2022 Chevrolet Tahoe vs Ford Explorer

The 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe and 2022 Ford Explorer are both large SUVs that offer three rows of seats. The Tahoe has room for up to nine people, while the Explorer can accommodate seven. This can change slightly depending on the model and optional seat configurations. Both of these full-sized SUVs have four doors and rear access to the cargo hold.

The Tahoe and Explorer both have massive amounts of space to store your goods. The Chevy provides 25.5 cubic-feet of storage space behind the third row. This can be expanded up to 122.9 cubic-feet of space by folding down the rear seats. The Explorer has 18.2 cubic-feet of cargo space when all of the seats are in their default positions. This can be increased to 87.8 cubic-feet of space when its rear seats are folded down.

These two SUVs are roughly the same size, though the Tahoe is almost a foot longer. Chevy's engineers were able to turn that extra length into significantly more cargo space than what the Ford offers. It's a little more spacious for the passengers inside of the Tahoe too. The Tahoe measures in at 211-inches long, 81-inches wide and 76-inches high. The Explorer has a length of 199 inches, a width of 79 inches and a height of 70 inches.

Chevrolet and Ford are two of the most successful American automakers. It's only natural for their vehicles to be compared with one another. It's also no secret that there's a rivalry here, as both companies compete for dominance in the North American market. Both brands have loyal, die-hard fans too. Here's a closer look at how the Tahoe and Explorer stack up to each other in some key categories.

The Powertrain

The 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe has three different engine choices. There's a 5.3-liter V-8 that produces 355 horsepower with 383 pound-feet of torque. A bigger 6.2-liter V-8 cranks out 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. There's also an available 3.0-liter, 6-cylinder diesel engine that makes 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Every powertrain gets a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The smaller V-8 has a combined fuel-economy rating of 17 miles-per-gallon, while the larger 6.2-liter V-8 has a combined fuel-economy rating of 16 miles-per-gallon. The diesel engine offers the best fuel efficiency of the bunch. It can get up to 21 miles-per-gallon in the city and 28 miles-per-gallon on the highway.

Most of the Tahoe's trim levels are available with either two-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). The only exception is the Z71 model which comes stock with 4WD. This is only natural, as the Z71 model was designed for superior off-road performance. The 2WD models send power exclusively to the rear wheels. All trims have anti-lock disc brakes.

The Tahoe has a front coil-over-shock suspension and a rear multi-link suspension. Every model has an electronic stability-control feature with traction control. All engines have Start/Stop technology to enhance fuel efficiency. The High Country trim has Magnetic Ride Control for a smooth, comfortable ride. The Z71 offers an enhanced suspension and upgraded 4WD system for better off-road performance.

The 2022 Ford Explorer also has three different available engines. The Ford lacks a diesel option, but it does have a hybrid model. Most trim levels will be powered by a turbocharged, 2.3-liter, 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine. This engine has Start/Stop technology and should get up to 20 miles-per-gallon in the city and 27 miles-per-gallon on the highway. This falls slightly on models with 4WD.

This base engine produces 300 horsepower. Just in case that's not enough, Ford also offers a 3.0-liter V-6 with twin turbochargers. This power-plant cranks out 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. It has incredible acceleration and a top speed of 143 miles-per-hour. The V-6 has Automatic Start/Stop technology and a combined fuel-economy rating of 25 miles-per-gallon.

Every model of the Explorer has a 10-speed automatic transmission. Anti-lock disc brakes are installed on every model. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard, but most trim levels also offer Ford's Intelligent AWD (all-wheel drive) System. This AWD system has seven different driving modes and Hill-Descent Control. ST models come with a special sport-tuned, independent front and rear suspension.

Ford's hybrid model offers an EPA-estimated fuel-economy rating of 27 miles-per-gallon in the city and 29 miles-per-gallon on highways. This powertrain uses a 3.3-liter V-6 engine and an electric motor. It makes 318 horsepower and is fully off-road capable. It can also tow over 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Drivability

The Chevrolet Tahoe provides adequate acceleration from its big V-8 engines. The Tahoe offers more horsepower, but somehow the Explorer is a little bit quicker when it's equipped with the turbocharged V-6 engine. For the most part though, the Tahoe will have more passing power, a higher top speed and greater towing capabilities. It also never feels bogged down by a full load of passengers and cargo.

Still, the Ford is no slouch when it comes to power, acceleration and overall performance. It also offers vastly better fuel efficiency, especially from the hybrid engine. Steering and handling are more responsive in the Ford Explorer too. Braking power is strong and smooth for both vehicles. Both offer comfortable rides over paved roads. Higher trims of the Tahoe really excel here, with features like Magnetic Ride Control and Adaptive Air Ride Suspension.

The Chevrolet Tahoe may have a slightly nicer interior when comparing the top trim levels. Both vehicles have comfortable, supportive seats. There are 10-way power seats up front with lumbar support for both the Tahoe and the Explorer. Heating is available for the seats inside of both SUVs. Both Ford and Chevrolet have done a fine job of sound-proofing the interiors.

The Chevrolet Tahoe has the best off-road model with its Z71 trim level. Ford's ST and King Ranch models are quite capable as well when it comes to off-road fun. Both SUVs have multi-zone climate-control systems to keep the interiors comfortable in all weather. Both also have excellent infotainment systems and audio to keep everyone entertained.

