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The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse and 2026 Ford Explorer are three-row midsize SUVs designed for families, daily commuting, and longer trips. The Chevy Traverse offers more standard horsepower, greater maximum cargo capacity, a larger standard touchscreen, and available seating for eight passengers. The Ford Explorer provides competitive towing capability, higher EPA-estimated highway fuel economy with its standard engine, and an available V6 for drivers seeking additional performance. For families comparing SUVs in Lincoln, Omaha, and surrounding Nebraska communities, the Traverse stands out for its spacious interior and practical technology. Explore the key differences in performance, passenger space, safety, and standard features to determine which SUV best suits your needs at Sid Dillon.
2026 Chevrolet Traverse |
Vs. |
2026 Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder | Standard Engine | 2.3L EcoBoost® 4-cylinder |
| 328 hp | Standard Horsepower | 300 hp |
| 326 lb-ft | Standard Torque | 310 lb-ft |
| 17.7-inch touchscreen | Standard Center Display | 13.2-inch touchscreen |
| Up to 8 passengers | Maximum Seating Capacity | Up to 7 passengers |
| 98 cubic feet | Maximum Cargo Volume | 85.8 cubic feet |
| 5,000 pounds | Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 pounds |
Specifications reflect manufacturer-published figures for the 2026 model year. Maximum seating and cargo measurements depend on configuration. Towing capacity assumes the appropriate equipment, and actual capabilities vary with vehicle configuration, passengers, and cargo.
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse produces 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque with its standard 2.5L turbocharged engine, exceeding the 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque produced by the Ford Explorer’s standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine. Both three-row SUVs offer a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Although the Traverse delivers more standard engine output, the Explorer also offers a stronger available V6 engine on select trims.
For Nebraska drivers comparing engine performance, transmission options, and towing capability, the following specifications highlight the differences between the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT and Ford Explorer Active 100A.
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT features a standard 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Its 328 horsepower provides responsive acceleration for highway merging, passing, and carrying passengers or cargo. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available for drivers seeking additional traction in changing Nebraska road conditions.
2.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Engine
The 2026 Ford Explorer Active 100A includes a 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission. It produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, providing capable performance for everyday driving and highway travel. Rear-wheel drive is standard, while Intelligent 4WD is available for additional traction.
2.3L EcoBoost® Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Engine
Which SUV has more power? The Chevrolet Traverse provides 28 more horsepower and 16 additional lb-ft of torque than the standard Ford Explorer engine. However, drivers seeking greater maximum engine output should also consider the Explorer’s available 3.0L EcoBoost V6, which produces up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque on select models. The Traverse uses the same 328-horsepower engine throughout its trim lineup.
The 2026 Ford Explorer offers higher EPA-estimated highway fuel economy than the Chevrolet Traverse when comparing their standard rear-wheel-drive and front-wheel-drive configurations. The Explorer with its 2.3L EcoBoost engine and rear-wheel drive achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG city and 29 MPG highway, while the front-wheel-drive Traverse achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG city and 26 MPG highway.
The Traverse offers available all-wheel drive, including a specialized twin-clutch AWD system on the Z71 trim. The Explorer offers available Intelligent 4WD and selectable drive modes. For drivers navigating snowy streets, wet highways, or rural Nebraska roads, either available traction system may be beneficial. Proper winter tires, cautious driving, and vehicle maintenance remain important regardless of drivetrain.
Fuel economy varies based on drivetrain, engine, driving conditions, temperature, and vehicle load. Buyers should compare EPA estimates for the specific model and configuration they are considering.
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse offers more maximum cargo space and greater available seating capacity than the Ford Explorer. The Traverse provides up to 98 cubic feet of cargo volume with the rear seating rows folded, compared with 85.8 cubic feet in the Explorer Active 100A. The Traverse can also accommodate up to eight passengers with an available second-row bench seat, while the Explorer seats up to seven.
These differences matter for families who regularly transport children, sports equipment, groceries, luggage, or larger items around Lincoln and Omaha. The Traverse’s additional second-row legroom can also improve passenger comfort during longer drives. Before exploring our trade-in process, compare the interior measurements below.
Which SUV has more cargo space? The Chevrolet Traverse provides approximately 12.2 additional cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity compared with the Ford Explorer Active 100A. It also offers more space behind the third row, providing 22.9 cubic feet compared with the Explorer’s 16.3 cubic feet. This additional storage area can be especially useful when all three seating rows are occupied and families still need room for luggage, strollers, or other belongings.
Cargo measurements are manufacturer-reported maximum volumes. Cargo and load capacity are limited by weight and distribution. Passenger-space measurements and cargo capacity may vary with vehicle trim and equipment.
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT includes a standard 17.7-inch center touchscreen, an 11-inch digital Driver Information Center, and an AutoSense power liftgate. The Ford Explorer Active 100A includes a 13.2-inch center touchscreen, Ford Digital Experience, and a manual liftgate. Both SUVs provide modern infotainment systems, digital displays, and convenient features for everyday driving, although their standard equipment and interfaces differ.
The Traverse LT emphasizes accessible technology and family convenience with a larger standard center display and hands-free cargo access. Its Google built-in infotainment experience supports compatible Google services, with certain functions requiring account setup or an eligible service plan.
The Explorer Active 100A includes a modern infotainment system with wireless smartphone integration and driver assistance technology. As the entry-level equipment group, it has fewer convenience features than the Explorer Active 200A, including a manual rather than power-operated liftgate.
