2026 Chevy Traverse vs. 2026 Ford Explorer
See how the three-row Traverse stacks up against the Ford Explorer on seating, cargo room and available technology before you decide which midsize SUV is right for your family.
Why This Comparison Matters
Two Popular Three-Row SUVs, One Big Decision
Families cross-shopping midsize SUVs in South Bend and Mishawaka often put the Chevy Traverse and Ford Explorer side by side. Both offer three rows of seating and plenty of cargo room, but the Traverse pulls ahead with a larger touchscreen, more cargo space behind every row and available driver-assistance technology that isn’t offered on Explorer. Here’s a closer look at how the two SUVs compare.
Compare for Yourself
2026 Traverse vs. 2026 Ford Explorer
| Feature |  2026 Traverse |  2026 Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Max Seating Capacity | 8* | 7 |
| Center Touchscreen Size | 17.7 in. | 13.2 in. |
| Heated Front Seats | Standard | Available |
| Heated Steering Wheel | Standard | Available |
| Trailering Hitch | Standard | Available |
| Cargo Volume Behind 2nd Row | 56.6 cu. ft.** | 46 cu. ft. |
| Cargo Volume Behind 3rd Row | 22.9 cu. ft.** | 16.3 cu. ft. |
*Available on LT with second-row bench seat. Z71, RS and High Country seat seven. **Based on latest available competitive data, with second- and/or third-row seats folded flat. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution. Source: chevrolet.com
Technology
A Bigger Screen at the Center of It All
Traverse features a 17.7-inch diagonal center touchscreen — more than 4 inches larger than the Explorer’s 13.2-inch display — along with Google built-in for maps, apps and voice assistance.
Available Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology and a Rear Camera Mirror give Traverse drivers confidence features the Explorer lineup doesn’t offer.
Space & Comfort
Room to Spread Out
With up to 98 cu. ft. of best-in-class max cargo volume behind the front row, Traverse gives families noticeably more room than Explorer for gear, groceries and everything in between.
Standard heated front seats and a standard heated steering wheel help keep every trip comfortable, even on the coldest Michiana mornings.
Ready to See the Traverse in Person?
Visit Gates Chevy World in Mishawaka to test drive the 2026 Chevy Traverse and see why it outperforms the Ford Explorer where it counts.
Traverse vs. Explorer — Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Chevy Traverse bigger than the Ford Explorer?
Yes. The 2026 Traverse measures 204.4 inches long with a 121-inch wheelbase, compared to the Explorer’s 198.7-inch length and 119.1-inch wheelbase, giving Traverse more front, second-row and third-row leg room.
How much cargo space does the Traverse have compared to the Explorer?
Traverse offers up to 98 cu. ft. of max cargo volume behind the front row, 56.6 cu. ft. behind the second row and 22.9 cu. ft. behind the third row — all more than the Explorer’s 85.8, 46 and 16.3 cu. ft. figures, respectively.
Does the Traverse seat more people than the Explorer?
The Traverse LT can seat up to 8 passengers with the available second-row bench seat, while Z71, RS and High Country seat 7. The Ford Explorer seats up to 7 passengers.
What is the towing capacity of the Chevy Traverse?
When properly equipped with the included trailering equipment, the 2026 Chevy Traverse has a standard towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs.
Does the Traverse have a bigger touchscreen than the Explorer?
Yes. Traverse features a 17.7-inch diagonal center touchscreen, more than 4 inches larger than the Explorer’s 13.2-inch touchscreen.
Where can I see the Chevy Traverse near South Bend and Mishawaka, IN?
Gates Chevy World in Mishawaka, IN carries a wide selection of new Chevy Traverse SUVs. Browse current inventory or contact the dealership to schedule a test drive.
Disclaimers & Sources
Comparison table figures for the 2026 Traverse and 2026 Ford Explorer sourced from chevrolet.com/suvs/traverse-vs-ford-explorer.
*Available on LT with second-row bench seat. Z71, RS and High Country seat seven.
**Based on latest available competitive data. With second- and third-row seats folded flat. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution.
Maximum trailering ratings are intended for comparison purposes only. Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The trailering capacity of your specific vehicle may vary. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can trailer.
Always pay attention while driving and when using Super Cruise. Always use Super Cruise in accordance with local laws. Do not use a hand-held device. Requires active Super Cruise plan or trial. Terms apply. Visit chevrolet.com/super-cruise for compatible roads and full details.
The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Click here to see all Chevrolet vehicles' destination freight charges. Dealer sets the final price.
Ford Explorer specifications sourced from ford.com/suvs/explorer. Ford maximum towing capacity and cargo volume figures are current as of the date this page was published; visit ford.com for the most current specifications and full footnote details, as some manufacturer footnote text is not accessible outside the interactive Ford site.
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