Explorer vs Chevy Traverse
2026 Ford Explorer® vs. 2026 Chevy Traverse | Dundee, MI
If you’re in the market for a three-row mid-size SUV that is ready to handle your family’s active lifestyle, consider either the 2026 Ford Explorer® or the 2026 Chevy Equinox. Both models offer spirited performance, a thoughtfully appointed interior, adaptable passenger and cargo space, and innovative technologies to elevate your driving experience. Which one aligns best with your specific needs? Learn more about each model with this detailed comparison guide prepared by the team at Spirit Ford.
For a more in-depth overview of the Ford Explorer and its key features, refer to our comprehensive review.
Browse our inventory to find your preferred Ford Explorer trim at our dealership in Dundee, MI; match it with one of our attractive offers to secure a competitive rate. We’re here to answer any questions you may have — give us a call at (734) 529-5521 or contact us online.
Quick Jump
Navigate to a specific research section to learn more:
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer vs. 2026 Chevy Traverse Engines & Performance
Ready for your daily commutes and weekend fun getaways, the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Chevy Traverse are both equipped with spirited powertrains tailored to your driving style. The Explorer features two robust engine options, including the standard 2.3L EcoBoost® inline four-cylinder (I4) with its 300 horsepower that achieves up to 29 highway MPG, and the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 that increases output to 400 horsepower. Each is paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission and available with either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD).
The Chevy Traverse features a 2.5L turbo four-cylinder engine producing 328 horsepower, which delivers a modest advantage over the standard Explorer engine, but falls short of the available 3.0L EcoBoost V6. City MPG is comparable for both models, with the Explorer offering a slight increase in highway MPG. Each SUV model has a 5,000-pound towing capacity.
Compare engine specifications for both models.
| 2026 Model | Ford Explorer | Chevy Traverse | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.3L EcoBoost I4 | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 2.5L turbo four-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 300 HP | 400 HP | 328 HP |
| Torque | 310 lb.-ft. | 415 lb.-ft. | 326 lb.-ft. |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 20 / 29 | 19 / 25 | 20 / 26 |
| Max. Towing | 5,000 lbs. | 5,000 lbs. | |
| Transmission | Ten-speed automatic | Eight-speed automatic | |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD | FWD / AWD | |
2026 Ford Explorer vs. 2026 Chevy Traverse Exterior Design
Commanding attention wherever the day takes you, the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Chevy Traverse make a statement with their bold contours and modern exterior styling. Both SUVs offer available 18- or 20-inch wheels, while the Explorer also features optional 21-inch wheels and the Traverse is available with 22-inch wheels. LED headlamps and taillamps are standard on either model. A hands-free power liftgate is available on the Explorer and standard on the Traverse. Blacked-out exterior accents are available on select trims for either SUV. The Explorer features signature LED lighting and integrated fog lamps. The Explorer features an available panoramic fixed-glass moonroof with a power shade, while the Traverse offers an available panoramic power sunroof.
For added versatility, a Class III Trailer Tow package is standard in the Explorer for confident hauling capability.
Shared available exterior design features include:
- 18 or 20-in. wheels
- LED headlamps and taillamps
- Heated, power-folding outside mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators
- Power liftgate
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- Roof rack side rails
Available 2026 Ford Explorer exterior features include:
- 21-in. wheels
- LED signature lighting and fog lamps
- Panoramic fixed glass moonroof with power shade
- Class III Trailer Tow Package
Available 2026 Chevy Traverse exterior features include:
- 22-in. wheels
- LED lighting with walk-up and exit animation
- Blacked-out exterior accents
- Panoramic power sunroof
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer vs. 2026 Chevy Traverse Interior Design
The 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Chevy Traverse both offer comfortable interior accommodations with a range of premium convenience features. Each features available cloth or leather seat upholstery; the Explorer also offers ActiveX® upholstery and available multicontour front seats with Active Motion®, and the Traverse features available Evotex upholstery. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel are standard in the Traverse and available in the Explorer, while available ventilated front seats and heated second-row seats can be found in both models.
