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2026 Chevrolet Traverse vs. Ford Explorer
Buy the Traverse if you carry people and cargo: it has a roomier third row, more cargo space behind that third row, and a wider, flatter load floor. Buy the Explorer if you tow or want a rear-drive-based feel — its 5,600-lb tow rating and available V6 beat the Traverse's four-cylinder-only lineup.
Specs side by side
Starting MSRP (trim tested) — Traverse: ~$52,000 (Z71 AWD); Explorer: ~$43,000 (Active 4WD)
Engine — Traverse: 2.5L turbo I-4; Explorer: 2.3L turbo I-4 (3.0L V6 available)
Horsepower — Traverse: 328 hp; Explorer: 300 hp (400 hp V6)
Torque — Traverse: 326 lb-ft; Explorer: 310 lb-ft
Transmission — Traverse: 8-speed automatic; Explorer: 10-speed automatic
Drivetrain — Traverse: AWD; Explorer: RWD-based, 4WD available
Seating — Traverse: 7 or 8; Explorer: 6 or 7
Max towing — Traverse: 5,000 lb; Explorer: 5,600 lb
Cargo behind 3rd row — Traverse: 22.9 cu ft; Explorer: 16.5 cu ft
Max cargo — Traverse: 97.6 cu ft; Explorer: 87.8 cu ft
EPA combined — Traverse: Approx. 21 mpg; Explorer: Approx. 23 mpg
Best for the Traverse
Families who actually use the third row weekly; Big-box runs and stroller-plus-groceries cargo days; Buyers who want mild off-road looks with the Z71 package
Best for the Explorer
Towing a small boat or camper up to 5,600 lb; Drivers who prefer a rear-drive-based feel; Shoppers who want a V6 upgrade path
Verdict
Both are honest three-row family SUVs, but they win on different ground. The Traverse is the packaging champion — it swallows more behind the third row than the Explorer does, and the third row is genuinely adult-usable. The Explorer drives smaller than it is and tows more. Price the exact trims side by side before you sign: a loaded Traverse Z71 lands well above an Explorer Active.