Ford Explorer vs Chevrolet Tahoe

The full-size SUV market sees the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe as a dominant player, thanks to significant improvements over its predecessors. Chevrolet has addressed earlier critiques by enhancing interior comfort, cargo space, and offering a much-needed upgrade in driving dynamics, technology, and innovation. Conversely, the 2022 Ford Explorer continues to impress in the midsize three-row SUV segment with its rear-drive platform, broad model lineup, and the introduction of new trims catering to a wide array of American tastes and needs.

Performance ratings from CarGurus show the 2021 Tahoe at 8 out of 10 and the 2022 Explorer at 9 out of 10. Chevrolet offers three engines for the Tahoe, including a powerful 6.2-liter V8 and an efficient turbo-diesel option, alongside significant towing capabilities and a notable improvement in ride quality thanks to new suspension technologies. Ford’s Explorer counters with three powertrains of its own, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, an efficient hybrid, and a potent twin-turbocharged V6, each offering a blend of power and efficiency along with impressive towing capacity and a refined ride even in off-road conditions.

In the realm of form and function, the Tahoe earns a stellar 10 out of 10 rating, significantly outperforming the Explorer's 7 out of 10. With its new independent rear suspension, the Tahoe not only offers a more comfortable ride but also significantly improves passenger comfort across all three rows and claims the best cargo volume in its class. Behind the third row, the Tahoe boasts 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space. This expands to 72.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and reaches a maximum of 122.9 cubic feet with both rear rows down, showcasing its superior capacity for luggage and gear. The 2022 Ford Explorer, while comfortable for up to five passengers, limits its third-row usability to children due to its design. The King Ranch trim, despite being fully-equipped, doesn't make up for the Explorer's design limitations that impact practical interior storage and cargo capacity. The Explorer offers 18.2 cubic feet of space behind the third row, which can be expanded to 47.9 cubic feet with the third row folded, and maxes out at 87.8 cubic feet with all rear seats down, falling short of the Tahoe's vast cargo space.

Technology in the Tahoe is highly rated at 9 out of 10, outperforming the Explorer's 6 out of 10. Chevrolet integrates a powerful 10.2-inch touchscreen system with advanced features, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a variety of connected services. The Ford Explorer's technology, particularly its Sync 3 infotainment system, shows its age and lacks the intuitive voice recognition and seamless integration of its competitor, despite offering a generous suite of tech features in higher trims.

Safety ratings reveal the Tahoe at 9 out of 10, slightly behind the Explorer's perfect 10 out of 10. The Tahoe offers a robust suite of standard and optional safety features, but the Explorer stands out with its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a comprehensive Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assist technologies that perform smoothly and accurately, ensuring peace of mind for Explorer drivers and passengers.

Cost effectiveness sees the Tahoe rated at 8 out of 10, with the Explorer lagging at 5 out of 10. The Tahoe's higher entry and equipped prices reflect its full-size SUV status, offering unmatched interior space, comfort, and towing capabilities. The Explorer, while competitively priced within the midsize SUV segment, struggles to justify its premium over rivals when fully equipped, lacking the value-added perks of its competitors.