2026 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 2026 Ford Explorer
Comparison Near Des Moines, IA
Compare Three-Row SUVs at Willis Chevrolet
View InventoryContact Us2026 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 2026 Ford Explorer
Comparison Near Des Moines, IA
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse and 2026 Ford Explorer are two of the most popular three-row SUVs for families seeking passenger space, modern technology, advanced safety features, and everyday versatility. Both models are designed to handle daily commutes, family road trips, youth sports schedules, and weekend adventures while offering available all-wheel drive and impressive capability.
The Chevrolet Traverse competes directly with the Ford Explorer in the midsize SUV segment. The Traverse offers seating for up to eight passengers, up to 97.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity, a standard 17.7-inch touchscreen, and available Super Cruise® hands-free driving technology. The Ford Explorer provides strong capability, multiple trim options, and a long-standing reputation among family SUV shoppers. Drivers throughout Granger, Des Moines, Johnston, Waukee, Urbandale, Ankeny, Adel, and surrounding Central Iowa communities frequently compare these SUVs because they want a vehicle that balances comfort, utility, technology, and value.
Willis Chevrolet of Granger sells the Chevrolet Traverse and serves drivers throughout Central Iowa. If you're researching the best three-row SUV near Des Moines, this comparison highlights the key differences between the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse and the 2026 Ford Explorer.
Quick Verdict: Traverse or Explorer? Both SUVs provide strong capability, family-friendly interiors, and modern technology. The Ford Explorer offers standard three-row utility, while the Chevrolet Traverse delivers more passenger space, more cargo room, larger technology displays, and greater everyday practicality for many families.
2026 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 2026 Ford Explorer
Specifications
| Specification | 2026 Chevrolet Traverse | 2026 Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Turbocharged I-4 | 2.3L EcoBoost® Turbo I-4 |
| Horsepower | 328 HP | 300 HP |
| Torque | 326 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 10-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD or Available AWD | RWD or Available AWD |
| Seating Capacity | Up to 8 Passengers | Up to 7 Passengers |
| Maximum Cargo Capacity | 97.6 Cubic Feet | 87.8 Cubic Feet |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | Up to 5,000 Pounds | Up to 5,000 Pounds |
| Standard Touchscreen | 17.7 Inches | 13.2 Inches |
| Digital Driver Display | 11 Inches | 12.3 Inches |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay® | Standard | Standard |
| Wireless Android Auto™ | Standard | Standard |
| Available Super Cruise® | Available | Not Available |
| Safety Suite | Chevy Safety Assist | Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist |
Performance and Capability
The Chevrolet Traverse and Ford Explorer both provide the power and capability needed for family transportation, long-distance travel, and towing. The Chevrolet Traverse uses a turbocharged 2.5L engine that produces 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. The Ford Explorer uses a turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost® engine that produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Both SUVs can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making them suitable for trailers, campers, boats, and recreational equipment.
2026 Chevrolet Traverse
- 2.5L Turbocharged Engine
- 328 Horsepower
- 326 lb-ft of Torque
- 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Available All-Wheel Drive
- Up to 5,000 Pounds of Towing Capacity
- Drive Mode Selector
2026 Ford Explorer
- 2.3L EcoBoost® Turbocharged Engine
- 300 Horsepower
- 310 lb-ft of Torque
- 10-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Rear-Wheel Drive Standard
- Available All-Wheel Drive
- Up to 5,000 Pounds of Towing Capacity
Verdict
Both SUVs provide strong towing capability, while the Traverse delivers more horsepower and torque.
Interior Comfort and Cargo Space
Interior space is one of the most important considerations for growing families. The Chevrolet Traverse seats up to eight passengers and provides one of the largest cargo areas in the segment. The Ford Explorer seats up to seven passengers and offers a comfortable cabin with practical storage solutions. Families who frequently travel with passengers, luggage, sports equipment, or outdoor gear often appreciate the Traverse's additional space.