Shared interior design features include:
- Cloth or leather seat upholstery
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated second-row seats
- Power-folding third-row seat
- Heated, flat-bottom steering wheel
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Ambient interior lighting
- Remote start
- Active noise cancellation
Available Ford Explorer interior design features include:
- ActiveX/cloth or ActiveX seat upholstery with Miko® inserts
- Ten-way power driver’s seat
- Eight-way power front passenger’s seat
- Multicontour front seats with Active Motion
- Second-row captain’s seats with E-Z Entry and armrests or 35/30/35-split second-row bench seat
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Available Chevy Traverse interior design features include:
- Evotex seat upholstery
- Eight-way power driver’s seat with two-way power lumbar
- Six-way power front passenger’s seat
- Four-way power front seat lumbar support
- Second-row bench seat or bucket seats
- Power tilt and telescoping steering column
2026 Ford Explorer vs. 2026 Chevy Traverse Size & Cargo Space
Both the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Chevy Traverse provide impressive passenger and cargo space throughout their three-row interiors. The Explorer boasts spacious seating for up to seven passengers. However, the Traverse is slightly longer in length, accommodating up to eight passengers and offering increased cargo space with both rear rows folded down. While each model presents comparable front- and third-row legroom, the Traverse provides moderately increased second-row legroom.
Compare interior specifications for both models.
| Ford Explorer | 2026 Model | Chevy Traverse |
|---|---|---|
| 198.7 in. | Length | 204.4 in. |
| 119.1 in. | Wheelbase | 121 in. |
| Seven | Max. Seating | Eight |
| 40.7 / 40.5 / 38.9 in. | Headroom (First/Second/Third Row) | 42.6 / 39.9 / 38.2 in. |
| 43 / 37.5 / 31.8 in. | Legroom (First/Second/Third Row) | 44.2 / 41.4 / 32.1 in. |
| 85.8 / 46 / 16.3 cu.-ft. | Cargo Space (Max./Behind Second Row/Behind Third Row) | 97.6 / 56.6 / 22.9 cu.-ft. |
2026 Ford Explorer vs. 2026 Chevy Traverse Technology
Staying connected to your digital world is easy in the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Chevy Traverse. Standard on the Ford Explorer is a 12.3-inch instrument panel productivity screen and a 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen. A 17.7-inch advanced infotainment display with Google built-in is standard in the Chevy Traverse. Enjoy your favorite playlists on the go with an available 14-speaker B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with a subwoofer in the Explorer and an available 12-speaker Bose® premium audio system in the Traverse. Wireless phone charging is available only in the Traverse.
Shared technology features include:
- SiriusXM® with 360L capability
- USB ports
- Universal garage door opener
Available Ford Explorer technology features include:
- 12.3-in. instrument cluster display
- Ford Digital Experience with 13.2-in. infotainment display
- B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen with 14 speakers, including subwoofer
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- 4G/5G modem
- HD Radio™
- 110V/150W AC power outlet
Available Chevy Traverse technology features include:
- 11-in. driver information center
- 17.7-in. multimedia touchscreen display
- 12-speaker Bose premium audio system with a subwoofer
- Navigation capability
- Google built-in compatibility
- Wireless phone charging
- Wi-Fi® hotspot capability
- Rear camera mirror
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer vs. 2026 Chevy Traverse Driver Assist & Safety Features
Peace of mind comes standard in both the 2026 Ford Explorer and 2026 Chevy Traverse, each presenting a range of innovative driver assist and safety features. The Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ suite is standard on the Ford Explorer, while the Traverse is equipped with the Chevy Safety Assist suite. Intuitive features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping capability, automatic emergency braking, reverse park assist, surround view camera, and a rearview camera are included on both models. Each features available hands-free highway driving technology for enhanced confidence on extended journeys, including Ford BlueCruise in the Explorer and Super Cruise® in the Traverse.
