Ford Edge vs Chevy Traverse Mechanicsburg PA

If you need to tote your growing family around but don't want to give up your outdoorsy persona -your next vehicle should be an SUV crossover. Two of the best to test drive are the 2014 Ford Edge and the 2014 Chevrolet Traverse. 

While the Traverse holds three more passengers, eight to the Ford's five, both vehicles share several similarities. Under the hood both have a V6 engine with 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission that translates into similar horsepower of 285 at 6,500 revolutions per minute. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Ford's slightly smaller footprint results in slightly better results with 27 miles per gallon. 

When you are looking at the two SUVs side-by-side, the choice will be in the details.

 

Interior

Both vehicles are about the same inside, relatively spacious with comfortable seating for SUVs. Both have a touchscreen interface to control specs and climate. The MyFord Touch system is a bit cumbersome to use until you're familiar with it. The Ford Edge has plenty of functional cargo space, even when you're hauling three of your friends and a toddler in a car seat.

The Edge comes in four styles. The standard includes 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, and a 6-speaker sound system with a CD player. Even at this standard level, options let you trick out your family-mobile with automatic headlights, keypad entry, and Sync voice command. The Sport level takes you to 22-inch wheels along with a more powerful engine and sport-tuned suspension, which will transport the Edge from the carpool line to the edge of the cliff at your favorite hiking spot. 

The larger Traverse is similar in its standard body style, with full power accessories and 17-inch wheels. The LTZ trim includes a blind-spot monitoring system and leather seating. Optional is a dual-powered sunroof and heated steering wheel. 

Exterior

On the outside the Edge and the Traverse are softer than some of their SUV cousins, but in a sleek, sophisticated way. Both use rounded corners and well-planned cut-ins to create a vehicle that is sure to make you proud when you get behind the wheel. 

Driving

Since sitting behind the wheel is what you do most with busy families, how these SUVs drive is vital. Here the Ford clearly bests the Chevy with its handling and pickup. Bigger and heavier, the 2014 Chevrolet Traverse feels sluggish and bulky compared to the sleeker, quieter Ford. Even for an SUV, the Ford has an assertive yet nimble feel; it doesn't hesitate when passing those trucks on the highway. Additionally, inside the vehicle the Ford has a surprising hush, with highway sounds buffered. 

Safety Features

Both the Ford and Chevy scored a "Good" rating from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS). The Chevy bested the Ford in government crash tests, earning five out of five stars, while the Ford scored 4 stars. 

Overall, the 2014 Ford Edge and the 2014 Chevrolet Traverse offer plenty of room for family, whether your family members are hiking buddies, teething toddlers, or four-legged furry ones. But in the end, Ford edges out Chevy with better handling, better gas mileage, and overall optional technology. 

When you are ready to test drive your next SUV, head over to your Mechanicsburg Ford dealership, where their knowledgeable staff is ready to help you get buckled up and headed down the highway.