In the realm of American automakers, Chevrolet and Ford have long been rivals, capturing the interest of car enthusiasts and buyers alike. This competition extends across various vehicle types, including the popular three-row crossover SUV segment. As we look toward 2026, the debate heats up between the Chevrolet Traverse and the Ford Explorer, both vying for the position of the quintessential family vehicle. Auto experts at Edmunds have rigorously tested these models to determine which one ultimately fulfills the diverse needs of modern families.

When it comes to space and comfort, the Chevrolet Traverse emerges as a top contender. It offers a generous amount of room, accommodating up to eight passengers—a notable advantage for larger families or those who frequently travel with groups. Although the rear seats might feel a bit firm and flat, the ample space ensures that even adults can comfortably sit in the third row. Additionally, the Traverse boasts a large cargo area, capable of storing a significant amount of luggage behind the third row, outshining the Ford Explorer in this aspect.

In contrast, the Ford Explorer falls short in terms of spaciousness. Its second-row seats offer less legroom compared to the Traverse, and the third row is more suitable for children or teenagers rather than adults. While the Explorer can accommodate up to seven passengers, its seating capacity is slightly less than the Traverse. The Explorer’s cargo space, though decent for a three-row crossover, does not match the Traverse’s capacity. Its underfloor storage provides some extra room, but it still can’t rival the Traverse’s overall storage capabilities.

Ultimately, when evaluating space and comfort, the Chevrolet Traverse takes the lead, making it an attractive choice for those prioritizing interior room and versatility.

Turning to technology, the competition between these two SUVs continues…

Technology

Edmunds scores the Explorer’s in-car technology higher, but it’s a tight gap, and there’s certainly a chance you’ll prefer the Chevrolet’s 17.7-inch touchscreen to Ford’s 13.2-inch touchscreen. That said, size isn’t everything, and we slightly prefer the look, layout and functionality of the Explorer’s latest tech interface. Both systems feature Google Built-in capability, which includes integrated Google Maps and Google Assistant, the latter of which you can effectively use for voice commands of various vehicle functions. Both SUVs have wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration.

The Explorer also comes with a few more driver assistance tech as standard, including lane-centering steering assistance for the adaptive cruise control system. To get that in the Traverse, you have to step up to the full hands-free highway driving assist system known as Super Cruise. That works very well, but the Explorer matches it with Ford’s similar BlueCruise hands-free driving system.

Advantage: Ford Explorer

Driving and fuel economy

If you’re asking which of these is more enjoyable to drive, the answer is the Ford Explorer, and it’s not even close. It accelerates more quickly and is more stable and secure when going around corners or performing emergency handling maneuvers. That’s true for the Explorer with its standard 300-horsepower engine or its available 400-horsepower V6 found in the Explorer ST. The Explorer is surprisingly agile yet also smooth and comfortable.

Superlatives are much harder to scrounge together for the disappointing Traverse. It may be more powerful with its 328 horsepower than the base Explorer engine, but its acceleration was slower in Edmunds’ testing. Its overly firm ride and ponderous handling don’t do it any favors either.

The Traverse’s fuel economy is more competitive, but it still trails the Explorer. The Ford’s standard engine gets an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined with standard rear-wheel drive and 23 mpg combined with all-wheel drive. The Traverse gets an estimated 22 mpg combined with front-wheel drive or 21 mpg combined with all-wheel drive.

Advantage: Ford Explorer

Pricing and value

The Traverse’s size advantage can’t be discounted when talking about value — you’re literally getting more SUV for the money. The Explorer starts at $42,280, and the Traverse starts at $42,695. Adding all-wheel drive costs $2,000 on both SUVs. So, they’re similar to start and comparably equipped, too. Pricing remains close when comparing midgrade models, but the Traverse’s top trims are far pricier than the Explorer’s despite comparable equipment. Even the 400-horsepower Explorer ST costs less to start than the loaded Traverse RS, which is sportier in appearance only.

Although the Traverse’s size advantage certainly counts toward its value, so do all of the Explorer’s various advantages.

Advantage: Ford Explorer

Edmunds says

A big interior is a key attribute for a three-row SUV, and the Chevrolet Traverse certainly delivers on this front. But the Ford Explorer’s advantages in nearly every other aspect make it Edmunds’ recommended choice.

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This story was provided to The Associated Press by the automotive website Edmunds. James Riswick is a contributor at Edmunds.