When it comes to three-row SUVs, the Chevrolet Traverse and Ford Explorer are two of the most popular choices on the road. Both offer family-friendly comfort, strong tech, and versatile performance — but they’re built for slightly different priorities. If you’re trying to decide which one fits your lifestyle best, here’s a clear breakdown of how they compare.

Seating Capacity

• Chevrolet Traverse: Seats up to 8 passengers
• Ford Explorer: Seats up to 7 passengers

The Traverse’s optional eighth seat makes it a great choice for larger families or carpools.

Cargo Space

• Traverse: Up to 98+ cubic feet of cargo room
• Explorer: Up to ~88 cubic feet

The Traverse offers significantly more space for luggage, sports gear, strollers, or travel essentials. If interior volume matters, Chevy has the edge.

Engine Options

• Traverse: 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder (around 328 hp)
• Explorer: 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder (around 300 hp) or available 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (up to 400 hp)

The Explorer offers more variety — and its available V6 packs serious power for drivers who want added performance.

Towing Capacity

Traverse: Up to 5,000 lbs
Explorer: Up to 5,600 lbs

Fuel Economy

• Traverse: Balanced efficiency for a large SUV
• Explorer: Slightly better highway fuel economy with its turbo-4

If towing or sporty driving is a priority, the Explorer has the upper hand. If you want smooth, consistent power, the Traverse delivers well for everyday use.

Infotainment

• Traverse: Huge 17.7-inch touchscreen
• Explorer: Up to 13.2-inch touchscreen with digital gauge cluster

The Traverse wins on screen size, but the Explorer provides a refined, driver-focused cockpit layout.

Interior Feel

• Traverse: Spacious, practical, family-first design
• Explorer: More premium materials and a modern, tech-heavy atmosphere

For maximum roominess and simplicity, the Traverse stands out. For a more upscale, driver-centric feel, the Explorer fits this.

Both SUVs start around the $40,000 mark (new), depending on trim and configuration.

• The Traverse tends to offer more value for families needing space.
• The Explorer provides strong value for drivers wanting performance and advanced tech — though upgraded trims can raise the price quickly.

Choose the Traverse if you want:

• Maximum cargo and passenger space
• Comfortable seating across all three rows
• A practical, family-friendly SUV
• The option to seat up to 8 people

Choose the Explorer if you want:

• Stronger performance and available turbo V6 power
• Higher towing capability
• A modern, tech-forward cabin
• A sportier overall driving experience

Both the Chevrolet Traverse and Ford Explorer are excellent three-row SUVs — it really comes down to your priorities. If space and practicality are your top concerns, the Traverse is hard to beat. But if you’re looking for performance, technology, and a more dynamic feel on the road, the Explorer may be the better fit.