountain roads, and weekend recreation.

What should Weaverville-area shoppers consider before choosing?

Start with how many seats you truly need. If eight-passenger capacity is non-negotiable, the Telluride has an advantage because the Explorer seats up to seven. If seven seats meet your needs, the Explorer becomes the stronger all-around choice for many families because it offers better available horsepower, Ford-specific driver assistance, versatile cargo room, and a trim lineup that covers more driving personalities. Families with teens, sports equipment, pets, and frequent Asheville-area errands may find the Explorer’s balance especially useful.

Next, think about where you drive most. If your weekly rhythm includes I-26, I-40, Leicester Highway, Merrimon Avenue, or winding roads outside Weaverville, confident acceleration and composed handling matter. The Explorer’s rear-wheel-drive foundation on many models, available Intelligent 4WD, and available performance or off-road hardware help it feel secure and responsive. It is not just a vehicle that carries people; it is an SUV that can make the drive more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is the 2027 Ford Explorer more powerful than the 2027 Kia Telluride?

Yes, based on the provided specifications. The Explorer’s standard 2.3L EcoBoost® engine is rated at 300 horsepower, while the Telluride gas engine is rated at 274 horsepower. The Explorer’s available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 raises output to up to 385 max available horsepower.

Does the 2027 Ford Explorer have more seating than the 2027 Kia Telluride?

No. The Telluride offers seating for up to eight passengers, while the Explorer seats six or seven depending on configuration. However, many families find the Explorer’s seating, cargo flexibility, and comfort features more than sufficient for daily use.

Which SUV is better for highway driving?

The Explorer has a strong advantage for shoppers who value advanced highway assistance because available Ford BlueCruise supports hands-free highway driving on compatible roads. The Telluride offers available Highway Driving Assist 2, but it does not match Ford BlueCruise as described by Ford.

Which one should families around Weaverville, NC choose?

Families who need eight seats should look closely at the Telluride, but families who want stronger available power, available Intelligent 4WD, advanced Ford technology, and a more diverse trim lineup should choose the Explorer. It is the more engaging and versatile option for many Western North Carolina drivers.

Request more 2027 Ford Explorer information

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What to Know About the 2027 Ford Explorer