Ford's SYNC 3 System has either an 8-inch LCD screen or a 10.1-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim level. Likewise, the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System offers an 8-inch or a 10.2-inch screen, depending on the trim. Both systems feature Voice-Command Technology, Bluetooth streaming, multiple USB ports and available WiFi hotspots. Both are compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, though the Tahoe also adds built-in Google features.

Chevy offers a premium Bose sound system with 10 speakers and CenterPoint Technology. Ford offers a premium audio system by Bang & Olufsen with 12 speakers and a subwoofer. Both vehicles have available integrated navigation systems.

Safety

Everyone wants a safe vehicle that will protect them and their passengers. Fortunately, both the Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Explorer meet this criteria. Both SUVs have an Advanced Airbag System, a Tire-Pressure Monitor and a Rear-View Camera. Both have Child Safety Locks in the rear and the LATCH system for tethering in child safety seats. Both vehicles also have high-tech systems to maintain stability and to enhance traction.

Every version of the Tahoe comes with Chevy Safety Assist. This includes a number of driver-assist features. There's a Forward Collision Alert to warn of impending crashes. Automatic Emergency Braking and Front Pedestrian Braking help to stop the vehicle in time before an accident occurs. There's also a Following-Distance Indicator to help the driver maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them.

Chevy Safety Assist also features a Lane-Keeping Assist feature with a departure warning that lets the driver know when they've moved too far out of their own lane. For even better awareness, an HD Rear Camera and HD Surround Vision are available as options. Some of the higher trim levels get a Lane-Change Alert that monitors cross-traffic and gives the driver a warning if they try to move over when it's not safe to do so.

Every model of the Tahoe is OnStar® & Chevrolet Connected Services™ capable. OnStar provides vehicle diagnostics and can even contact emergency assistance after an accident. Chevrolet Connected Services can connect the driver to emergency services whether or not they're inside of the vehicle.

Every Tahoe also gets Chevy's Teen Driver technology. This system is perfect for anyone who has a less-experienced driver at home who will also be using the vehicle. It can connect vehicle settings to the teen driver's own key fob. It also provides feedback on the younger driver's habits so the owner of the vehicle can give them some tips on safer driving practices.

Every model of the Ford Explorer has Ford Co-Pilot360™ Technology. This includes plenty of features that are similar to what the Chevrolet Tahoe offers. For example, there's a Lane-Keeping System that includes both a Lane-Keeping Alert and Lane-Keeping Assist. It warns the driver when they veer too far and even makes minor adjustments automatically to keep them safely in their own lane.

Ford Co-Pilot360 also has a Forward Collision Warning, Front Parking Sensors and Rear Parking Sensors. A 360-Degree Camera with a split view is optional. The Explorer's stock rear camera shows a grid pattern to help drivers back into a parking space. It also features a washer to clean the camera lens so there's always a clear view.

The Explorer has more security features than the Tahoe. There's a Perimeter Alarm and a passive Anti-Theft Alarm. There's a Remote Keyless Entry System. A SecuriCode Entry Pad is available on certain models as an option. This allows the driver to enter the vehicle with a special code instead of using a key or a remote key FOB.

Which Has the Best Value?

The starting price of a 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe is $50,500. That's the MSRP on a base LS trim with 2WD. The most expensive model is the High Country. A 2WD model starts at $74,396 and a 4WD will set you back by $77,395. Prices can go up significantly per trim level when options and packages are added on.

The 2022 Ford Explorer starts out at $33,745. The most expensive model is the Platinum trim. It has a starting price of $51,860. The Ford Explorer is way more affordable. The Tahoe has more power and torque. It also has far more standard features in most categories. The safety features and driver-assist systems are superior in the Tahoe. This may not matter, however, since even the top trim level for the Explorer is comparable in price to the base-model Tahoe.

Both vehicles offer similar interior quality and comfort. Both offer comparable ride quality too. The entertainment features are similar, though the Ford Explorer has the better premium sound system. One can also get the Ford's top infotainment system and sound system for much less than what the top systems cost on a Tahoe.

The 2022 Ford Explorer is easily the best value here. There are a few more perks from owning a Tahoe when comparing the top trim levels of both SUVs. They hardly warrant the drastic price difference, though. The Ford will also save owners money over time with its superior fuel efficiency.

Which Is Better?

The answer to this question will depend on what one wants from their large SUV. The Chevrolet Tahoe has more power and torque. Some owners just need to have a big V-8 engine for their SUV. If that's you, the Tahoe is your only choice here. If a smaller, turbocharged engine doesn't bother you, the Ford Explorer still has massive amounts of horsepower. It also has far better fuel efficiency and won't cost you as much at the gas pumps as the thirsty Tahoe.

The Chevrolet Tahoe has more room for passengers. It has more storage space too. While most feature categories are comparable for these two SUVs, the Chevy has more driver-assist tech and better safety features. Both provide a good driving experience and are downright cozy to ride around in. Both are also attractive vehicles on the outside and inside.

At the end of the day, the Chevrolet Tahoe is the better vehicle in almost every category. The Ford Explorer really only wins when it comes to fuel efficiency and the sound systems. There's not a huge difference, however, unless someone absolutely needs one more passenger seat or an extra 20 horsepower. The ways in which the Chevy is better just aren't enough to justify the price difference. Ford's Explorer still wins here because it's simply too good of a bargain.