2026 Chevy Traverse vs 2026 Ford Explorer
| 2026 Chevy Traverse | VS | 2026 Ford Explorer |
| $40,800 [a] | MSRP | $38,465 |
| 328 | Base Horsepower | 300 |
| 97.6 cu.ft. | Cargo Space | 85.8 cu.ft. |
| 17.7 in | Screen Size | 13.2 in |
Three-row SUVs are popular vehicles with families. Among the many available options are the Chevy Traverse and Ford Explorer. Both offer exceptional performance, a spacious and comfortable interior, and many of the technologies that drivers look for.
Determining which one is the better purchase is why we’re here today. In this three-row SUV showdown, of the 2026 Chevy Traverse vs 2026 Ford Explorer, we’re going to focus on the items that many drivers favor when purchasing a vehicle. Here’s what you can expect:
- Performance: We’ll look at aspects such as fuel economy, performance, and capabilities that SUV owners seek.
- Interior: Comfortable seating and ample cargo room have always been hallmarks of the SUV class. We’ll examine both of these aspects. We’ll also review the various amenities that ensure comfort, and the infotainment systems that keep drivers connected to apps.
- Safety: When it comes to what you drive, nothing will ever be more important than safety. We’ll examine the safety and driver assistance features of each vehicle, and how they provide protection and oversight where it matters most.
Performance
Drivers examine various aspects of any vehicle they’re considering. The modern SUV buyer looks for a powertrain that’s both economical and versatile. They enjoy having plenty of performance for recreational activities, yet they also favor conservative fuel consumption.
Powertrains
The 2026 Traverse and 2026 Explorer are both equipped with engines designed for the modern driver. Whether you seek performance, efficiency, or capability, either SUV can deliver what you need.
Chevy’s three-row SUV has a single powertrain option, ensuring all trims benefit from the same performance and fuel economy. The Traverse is powered by a turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder engine that pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Ford Explorer offers two powertrains. The base engine, which comes standard on most trims, is a turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder. To improve performance, one should opt for an upper trim, as these have a turbocharged 3.0L V6.
Power Output
When comparing the Traverse’s turbocharged four-cylinder against the Explorer’s, there’s a considerable gap. For drivers who enjoy off-roading and rapid acceleration, this is an important consideration.
- The Traverse’s four-cylinder produces 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque.
- The Explorer’s base powertrain offers good power but falls short of Chevy’s, producing 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.
Fuel Economy
Many family-oriented drivers are concerned with minimizing fuel costs. The Traverse’s engine, while providing great power, is also efficient. Meanwhile, Explorer owners who choose the V6 will find themselves going to the pump more often.
- FWD versions of the 2026 Traverse offer drivers 20 MPG in the city, 26 MPG on the highway, and 22 MPG combined.
- The 2026 Explorer’s V6 might offer good power, but fuel economy is its Achilles’ heel, with only 18 MPG in the city, 25 MPG on the highway, and 21 MPG combined.
Capabilities
When it comes to recreational activities, the Traverse and Explorer are mostly even in what they offer. Both SUVs are capable of towing large loads and facilitating off-road adventures.
- Both vehicles offer drivers a maximum towing rating of 5,000 lbs. However, the Traverse comes with a standard tow hitch, which is an option available on select Explorer trims.
- The Traverse’s Z71 trim and the Explorer’s Tremor trim are both designed for off-roading. They come with skid plates, multiple drive modes, and special suspension systems.
The Traverse Outperforms the Explorer
- The Traverse offers better fuel economy and power output.
- A single powertrain across all trims means great performance for all.
- A standard tow hitch on all trims makes towing accessible for all.
Interior
We’ve spent some time looking under the hood, so now we’ll get behind the wheel. The 2026 Traverse and 2026 Explorer both offer many of the practical elements of the SUV class, such as comfortable seating and ample cargo room. These pragmatic aspects are complemented by tech-savvy features and amenities that ensure both comfort and utility.
Many things have changed about the SUV class since the boom began. However, they’ve always provided drivers with seating and storage. The Traverse and Explorer both have three rows of seating and multiple cargo configurations.
Seating Layout
Despite having three rows of seating, the Explorer only accommodates seven passengers. The lack of a bench seat is a disadvantage for larger families and those who need to transport multiple passengers.
If seating limitations apply to the Explorer, the exact opposite is true for the Traverse. Like the Explorer, the Traverse can accommodate seven passengers thanks to second-row captain’s chairs. However, an available bench seat in the second row allows the SUV to seat eight comfortably.