Asheville Ford - What to Know About the 2027 Ford Explorer The 2027 Ford Explorer continues to be one of the most well-rounded three-row SUVs for drivers who want capability, technology, comfort, and confident everyday usability in one smart package. Built with a broad range of lifestyles in mind, the Explorer offers seating for up to seven, strong EcoBoost engine choices, available four-wheel drive, and a trim lineup that moves from practical and refined to rugged, luxurious, and performance-focused. For families, commuters, weekend travelers, and drivers who simply want more space without giving up enjoyable performance, the Explorer remains a compelling option. At Asheville Ford, we know SUV shoppers often compare space, safety features, towing ability, comfort, and long-term usability before choosing a vehicle. The 2027 Explorer checks those boxes with a flexible interior, a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, available hands-free highway driving assistance, and multiple models tailored to different priorities. Whether you are researching an efficient family SUV, a sportier daily driver, or a more adventure-ready three-row model, the Explorer lineup offers meaningful choices without making the shopping process feel overwhelming. A Confident Three-Row SUV With Everyday Flexibility The 2027 Ford Explorer is designed around the realities of daily life. It offers three rows of seating, with standard second-row captain’s chairs on every model. For drivers who want maximum passenger capacity, a second-row bench seat is available on select models, increasing seating capacity to seven. This setup makes the Explorer especially useful for families, carpooling, road trips, school activities, and any situation where extra passenger space matters. Cargo flexibility is another major strength. With all seats in place, the Explorer provides practical room behind the third row for groceries, backpacks, sports bags, or smaller luggage. Fold the rear seats down, and the cabin opens into a much larger cargo area. Active and ST-Line models offer up to 85.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, while Tremor, Platinum, and ST models offer up to 85.3 cubic feet. That means the Explorer can handle both passenger duty and cargo hauling with ease. 2027 Ford Explorer Models and Personality One of the best parts of the 2027 Explorer lineup is how distinct each model feels. Instead of offering only minor trim differences, Ford gives shoppers options that match specific driving preferences, design tastes, and feature priorities. Explorer Active: A smart entry point with a 2.3L EcoBoost engine, heated front seats, Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist technology, and practical everyday comfort. Explorer ST-Line: A sport-inspired model with unique interior accents, a 360-degree camera, red stitching, and a premium B&O Sound System with 10 speakers, including a subwoofer. Explorer Tremor: A more rugged option with off-road-tuned suspension, increased ride height, underbody protection, and an available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine. Explorer Platinum: A premium model focused on comfort, upscale materials, available massaging front seats, available panoramic Vista Roof, and available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving assistance. Explorer ST: A performance-focused SUV with a standard 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine, sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers, and a bold road presence. This range makes it easier to find an Explorer that feels personal. Some drivers may value the practicality and comfort of the Active model. Others may prefer the athletic design of ST-Line, the rugged attitude of Tremor, the elevated feel of Platinum, or the performance edge of ST. Powertrain Options and Performance The 2027 Ford Explorer offers two EcoBoost engine choices. Most models come standard with a 2.3L EcoBoost inline-four engine rated at 300 horsepower. This engine is a strong fit for drivers who want responsive acceleration, confident merging, and balanced daily performance without stepping into the higher-output V6. It powers Active, ST-Line, Tremor, and Platinum models as the standard engine. For drivers who want more muscle, the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is standard on the Explorer ST and available on Tremor and Platinum models. This engine delivers up to 385 horsepower in many configurations, with certain ratings varying by state and emissions equipment. The V6 adds a stronger sense of urgency and makes the Explorer feel especially capable when passing, towing, or driving with a full cabin. Properly equipped, the 2027 Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds. That capability makes it a strong match for many weekend needs, including small trailers, recreational equipment, or light utility towing. Available Intelligent 4WD adds another layer of confidence, especially for drivers who want improved traction on changing road surfaces or unpaved routes. Technology That Feels Useful, Not Distracting The 2027 Explorer puts a strong focus on technology that supports the drive. The Ford Digital Experience brings familiar apps, connectivity, and interface design into the cabin in a way that feels modern and intuitive. Rather than adding technology simply for the sake of it, Ford organizes key functions around convenience, entertainment, navigation, and driver confidence. Available Ford BlueCruise is one of the standout technology features. On compatible highways, BlueCruise can assist with steering, braking, acceleration, and lane centering while the driver keeps eyes on the road. This feature can help reduce fatigue during longer highway drives and adds a premium feel to the Explorer’s technology package. BlueCruise is equipped on select models and available depending on configuration. Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist technology also plays an important role across the lineup. Features such as Adaptive Cruise Control and other confidence-focused systems are designed to help support awareness behind the wheel. These technologies do not replace attentive driving, but can make everyday travel feel more composed and less demanding. Interior Comfort and Premium Details Inside, the 2027 Ford Explorer balances durability, comfort, and upscale design. Seating materials vary by model and package, with options such as cloth, ActiveX, Miko Suede, and leather-trimmed surfaces. This lets shoppers choose an interior that matches personal priorities, whether that means easy-clean practicality, sporty texture, or premium softness. Higher trims and available packages add impressive comfort features. Platinum models can be equipped with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. Available ambient lighting enhances the cabin atmosphere, while the available panoramic Vista Roof with power shade gives the interior a brighter, more open feel. For music lovers, the available B&O Sound System brings crisp, immersive audio to the drive. The Explorer also does a good job of keeping practicality front and center. Wide-opening doors, flexible seat configurations, and generous cargo space help make daily use simpler. Whether loading groceries, helping kids into the second row, packing luggage, or folding seats for larger items, the cabin is designed to adapt quickly. Exterior Design and New 2027 Updates The 2027 Explorer has a confident exterior design that changes character depending on the model. Active feels clean and versatile. ST-Line adds a sportier visual attitude. Tremor looks more rugged and trail-ready. Platinum leans upscale, while ST brings the most aggressive performance-inspired look. This variety helps the Explorer appeal to many different tastes without losing its recognizable SUV identity. For 2027, Ford adds fresh visual and feature choices across the lineup. New color options include Avalanche Gray and Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat. The ST model also offers a new Sinister Package with Gloss Black-painted wheels, distinctive accent lighting, and black-outlined ST badging. For shoppers who prefer a smoother roof profile, select models offer a Slick Roof Conversion option that removes the standard roof rails. Why the 2027 Explorer Makes Sense for Local Drivers For SUV shoppers serving Fletcher, Burnsville, and Candler, the 2027 Ford Explorer offers a practical blend of space, power, comfort, and technology. Its three-row cabin supports family life, while its available performance and towing strength add confidence for more demanding plans. The lineup also gives shoppers room to prioritize value, premium comfort, rugged capability, or sporty handling. The Explorer stands out because it does not force a single definition of what a three-row SUV should be. It can be a family vehicle, a comfortable commuter, a road-trip companion, a light-duty tow vehicle, or a stylish performance SUV depending on the model and equipment selected. That versatility is a major reason the Explorer continues to earn attention from shoppers who want one SUV that can handle many roles. Frequently Asked Questions: How many people can the 2027 Ford Explorer seat? The 2027 Explorer seats six people with standard second-row captain’s chairs. Select models can be configured with a second-row bench seat, increasing capacity to seven. How much cargo space does the 2027 Ford Explorer offer? Active and ST-Line models offer up to 85.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. Tremor, Platinum, and ST models offer up to 85.3 cubic feet. All models provide 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row with all seats in place. What engines are available in the 2027 Ford Explorer? The 2027 Explorer offers a 2.3L EcoBoost inline-four engine and a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine. The 2.3L engine is standard on most models, while the 3.0L V6 is standard on ST and available on Tremor and Platinum. Can the 2027 Ford Explorer tow? Yes. When properly equipped, the 2027 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it a capable choice for many small trailers and recreational towing needs. Which 2027 Ford Explorer model is best? The best model depends on priorities. Active is practical and well-equipped, ST-Line adds sporty style, Tremor focuses on rugged capability, Platinum emphasizes premium comfort, and ST delivers the strongest performance character. Request more 2027 Ford Explorer information