Which SUV has the larger touchscreen? The Chevrolet Traverse has the larger standard center display at 17.7 inches, compared with 13.2 inches in the Explorer. That is a 4.5-inch difference measured diagonally. The Traverse also offers the convenience of a standard AutoSense power liftgate on LT, while the Explorer Active 100A uses a manual liftgate. The Explorer Active 200A adds a power liftgate and additional comfort features, making it important to compare the correct equipment groups when shopping.
Both the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse and Ford Explorer offer standard safety and driver assistance technologies designed to help drivers recognize hazards and respond to changing traffic conditions. The Traverse includes Chevy Safety Assist and more than 20 standard safety and driver assistance features, while the Explorer Active 100A includes Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ technology. Available equipment varies by model and trim.
The Traverse provides a comprehensive selection of driver assistance technologies intended to support awareness during daily commutes, highway travel, and parking maneuvers. Chevrolet offers features that help drivers monitor surrounding vehicles, recognize potential collisions, and respond to traffic conditions.
Notable Traverse safety and driver assistance features include:
The Ford Explorer Active 100A includes Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+, which combines driver assistance features intended to support lane awareness, following distance, and collision avoidance. Ford also offers additional technologies on eligible higher trims and equipment configurations.
Notable Explorer safety and driver assistance features include:
For drivers considering hands-free highway assistance, the Traverse offers available Super Cruise technology, including on the RS and High Country trims. Select Explorer configurations offer Ford BlueCruise. Both systems operate only under designated conditions and on compatible roads. Drivers must remain attentive, follow applicable operating requirements, and be prepared to take control when necessary. These systems do not make either SUV fully autonomous.
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse offers four trims: LT, Z71, High Country, and RS. The Ford Explorer lineup includes Active 100A, Active, ST-Line, Tremor, ST, and Platinum. Both vehicles provide options suited to different priorities, including everyday family transportation, enhanced traction, premium comfort, and distinctive exterior styling.
The Traverse LT may appeal to families prioritizing passenger capacity, cargo space, and standard convenience features. The Z71 provides a more specialized AWD option for drivers who encounter unpaved roads or changing traction conditions. High Country and RS models add premium amenities and advanced technologies. The Explorer offers broader engine choices, including the available high-output V6, making it worth considering for shoppers who prioritize maximum horsepower.
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse is a strong choice for Nebraska families prioritizing interior space, available eight-passenger seating, standard horsepower, and convenient technology. The Ford Explorer may be preferable for drivers who prioritize higher highway fuel economy with the standard engine, rear-wheel-drive performance characteristics, or the available 400-horsepower V6. Both SUVs provide three-row seating, available enhanced traction systems, and towing capability for recreational activities.
When comparing these SUVs for driving in Lincoln, Omaha, and surrounding communities, consider your regular passenger count, cargo requirements, highway mileage, and preferred features.
Ultimately, the Chevrolet Traverse distinguishes itself with its combination of standard performance, passenger flexibility, and generous cargo capacity. Families who need a practical three-row SUV with room for passengers and everyday essentials may find its interior layout particularly useful.
Sid Dillon helps drivers throughout Lincoln, Omaha, and eastern Nebraska explore the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse and compare available trims, technology, and financing options. With its standard 328-horsepower turbocharged engine, available eight-passenger seating, 17.7-inch touchscreen, and up to 98 cubic feet of cargo volume, the Traverse offers a practical combination of performance and family versatility.
Browse our available Chevrolet Traverse inventory to compare LT, Z71, High Country, and RS models. You can also explore current new vehicle specials, estimate the value of your current vehicle, or discuss available financing and leasing options with the Sid Dillon team. Contact us to learn more about vehicle availability, schedule a test drive, and experience the Traverse’s passenger space and technology in person.
Yes. The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse is longer overall and provides greater maximum cargo volume than the Ford Explorer. The Traverse offers up to 98 cubic feet of cargo space, compared with 85.8 cubic feet in the Explorer Active 100A. It also provides more second-row legroom and greater cargo capacity behind the third row, making it particularly useful for families who regularly transport passengers and luggage.
The Chevrolet Traverse has more standard horsepower than the Ford Explorer. Its 2.5L turbocharged engine produces 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, compared with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft from the Explorer’s standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine. However, select Explorer trims offer an available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 producing up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, exceeding the Traverse’s maximum engine output.
The Chevrolet Traverse offers more third-row legroom and cargo volume than the Ford Explorer. The Traverse provides approximately 32.3 inches of third-row legroom and 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. The Explorer offers 31.8 inches of third-row legroom and 16.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the third row. The additional Traverse cargo space is useful for groceries, strollers, and luggage when all seating rows are in use.
Yes. The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT can seat up to eight passengers when equipped with the available second-row bench seat. The standard LT seating arrangement accommodates seven passengers with second-row captain’s chairs. The Traverse Z71, RS, and High Country seat seven passengers. The 2026 Ford Explorer accommodates up to seven passengers, depending on its second-row seating configuration.
Both the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse and Ford Explorer offer a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Traverse includes trailering equipment designed to support its rated towing capability, while the Explorer offers appropriate trailering equipment depending on configuration. Actual towing capacity depends on vehicle equipment, passenger weight, cargo, and trailer setup. Always confirm the specific vehicle’s towing ratings before connecting a trailer.
Both SUVs offer available traction-enhancing drivetrains suitable for changing Nebraska weather conditions. The Chevrolet Traverse offers available all-wheel drive, including a twin-clutch AWD system on the Z71, while the Explorer offers Intelligent 4WD. These systems can help manage traction on slippery surfaces, but neither eliminates the risks associated with snow or ice. Appropriate tires, maintained brakes, and careful driving are essential for winter travel. The best choice depends on the drivetrain configuration, equipment, and driving conditions you expect to encounter.
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