Ford Explorer vs Chevy Traverse | Hudson, IA
Ford Explorer
Chevy Traverse
| Features | Ford Explorer | Chevy Traverse |
|---|---|---|
| MPG - City | 20 MPG | 20 MPG |
| MPG - Hwy | 27 MPG | 27 MPG |
| Seating Capacity | 6 seats | 7 seats |
| Cargo Space | 16.3 cu. ft. | 22.9 cu. ft. |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive | Front wheel drive |
| Horsepower | 300 hp @ 5,500 rpm | 328 hp @ 5,500 rpm |
| Exterior Length | 198.8 in. | 204.5 in. |
| Overall Width without Mirrors | 78.9 in. | 79.6 in. |
| Leg Room | Front 43.0 in. Rear 39.0 in. | Front 44.3 in. Rear 41.5 in. |
| Head Room | Front 40.7 in. Rear 40.5 in. | Front 42.6 in. Rear 40.0 in. |
2026 Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse: Compare Midsize 3-Row SUVs Near Hudson, IA
When searching for a three-row SUV that can handle busy family schedules, Iowa winters, and weekend travel, the 2026 Ford Explorer and the Chevy Traverse are two strong contenders. Both models offer generous passenger space, flexible cargo capacity, and modern technology. However, the Explorer stands out when you look closer at attributes like performance, towing capability, and drivetrain design. Drivers from Cedar Falls to Cedar Rapids can find the latest Ford Explorer models at Bill Colwell Ford in Hudson, IA. Here's a quick look at how the Ford Explorer compares to its class competitor.
Performance
Both the 2026 Ford Explorer and the Chevy Traverse come equipped with capable turbocharged four-cylinder engines. The Explorer comes standard with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, while the Traverse's 2.5-liter turbocharged engine generates 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque.
While the Traverse has slightly higher output on paper, the Explorer's transmission tuning and rear-drive-based platform help deliver quicker real-world acceleration. Independent Car and Driver testing has shown the Explorer reaching 60 mph in roughly six seconds, while the Traverse (7.3 seconds) trails by more than a second.
Are you shopping for something even livelier to power your La Porte City commute? The Ford Explorer offers a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (400 horsepower, 415 pound-feet of torque), standard in the ST trim and available in Platinum models. The Traverse does not offer a comparable upgrade.
Rear-Wheel Drive Architecture
One of the most significant differences between these two SUVs lies beneath the surface. The 2026 Explorer is built on a rear-wheel-drive platform, while the Traverse utilizes a front-wheel-drive architecture.
Rear-wheel drive contributes to more balanced handling, especially under load or when towing. It also delivers a more traditional SUV driving feel, which many drivers prefer. Additionally, while the Traverse offers an all-wheel-drive system, the Ford Explorer has an available Intelligent 4WD system that pairs with selectable drive modes for conditions such as snow, sand, and slippery roads.
Efficiency
Despite delivering quicker acceleration than the Traverse, the Ford Explorer also provides better fuel efficiency. The standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine achieves an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined in rear-wheel-drive form and 23 mpg combined when equipped with 4WD. The FWD Traverse has EPA ratings of 22 mpg in FWD and 21 mpg combined with AWD.
Off-Road Capability
Both SUVs offer rugged specialty trims with an off-road focus. The Chevy Traverse Z71 includes all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, skid plates, and selectable drive modes.
For 2026, the Explorer lineup expands its off-road credentials with the new Tremor trim. This model features a lifted suspension, special 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, and a limited-slip rear differential. It also boasts Tremor-specific suspension tuning for enhanced control over uneven surfaces, as well as a more potent 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine with substantial torque for demanding terrain.
Value
Another advantage the 2026 Ford Explorer often holds over the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse is its starting price. Despite being similarly or even better equipped across mainstream trim levels, the Explorer typically enters the lineup at a lower MSRP than the Traverse, making it a more accessible option for many buyers on the front end of their purchase. The base Explorer Active trim's MSRP starts more than $2,000 below the Traverse's starting MSRP. Additionally, mid and higher-grade Explorer models are also priced more competitively than similarly equipped Traverse models.
Test-Drive a New Ford Explorer near Waterloo and Independence
Get in touch with Bill Colwell Ford to learn more about the 2026 Ford Explorer, including its configuration options, financing and leasing offers, and the latest incentives. We'll also gladly assist you in reserving a new Ford SUV tailored to your needs and lifestyle. Would you like to check out the accommodations, features, and performance of a new Ford Explorer firsthand? We welcome you to schedule a test drive or visit our dealership in Hudson, IA, at your convenience. We would love to give you a tour.
How can we help?
* Indicates a required field
-
Bill Colwell Ford
238 Waterloo Road
Hudson, IA 50643
- Sales: 319-600-7345
Loading Map...