Cargo Room
In addition to seating, three-row SUVs are also known for their generous cargo room. Both the Traverse and Explorer offer plenty. However, the Traverse outshines the Explorer in this area.
- When all three rows are occupied, the Explorer offers 16.3 cu.ft. of cargo room. The second row can be folded down to unlock 46 cu.ft., and 85.8 cu.ft. is available behind the front row.
- The Traverse’s cargo arrangements are far more generous. Chevy’s SUV offers 22.9 cu.ft. of space when all seats are occupied. Folding the second row increases storage capacity to 56.6 cu.ft. When cargo room becomes a priority, 97.6 cu.ft. can be found behind the front row.
Comfort Amenities
Many SUV owners crave a discernible level of comfort. The Traverse and Explorer both have amenities that make any commute more enjoyable.
- Heated Front Seats: Both SUVs offer heated front seats, but only the Traverse offers them as a standard feature across all trims.
- Heated Steering Wheel: This is standard on all trims of the Traverse, but is only available on select trims of the Explorer.
- Tri-Zone Climate Control: Both SUVs offer standard tri-zone climate control across all trims.
Connectivity Tech
The modern SUV owner is well-versed in technology. As such, they aim to stay connected while on the road. The Explorer and Traverse both come with intuitive infotainment systems that offer many of the benefits drivers look for:
- Google built-in, for music, maps, and much more.
- Multiple USB ports to accommodate devices.
However, the Chevy Traverse has some distinct advantages regarding its connectivity features:
- A wireless charging pad is standard on all trims.
- A 17.7-inch touchscreen on all trims (versus the Explorer’s 13.2-inch screen).
The Traverse Has a Better Interior
- The Traverse offers more seating configurations and cargo space.
- A larger infotainment screen with features that keep drivers connected.
- More standard amenities to ensure comfort for drivers and passengers.
Safety
At last, we’ve reached the most important attribute of an SUV. Many drivers are family-oriented and prioritize safety. As such, they value vehicles equipped with many safety and driver assistance features.
Driver Assistance Suites
Both the Traverse and Explorer have suites with many features that provide protection and oversight. Both Chevy Safety Assist and Ford Co-Pilot360 give drivers the peace of mind they’re looking for.
- Automatic emergency braking
- Forward collision alerts
- Blind spot monitoring
- Lane keeping assistance
- Lane departure warnings
- Automated high beams
Adaptive Cruise Control
Both the Traverse and Explorer also come with adaptive cruise control as a standard feature. It monitors traffic patterns on highways and adjusts your speed based on the speed of the vehicle ahead of you.
Hands-Free Driving
Semi-autonomous driving is one of the biggest breakthroughs in driver assistance technology. The Traverse and Explorer both have access to this tech: Chevy has Super Cruise, and Ford has BlueCruise.
- Thousands of pre-programmed roads from all over North America.
- Both technologies assist with hands-free driving and lane changes.
- Helpful in making interstate travel easier and reducing driver fatigue.
Chevy’s Other Benefits
Prospective SUV buyers will be pleased to know that the 2026 Chevy Traverse offers exclusive features not found on the 2026 Ford Explorer.
- Following Distance Indicator: Keeps drivers informed regarding how close they are to the vehicle they’re currently following.
- Access to OnStar: OnStar is one of the best services in the auto industry. It’s been effective at vehicle recovery and can help emergency services locate you in the event of an accident.
- Teen Driver: A virtual report card for parents, Teen Driver can monitor driving habits, limit stereo volume, and ensure that certain safety features stay enabled when the vehicle is in use.
The Chevy Traverse Is a Safe Bet
- The Traverse and Explorer are both safe vehicles with an abundance of safety and driver assistance features.
- Chevy’s exclusive features—unavailable on the Explorer—make it a safer pick for drivers who prioritize peace of mind on the road.
Find a 2026 Traverse at McCluskey Chevrolet
After our examination, it should be clear that the 2026 Chevy Traverse is a better three-row midsize SUV than the 2026 Ford Explorer. When you’re ready to take a test drive, consider visiting our location. At McCluskey Chevrolet, we have the Traverse with its various trims and features.
We’ll work hard to get you on the road. We’ll help you choose the trim that suits your needs, and we’ll assist with financing and maintenance. See us today to find what the 2026 Traverse can offer you.