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Why the 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor® Makes Sense for Waynesville, NC-Area Adventure and Daily Driving

Asheville Ford - Why the 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor® Makes Sense for Waynesville, NC-Area Adventure and Daily Driving The 2027 Ford Explorer® lineup gives SUV shoppers several strong directions, but the Explorer® Tremor® deserves special attention for drivers who want a three-row SUV with added confidence beyond the pavement. Around Waynesville, NC, daily driving can mean more than a simple commute. Roads can climb, curve, narrow, and shift from town traffic to rural routes quickly. For shoppers who want family-friendly seating, useful cargo space, and hardware designed for more demanding terrain, the Explorer® Tremor® offers a compelling blend of everyday comfort and adventure-ready capability. What makes the Tremor® especially interesting is that it does not abandon the practical qualities that make the Explorer® so appealing in the first place. It remains a three-row SUV with standard second-row captain’s chairs, modern Ford technology, and flexible cargo space. At the same time, it adds equipment that sets it apart from many conventional midsize SUVs, including an off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height, front and rear underbody deflector plates, and a model-exclusive Torsen® limited-slip rear axle. That combination helps give the Tremor® a more capable personality without turning it into a specialty vehicle that feels out of place on normal roads. For Waynesville-area shoppers, that balance is important. A family SUV may need to carry passengers during the week, handle supplies from local stores, and still feel ready for a gravel driveway, trailhead access point, or mountain-area getaway. The 2027 Ford Explorer® Tremor® answers those needs with a setup that feels purposeful. It is not just about rugged styling. The Tremor® brings mechanical features that support traction, clearance, and durability in situations where an ordinary three-row SUV may feel less prepared. Built for More Than the Commute The 2027 Ford Explorer® Tremor® starts with a standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine, and the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine gives shoppers another level of power. That matters for drivers who regularly travel through elevation changes around Haywood County or who want stronger passing confidence on highways connecting Waynesville, Asheville, and surrounding mountain communities. The Explorer® platform already has a reputation for confident road manners, and Tremor® adds a more adventurous layer to that foundation. One of the biggest advantages of the Tremor® is its off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height. In everyday terms, that means the SUV is designed to feel more comfortable tackling uneven surfaces and rougher access roads than many traditional family SUVs. Add in underbody protection with front and rear deflector plates, and the Tremor® becomes a smart choice for shoppers who spend time near campgrounds, mountain cabins, gravel lanes, or outdoor recreation spots where road surfaces can be less predictable. Suspension: Off-road-tuned with increased ride height Traction: Torsen® limited-slip rear axle Protection: Front and rear underbody deflector plates Power: Available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine Utility: Three-row seating and flexible cargo space Why the Torsen® Limited-Slip Rear Axle Matters The Torsen® limited-slip rear axle is one of the most meaningful Tremor® features because it supports traction when road or trail conditions are uneven. In simple terms, it helps distribute power in a way that can improve grip when one rear wheel has less traction than the other. For Waynesville-area drivers who may encounter steep driveways, loose gravel, wet leaves, dirt roads, or uneven access routes, that extra confidence can be valuable. Many three-row SUVs are designed primarily for pavement, and while that works for some drivers, it can leave outdoor-focused shoppers wanting more. The Explorer® Tremor® fills that gap. It gives drivers the people-moving flexibility of a midsize SUV while adding hardware that supports the kind of mixed-surface driving common around Western North Carolina. It is the type of SUV that can feel comfortable near downtown Waynesville, practical for errands, and better prepared when the pavement ends. Comfort and Technology Still Matter Capability is only part of the story. A vehicle also needs to be comfortable enough for daily use, especially when it is serving as the main family SUV. The 2027 Ford Explorer® Tremor® keeps the cabin experience practical and welcoming. Like other Explorer® models, it features three rows of seating, and PowerFold® third-row seats are available on Tremor® for easier cargo flexibility. That makes it simpler to shift between carrying passengers and loading gear. The Explorer® also benefits from the Ford Digital Experience, which brings familiar apps and connected functionality into the cabin. For shoppers comparing SUVs, that kind of interface can make a difference over years of ownership. Navigation support, entertainment access, and vehicle settings are easier to manage when the technology feels intuitive. The available Sun & Sound Package on Tremor® models with the 3.0L EcoBoost® engine adds another premium layer, including an upgraded B&O® Sound System, massaging front seats, and a power moonroof. Cabin Layout: Three rows for family and passenger flexibility Third Row: Available PowerFold® third-row seats on Tremor® Audio Upgrade: Available B&O® Sound System through Sun & Sound Package Comfort Upgrade: Available massaging front seats through Sun & Sound Package Open-Air Feel: Available power moonroof through Sun & Sound Package A Strong Fit for Waynesville, NC Drivers Waynesville drivers often need a vehicle that feels composed in several different environments. A trip toward Asheville may involve highway driving. A run through town may require easy maneuverability and good visibility. A weekend plan may call for extra cargo space and more traction confidence. The 2027 Ford Explorer® Tremor® is appealing because it does not feel limited to one role. It is family-friendly, technology-forward, and mechanically prepared for more adventurous use. Compared with many competitors, the Explorer® Tremor® stands out because its rugged features are more than visual. Some SUVs add dark trim, roof rails, or all-terrain-looking design cues without much functional hardware underneath. The Tremor® goes further with a specific limited-slip rear axle, underbody deflector plates, and suspension tuning that supports rougher-road capability. For shoppers who care about substance, that distinction matters. At Asheville Ford, we can help shoppers compare the Tremor® to other 2027 Ford Explorer® trims. If your needs lean toward luxury, the Platinum™ may be a better match. If performance is the top priority, the ST brings a sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes, and a standard 3.0L EcoBoost® engine. If you want the most adventure-ready personality in the lineup, the Tremor® deserves a close look. Our goal is to help you match the SUV to your real driving habits rather than simply choose the trim with the longest feature list. Frequently Asked Questions: Does the 2027 Ford Explorer® Tremor® have three rows? Yes. The 2027 Ford Explorer® Tremor® includes three-row seating. Second-row captain’s chairs are standard on all Explorer® models, including Tremor®. What makes the Tremor® different from other Explorer® trims? The Tremor® stands out with features such as an off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height, a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle, and front and rear underbody deflector plates. Is the 3.0L EcoBoost® engine available on the Explorer® Tremor®? Yes. The 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine is available on the 2027 Ford Explorer® Tremor®. It is also available on Platinum™ and standard on ST. Can Asheville Ford help compare Explorer® trims? Yes. Our team can walk through the differences between Active, ST-Line, Tremor®, Platinum™, and ST so you can choose the Explorer® that best fits your driving needs near Waynesville and across Western North Carolina. Start Your Explorer® Tremor® Search with Asheville Ford If the 2027 Ford Explorer® Tremor® sounds like the right fit, Asheville Ford is ready to help you take the next step. You can browse inventory online, value your trade, apply for financing, and schedule a test drive with our team. We can also answer questions about available Intelligent 4WD, cargo space, seating configurations, available packages, and service support. For Waynesville-area shoppers looking for a three-row SUV with genuine capability and everyday comfort, the Explorer® Tremor® is well worth a closer look. *Vehicle images and features shown are for illustration only and may vary by trim and option. Request more 2027 Ford Explorer information