2026 Chevrolet Traverse
- Seating for Up to 8 Passengers
- Up to 97.6 Cubic Feet of Cargo Space
- Spacious Third Row
- Smart Slide® Second-Row Seating
- Available Captain's Chairs
- Multiple Storage Areas
- Family-Focused Cabin Layout
2026 Ford Explorer
- Seating for Up to 7 Passengers
- Up to 87.8 Cubic Feet of Cargo Space
- Comfortable Third Row
- Available Captain's Chairs
- Flexible Cargo Area
- Family-Oriented Interior
Verdict
The Explorer offers practical family accommodations, while the Traverse provides more passenger capacity and significantly more cargo space.
Technology and Connectivity
Technology continues to influence buying decisions in the three-row SUV segment. The Chevrolet Traverse includes a standard 17.7-inch touchscreen and an 11-inch driver information display. The Ford Explorer includes a 13.2-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Both vehicles support wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android Auto™ for convenient smartphone integration.
2026 Chevrolet Traverse
- 17.7-Inch Touchscreen
- 11-Inch Driver Information Display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay®
- Wireless Android Auto™
- Google Built-In Compatibility
- Available Wireless Charging
- Available Super Cruise®
2026 Ford Explorer
- 13.2-Inch Touchscreen
- 12.3-Inch Digital Instrument Cluster
- Wireless Apple CarPlay®
- Wireless Android Auto™
- Ford Digital Experience
- Available Wireless Charging
Verdict
Both SUVs offer impressive technology features, while the Traverse provides a larger touchscreen and available Super Cruise® technology.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Modern family SUVs are expected to provide advanced safety technologies that help drivers stay aware of their surroundings. The Chevrolet Traverse includes Chevy Safety Assist, while the Ford Explorer features Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist. Both systems include technologies designed to support confidence during daily commuting, highway travel, and family road trips.
2026 Chevrolet Traverse
- Chevy Safety Assist
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Forward Collision Alert
- Front Pedestrian Braking
- Lane Keep Assist
- Following Distance Indicator
- IntelliBeam® Auto High Beams
2026 Ford Explorer
- Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist
- Pre-Collision Assist
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Lane-Keeping System
- Blind Spot Information System
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Rear View Camera
Verdict
Both SUVs offer comprehensive driver-assistance technologies and modern safety features.
Family Utility and Everyday Versatility
Three-row SUVs are often expected to handle school drop-offs, road trips, sporting events, shopping trips, and outdoor adventures. The Chevrolet Traverse emphasizes passenger comfort, cargo flexibility, and family-focused practicality. The Ford Explorer offers versatile capability and athletic styling that appeals to many SUV shoppers.
2026 Chevrolet Traverse
- Seating for Up to 8
- Larger Cargo Area
- Spacious Third Row
- Family-Focused Interior
- Available AWD
- Flexible Seating Configurations
- Strong Towing Capability
2026 Ford Explorer
- Seating for Up to 7
- Athletic Exterior Styling
- Available AWD
- Strong Towing Capability
- Flexible Interior Layout
- Multiple Trim Choices
Verdict
The Explorer offers versatility and capability, while the Traverse delivers more room for passengers and cargo.
Which SUV Fits Life in Central Iowa Better?
Drivers throughout Granger, Des Moines, Johnston, Waukee, Urbandale, Ankeny, and Adel often need an SUV that can accommodate growing families, changing weather conditions, and active lifestyles. The Chevrolet Traverse offers available all-wheel drive, expansive cargo capacity, spacious seating, and advanced technology that fit many Iowa driving needs. The Ford Explorer also provides strong capability and versatility. Families traveling throughout Polk County, visiting Saylorville Lake, or taking long-distance road trips may appreciate the Traverse's larger cabin and cargo area.