Shared safety functions include:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic emergency braking
- Rearview camera
- 360-degree camera
- Lane keeping system
- Rear cross-traffic braking
- Rear parking sensors
- Speed sign recognition
- Auto high-beam headlights
Available Ford Explorer safety features include:
- BLIS® (blind spot information system)
- Intersection assist
- Post-collision braking
- Front parking sensors
- AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control™)
- Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving
Available Chevy Traverse safety features include:
- Blind zone steering assist
- Intersection automatic emergency braking
- Super Cruise hands-free driving technology
- LED reflective windshield collision alert
- Front pedestrian and bicyclist braking
- Side bicyclist alert
- Hill descent control
- Rear pedestrian alert
- Enhanced automatic park assist
- Driver attention assist
- Safety alert seat
- Hitch guidance with hitch view
2025 Ford Explorer® vs. Chevy Traverse | Interior, Specs, & Size
If you’re in the market for a three-row, family-friendly SUV, you’ve likely come across the 2025 Ford Explorer® and Chevy Traverse. Handle a wide variety of driving needs with the versatility, power, and technology of these capable vehicles. Continue reading this 2025 Ford Explorer and Chevy Traverse comparison page created for you by the team at Spirit Ford in Dundee, MI, to see their differences.
To learn more about the Explorer, be sure to visit our other resources, including our Explorer review and Explorer interior review. Should you decide the Explorer is right for you, find one that interests you in our inventory and consider pairing it with one our offers. We’re always happy to answer any questions, so feel free to contact us online or over the phone at (734) 529-5521.
2025 Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse Engine Specs
The 2025 Ford Explorer and Chevy Traverse are powered by capable engines ready to handle your family’s driving needs. The Ford Explorer has two options to choose from, including the 2.3L EcoBoost® turbo inline four-cylinder (I4) and 3.0L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 engines, which offer balanced power. Under the hood of the Chevy Traverse is a 2.5L turbo four-cylinder engine. Both SUVs can tow up to 5,000 pounds. The Ford Explorer has the available Terrain Management System™, which adds various drive modes for tackling adverse conditions.
See how the engines compare in the following table.
|
Ford Explorer |
2025 Model |
Chevy Traverse |
|
|
2.3L EcoBoost turbo I4 |
3.0L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 |
Engine |
2.5L turbo four-cylinder |
|
300 HP |
400 HP |
Horsepower |
328 HP |
|
310 lb.-ft. |
415 lb.-ft. |
Torque |
326 lb.-ft. |
|
Ten-speed automatic transmission |
Transmission |
Eight-speed automatic |
|
|
RWD / 4WD |
Drivetrain |
FWD / AWD |
|
|
20 / 29 |
18 / 25 |
MPG (City/Hwy) |
20 / 27 |
|
5,000 lbs. |
Max. Towing |
5,000 lbs. |
|
2025 Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse Interior Design
Bring exciting amenities on every trip with the well-designed interiors of the 2025 Ford Explorer and Chevy Traverse. Enjoy premium seat materials in either vehicle, including available leather. You can find a ten-way power driver’s seat in the Ford Explorer for maximum adjustability and comfort, and an eight-way power driver’s seat in the Chevy Traverse. Uniquely, the Ford Explorer has available Active Motion® massage for the front seats, helping you relax on your daily drives.
Available Ford Explorer interior features include:
- Unique cloth, ActiveX®, or leather seat upholstery
- Ten-way power driver’s seat with memory
- Six-way power front passenger’s seat
- Second-row 35/30/35 split-fold-flat bench seat or captain’s chairs
- Third-row 50/50 split-fold bench or PowerFold® seats
- Heated and ventilated, multicontour front seats with Active Motion massage
- Second-row heated seats
- Heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Twin-panel moonroof
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Ambient interior lighting
- Power tilt/telescoping steering column
2025 Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse Size & Cargo Capacity
The 2025 Ford Explorer and Chevy Traverse both bring expansive interiors ready to accommodate passengers and cargo comfortably. Seat up to seven passengers in the Ford Explorer, or eight in the Chevy Traverse. When it comes to storage, the Ford Explorer can handle up to 85.8 cubic feet of cargo, while the Chevy Traverse has a maximum cargo volume of 97.6 cubic feet.
