Chevrolet Traverse vs. The Competition

The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse has a few things the 2026 Ford Explorer can't match: seating for eight, substantially more cargo space, and a larger standard touchscreen. Those differences become apparent once you start loading passengers, luggage, and everything else a busy week demands.

Stinnett Chevrolet Buick in Newport, TN, has a three-row SUV that's ready for everything from school carpools to long weekends in the Smokies. Here's how the Chevrolet Traverse compares with the Ford Explorer.

	Chevrolet Traverse	Ford Explorer
Engine	328 hp	300 hp
Engine displacement	2.5 l	2.3 l
Drivetrain	All wheel drive	All wheel drive
Fuel Capacity	21.7 gal.	20.2 gal.
Max Seating(Passengers)	8	7
Overall Length(Inches)	204.5 in.	198.8 in.
Cargo Space	22.9 cu. ft.	16.3 cu. ft.

Performance

The Chevrolet Traverse packs 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque into its turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. An eight-speed automatic transmission handles shifting, and available all-wheel drive provides additional traction on wet or slippery roads.

The Ford Explorer starts with 300 horsepower from its 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine. A more powerful 385-horsepower V6 is available, although the Chevrolet Traverse delivers stronger standard horsepower. Both SUVs can tow up to 5,000 pounds with the proper equipment, enough for many small boats heading to Douglas Lake. Each includes standard trailering equipment.

Passenger Space

The Chevrolet Traverse LT offers an eight-passenger configuration, so an extra friend can join the carpool without someone having to drive separately. The Ford Explorer tops out at seven passengers, and certain trims seat only six.

Second-row passengers also get considerably more legroom in the Chevrolet Traverse: 41.4 inches versus up to 37.5 inches in the Ford Explorer. Chevrolet's Smart Slide second-row seats help passengers reach the third row. That's useful on a family outing around Sevierville, TN, especially when everyone is climbing in and out of the car throughout the day.

Cargo Capacity

The Chevrolet Traverse has 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, compared with 16.3 cubic feet in the Ford Explorer. There's extra room for luggage, a bulky stroller, or shopping bags without folding down passenger seats.

The Chevrolet Traverse expands to 56.6 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 98 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. The Ford Explorer provides 46 and 85.8 cubic feet of space, respectively. Chevrolet's AutoSense Power Liftgate also opens automatically when it detects the key holder approaching, handy when both arms are occupied.

Interior Technology

The Chevrolet Traverse has a standard 17.7-inch touchscreen and an 11-inch digital driver display. Google built-includes Google Maps, voice assistance, and compatible apps. The generous display area makes it easier to view navigation details during complicated highway interchanges around Knoxville, TN.

The Ford Explorer uses a smaller 13.2-inch touchscreen with Ford Digital Experience. Ford includes wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, which most smartphone users prefer. Chevrolet's larger display and integrated Google navigation deserve a hands-on comparison during a test drive.

Interior Comfort

The Chevrolet Traverse includes heated front seats and a heated steering wheel on every trim. Those features are especially welcome on frosty mornings in Morristown, TN, and Chevrolet doesn't require shoppers to select a more expensive trim to get them.

The Ford Explorer has heated front seats on select trims and offers a heated steering wheel with certain equipment configurations. Chevrolet also provides an available Rear Camera Mirror, which displays a camera view behind the SUV. It's useful when passengers or cargo obstruct the view through the rear window.

Safety Technology: Watching More Than the Road Ahead

The Chevrolet Traverse comes with more than 20 standard safety and driver-assistance features. Blind Zone Steering Assist warns of potential collisions during lane changes, and Rear Cross Traffic Braking can apply the brakes when it detects approaching traffic while reversing.

Both SUVs provide automatic emergency braking and available hands-free highway driving technology. Chevrolet Super Cruise is standard on RS and High Country trims and supports hands-free operation on compatible roads. Ford BlueCruise is available on select Ford Explorer trims. Both systems require an attentive driver and appropriate service plans.

Off-Road Capability: Beyond the Pavement

The Chevrolet Traverse Z71 includes twin-clutch all-wheel drive (AWD), all-terrain tires, off-road suspension, and Hill Descent Control. Skid plate protection adds reassurance on uneven terrain, and the Z71 retains the Chevrolet Traverse's generous interior storage capacity.

The Ford Explorer Tremor counters with a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, additional ground clearance, and off-road suspension tuning. It's a capable alternative for challenging trails. The Chevrolet Traverse Z71 has the equipment for gravel roads, muddy campsites, and mountain getaways without sacrificing its passenger and cargo advantages.

Buy or Lease the Chevrolet Traverse SUV Today at Stinnett Chevrolet Buick

Browse the new inventory at Stinnett Chevrolet Buick to compare available Chevrolet Traverse LT, Z71, High Country, and RS models. The dealership also has used inventory and financing and leasing options.

To check out the interior space and explore the features in person, contact Stinnett Buick to schedule a test drive. The dealership's service center is also available for routine maintenance and repairs after purchase.

* Indicates a required field

Loading Map...

Contact our Sales Department at: (423) 415-1925

Monday8:30 am - 6:30 pm
Tuesday8:30 am - 6:30 pm
Wednesday8:30 am - 6:30 pm
Thursday8:30 am - 6:30 pm
Friday8:30 am - 6:30 pm
Saturday8:30 am - 6:00 pm
SundayClosed

Chevrolet Traverse vs. The Competition