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Is the 2027 Ford Explorer or 2027 Chevrolet Traverse the Better Three-Row SUV for Waynesville, NC Families?

Asheville Ford - Is the 2027 Ford Explorer or 2027 Chevrolet Traverse the Better Three-Row SUV for Waynesville, NC Families? For many shoppers around Waynesville, NC, the question is simple: which three-row SUV is the better everyday fit, the Ford Explorer® SUV or the Chevrolet Traverse? Both are modern family vehicles with strong reputations, flexible seating, useful cargo room, advanced safety features, and available hands-free driving technology. The difference becomes clearer when drivers look beyond size and ask how each SUV feels on mountain roads, how much performance flexibility is available, and how well the vehicle can adapt to different lifestyles over several years of ownership. The Chevrolet Traverse is a strong option for shoppers who prioritize maximum interior room. It offers seating for up to eight, best-in-class cargo volume according to Chevrolet, and a standard 17.7-inch touchscreen display. It also includes over 20 standard safety and driver assistance features, plus an available Z71 model with off-road-oriented hardware and an RS model with Super Cruise® hands-free driver assistance technology. Those are real strengths. However, the Ford Explorer makes an especially strong case for Western North Carolina drivers because it gives shoppers more variety in performance, traction, comfort, and trim personality. Which SUV Feels Better for Mountain Driving? Mountain driving places different demands on an SUV than flat city commuting. Roads near Waynesville can include quick elevation changes, winding stretches, rural two-lane routes, and highway grades where confident acceleration matters. This is where Explorer stands out. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine delivers 300 hp, which gives the Explorer a strong foundation for daily travel. For shoppers who want more power, the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 raises the level of response and confidence. This engine is standard on Explorer ST and available on Tremor® and Platinum™ models, giving drivers a high-output choice that the Traverse lineup does not match. The Traverse uses a turbocharged 2.5L engine across its lineup, paired with an 8-speed transmission. It is built to be capable and practical, and Chevrolet does offer an Advanced Twin-Clutch AWD System on the Z71. Still, Ford gives shoppers a wider mechanical spread. Explorer can be configured with available Intelligent 4WD, and the Tremor® model adds off-road-tuned suspension, increased ride height, underbody protection, and a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle. For drivers who split time between town errands, highway travel, gravel driveways, and weekend routes into the mountains, that added mechanical depth is valuable. How Do the Interiors Compare? Interior space is often the first comparison point for families. The Traverse has an advantage in maximum cargo volume and can seat up to eight passengers when properly configured. That makes it appealing for larger households or anyone who regularly fills every seat. Explorer seats six or seven, depending on configuration, with standard second-row captain’s chairs and an available second-row bench on most models. Maximum cargo volume reaches up to 85.8 cu ft on Active and ST-Line models, with 16.3 cu ft behind the third row when all seats are in place. Where Explorer shines is in the way it blends comfort, technology, and upscale details. Available seating materials include cloth, Miko® Suede, ActiveX®, and leather, depending on trim. Platinum™ models can offer heated, ventilated, and massaging front-row seats with leather inserts, while available multicontour massaging seats and immersive ambient lighting help create a more refined environment. The Ford Digital Experience also adds a connected, intuitive feel for drivers who want familiar apps and vehicle functions presented in a clean, modern interface. Key Advantages of the Ford Explorer Performance range: Explorer offers a standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine and an available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6, while Traverse uses one turbocharged engine family. Specialized trims: Explorer includes Active, ST-Line, Tremor®, Platinum™, and ST models, giving shoppers more ways to choose the right personality. Trail-ready hardware: Explorer Tremor® offers off-road-tuned suspension, underbody protection, increased ride height, and a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle. Sport-focused engineering: Explorer ST adds sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers, and 21-inch wheels. Premium comfort: Available massaging front seats, leather seating surfaces, ambient lighting, and