2026 Chevrolet Traverse Advantages
- More Horsepower
- More Torque
- Seats Up to 8 Passengers
- Larger Cargo Capacity
- Larger Touchscreen
- Available Super Cruise®
- Spacious Third Row
- Family-Focused Design
- Available AWD
- Up to 5,000 Pounds of Towing
2026 Ford Explorer Advantages
- Rear-Wheel Drive Platform
- Larger Driver Display
- Strong Towing Capability
- Athletic Driving Character
- Multiple Trim Choices
- Available AWD
Verdict
Both SUVs fit active family lifestyles, while the Traverse offers more space, more standard technology, and greater overall practicality.
Why Buy Your Chevrolet Traverse from Willis Chevrolet of Granger?
Willis Chevrolet of Granger proudly serves drivers throughout Granger, Des Moines, Johnston, Waukee, Urbandale, Ankeny, Adel, Perry, and surrounding Iowa communities. Our dealership offers a large selection of Chevrolet Traverse models, competitive financing solutions, trade-in assistance, and factory-trained Chevrolet service. Drivers searching for a Chevrolet Traverse near Des Moines or a trusted Chevrolet dealer near me can explore multiple Traverse trims and configurations at Willis Chevrolet of Granger.
Willis Chevrolet of Granger Advantages
Large Selection
Large Selection of Chevrolet Traverse Models
Financing Solutions
Competitive Financing Solutions
Trade-In Assistance
Trade-In Assistance
Certified Technicians
Factory-Trained Chevrolet Technicians
Genuine Parts
Genuine Chevrolet Parts
Convenient Location
Convenient Location Near Des Moines
Customer Experience
Customer-Focused Experience
Verdict
Willis Chevrolet of Granger provides local expertise, Chevrolet-specific knowledge, and support throughout the ownership experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse
Is the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse a good family SUV?
Yes. The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse offers seating for up to eight passengers, extensive cargo space, advanced safety technologies, and modern connectivity features, making it an excellent family SUV.
Does the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse offer all-wheel drive?
Yes. Available all-wheel drive is offered on select Traverse trims and can help provide added confidence during Iowa winter driving conditions.
How much can the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse tow?
When properly equipped, the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
How many passengers can the Chevrolet Traverse seat?
The Traverse seats up to eight passengers, depending on the selected seating configuration.
Does the Chevrolet Traverse include Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™?
Yes. The Traverse includes wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android Auto™ compatibility.
What safety features are included on the Chevrolet Traverse?
Chevy Safety Assist includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Following Distance Indicator, and IntelliBeam® Auto High Beams.
Is the Chevrolet Traverse good for Iowa winters?
Yes. Available AWD, advanced safety technologies, and a confident driving platform make the Traverse well suited for Iowa weather conditions.
What vehicles compete with the Chevrolet Traverse?
The Traverse competes with the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Grand Highlander, Volkswagen Atlas, and Mazda CX-90.
Where can I buy a 2026 Chevrolet Traverse near Des Moines?
Drivers can shop for the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse at Willis Chevrolet of Granger, serving customers throughout Central Iowa.
Why choose Willis Chevrolet of Granger?
Willis Chevrolet of Granger offers a large inventory of Chevrolet vehicles, competitive financing options, trade-in assistance, and expert Chevrolet service for drivers throughout the Des Moines metro area.
Find Your 2026 Chevrolet Traverse at Willis Chevrolet of Granger
If you're searching for a 2026 Chevrolet Traverse for sale in Granger, IA, visit Willis Chevrolet of Granger. We proudly serve drivers from Des Moines, Johnston, Waukee, Urbandale, Ankeny, Adel, Perry, and surrounding Central Iowa communities with a wide selection of new Chevrolet Traverse models.
Whether you're looking for three rows of seating, available all-wheel drive, advanced safety technology, impressive cargo capacity, or strong towing capability, our team can help you compare trims, explore financing solutions, and value your trade. Schedule a test drive today and discover why so many Iowa families choose the Chevrolet Traverse from Willis Chevrolet Of Granger.
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