See how the interior specifications compare in the following table.
|
Ford Explorer |
2025 Model |
Chevy Traverse |
|
Seven |
Max. Passenger Capacity |
Eight |
|
16.3 cu.-ft. |
Cargo Space Behind Third Row |
22.9 cu.-ft. |
|
46 cu.-ft. |
Cargo Space Behind Second Row |
56.6 cu.-ft. |
|
85.8 cu.-ft. |
Max. Cargo Space |
97.6 cu.-ft. |
2025 Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse Technology
Intuitive technology is right at your fingertips inside the 2025 Ford Explorer and Chevy Traverse. Keep key information easily read with the available 12.3-inch productivity screen of the Ford Explorer, or the Chevy Traverse 11-inch driver information center. The Ford Explorer has a standard 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen and the Chevy Traverse has a 17.7-inch touchscreen. Both have access to helpful apps and features, like Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and Wi-Fi® hotspot capability. If you’re looking to experience next-level sound, consider the 14-speaker B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® in the Ford Explorer or the ten-speaker Bose® premium audio system in the Chevy Traverse.
Available Ford Explorer technology features include:
- Instrument panel cluster with 12.3-in. color productivity screen
- Six speakers or 10- or 14-speaker B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen
- 13.2-in. infotainment touchscreen
- Enhanced voice recognition
- FordPass® Connect with 5G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability
- SiriusXM® with 360L capability
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- HD Radio™
- Wireless charging pad
2025 Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse Safety Features
The 2025 Ford Explorer and Chevy Traverse are packed with advanced safety features ready to enhance your every driving experience. The Ford Explorer is standard with the Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ suite, while the Chevy Traverse has the Chevy Safety Assist. You’ll find a lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and a rearview camera standard on either. Additionally, the Ford Explorer has adaptive cruise control with stop and go and lane centering standard for easing long highway drives.
Available Ford Explorer safety features include:
- Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+
- Adaptive cruise control with stop and go and lane centering
- Auto high beams
- BLIS® (blind spot information system) with cross-traffic alert, exit warning, and trailer coverage
- Evasive steering assist
- Intersection Assist 2.0
- Lane-keeping system
- Pre-Collision Assist® with automatic emergency braking
- Rear cross-traffic braking
- Rearview camera
- Reverse parking assist
- Front and side parking sensors
- Trailer sway control
- 360-degree camera with split view
New Ford Explorer for Sale in Dundee, MI
Spirit Ford is where you’ll find the new Ford Explorer for sale. Browse our inventory to find the Explorer trim that will keep up with your busy schedule. Schedule a test drive at our Ford dealership in Dundee, MI; consider pairing it with an attractive offer. Questions? Call us at (734) 529-5521 or message us online.
* Pricing - All vehicle pricing shown is assumed to be correct and accurate. Incentives, credit restrictions, qualifying programs, residency, and fees may raise, lower, or otherwise augment monthly payments. Additionally, incentives offered by the manufacturer are subject to change and may fluctuate or differ based on region and other considerations. Unless otherwise noted or specified, pricing shown does not include title, registration, dealer installed options, or tax fees and costs. * MPG - Vehicle information, as well as features and other inclusions, may vary by model and are based exclusively on standard equipment. No claims, warranties, or guarantees have been made related to the accuracy of customer payments, model equipment, or vehicle pricing. Please call with any questions you might have and to reassert the accuracy of any information presented here. A/Z Plan Pin required to be eligible for new car pricing being advertised