a panoramic Vista Roof® with power shade elevate the cabin. What About Technology and Driver Assistance? Both SUVs offer advanced technology, but their approaches differ. Chevrolet highlights its standard 17.7-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone connectivity, Google built-in, OnStar®, and available Super Cruise®. Traverse also promotes over 20 standard safety and driver assistance features, including systems such as Front Pedestrian and Bicycle Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Blind Zone Steering Assist, and Automatic Emergency Braking. For families, that level of standard safety content is reassuring. Ford answers with Ford Co-Pilot360® Technology, available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving, available 360-degree camera, the Ford Digital Experience, and available B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with 10 speakers including subwoofer on select models. BlueCruise is especially useful for longer highway stretches because it can help control steering, braking, and acceleration on compatible highways while the driver keeps eyes on the road. For commuters heading between Haywood County and Asheville, or families taking longer interstate trips, that kind of driver-assist support can make travel feel more relaxed. Which SUV Is Better for Towing and Weekend Gear? Both SUVs are rated for a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, so shoppers who need to tow small trailers, recreational equipment, or light utility loads will find capability in either model. The difference is that Explorer pairs its towing strength with multiple powertrain personalities. A driver who wants an everyday family SUV can choose the 2.3L EcoBoost® engine. A driver who wants stronger passing power or a more confident feel on steep grades can consider the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6. The Traverse deserves recognition for its cargo-first design. Its 98 cu ft maximum cargo volume is helpful for bulky items, and the AutoSense Power Liftgate plus available power-folding seating features add convenience. Explorer counters with practical cargo space, available PowerFold® third-row seats on select models, and a cabin that can transition smoothly from school pickup to trailhead parking to a polished night out. For many Waynesville-area drivers, that balance of utility and personality is what makes Explorer feel more complete. Frequently Asked Questions: Is the Ford Explorer more powerful than the Chevrolet Traverse? Yes, when comparing available power. Explorer offers a standard 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine and an available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 rated up to 385 hp in the provided configuration. Traverse uses a turbocharged 2.5L engine across its lineup. Does the Chevrolet Traverse have more cargo space? Yes. Chevrolet lists the Traverse with 98 cu ft of maximum cargo volume, while the Explorer offers up to 85.8 cu ft depending on model. Shoppers who want maximum cargo volume may appreciate the Traverse, but those who want stronger performance variety and more specialized trims may prefer the Explorer. Which SUV is better for drivers around Waynesville, NC? The Explorer is an excellent fit for Waynesville-area roads because it offers available Intelligent 4WD, an available high-output EcoBoost® V6, Tremor® off-road equipment, and ST performance hardware. That makes it especially appealing for drivers who want confidence on grades, curves, highways, and rural routes. Do both SUVs offer hands-free driving technology? Yes. Explorer offers available Ford BlueCruise, while Traverse offers available Super Cruise®. Both systems are designed to support hands-free highway driving under proper conditions, with the driver remaining attentive. The Bottom Line for Three-Row SUV Shoppers If the top priority is maximum seating and cargo volume, the Chevrolet Traverse is easy to understand. It is roomy, practical, and packed with family-friendly features. But if the goal is to find a three-row SUV with more driving character, more powertrain flexibility, and more trim-specific capability, the Ford Explorer is the stronger choice. It can be comfortable and premium, rugged and trail-ready, or sporty and energetic, depending on the model selected. For shoppers around Waynesville, NC, that flexibility matters. Local driving can include neighborhood streets, interstate travel, steep climbs, tight curves, and weekend getaways into the mountains. Explorer is built to feel confident in more of those situations, while still delivering the seating, cargo space, safety technology, and connected features families expect. That is why many shoppers comparing these two SUVs should put the Ford Explorer at the top of the test-drive list. Request more 2027 Ford Explorer information