2027 Ford Explorer vs 2027 Chevrolet Traverse: Full Comparison
The 2027 Ford Explorer tows up to 5,300 lbs and delivers 300 hp from a turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost engine. The Traverse matches towing at 5,000 lbs but leads on raw horsepower with 328 hp and offers more cargo space. This page breaks down every key category so you can choose with confidence, then check available inventory at Koons Ford.
The Short Answer
The 2027 Explorer is the right choice for buyers who want a sportier feel, a more powerful optional engine, or a dedicated off-road variant in the Tremor. The Traverse wins on interior volume and standard tech content at lower trim levels. Neither offers a hybrid powertrain in the U.S. market, so both buyers are comparing gasoline-only SUVs with identical warranty coverage.
2027 Ford Explorer trims and specs
Specs Head-to-Head
| Spec | 2027 Ford Explorer | 2027 Chevrolet Traverse |
|---|---|---|
| Base engine | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 2.5L Turbo I-4 |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 328 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 326 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Standard drivetrain | RWD (AWD optional) | FWD (AWD optional/standard on Z71) |
| Towing capacity | 5,300 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Seating | 7 | 7 (8 available on LT FWD) |
| Cargo behind 3rd row | 16.3 cu ft | 22.9 cu ft |
| Max cargo | 85.8 cu ft | 98.0 cu ft |
| EPA combined MPG | 24 MPG (2.3L RWD) | 22 MPG (FWD) / 21 MPG (AWD) |
| Touchscreen size | 13.2 in | 17.7 in |
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36K mi | 3 yr / 36K mi |
| Powertrain warranty | 5 yr / 60K mi | 5 yr / 60K mi |
EPA fuel economy ratings for 2027 Explorer
Performance and Powertrain
The Explorer runs a 10-speed automatic paired to its 2.3L EcoBoost, and buyers who want more punch can step up to the 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 on the ST, Tremor, and Platinum trims. That V6 produces 400 hp in federal-state configurations, a figure the Traverse cannot approach with its single engine offering. The Explorer also ships standard with rear-wheel drive, which sharpens steering feel compared to the Traverse's front-wheel-drive baseline. AWD is optional on most Explorer trims and standard on the Tremor.
The Traverse counters with a more powerful base engine, 328 hp versus the Explorer's 300 hp, and 326 lb-ft of torque. Its 8-speed automatic is calibrated and smooth, but the Explorer's 10-speed unit offers finer gear gradations that support its towing advantage.
The Explorer tows 5,300 lbs versus the Traverse's 5,000 lbs, a meaningful gap if you pull a boat or trailer regularly along routes from Annapolis toward the bay.
2027 Explorer towing and capability details
Interior, Space and Cargo
The Traverse is the larger vehicle on paper. At 204.5 inches overall versus the Explorer's 198.7 inches, it carries more cargo behind every row: 22.9 cu ft behind the third row versus the Explorer's 16.3 cu ft, and a max of 98.0 cu ft versus 85.8 cu ft with all rows folded. The Traverse also offers an 8-passenger seating option on the LT FWD trim, while the Explorer caps at 7. For families who need maximum hauling room, the Traverse holds a clear edge.
The Explorer answers with a more structured interior layout and a wider trim range that allows meaningful personalization. Front leg room is 43 inches in the Explorer versus 44.3 inches in the Traverse, a small gap.
Third-row leg room is similar: 31.8 inches in the Explorer and 32.1 inches in the Traverse. The Traverse's third-row shoulder room checks in at 57.7 inches, slightly wider than the Explorer's 54.6 inches, which matters for growing passengers on longer drives. Where the Explorer reclaims ground is ride character, particularly on the ST-Line and Tremor, where suspension tuning is sport or terrain-specific rather than purely comfort-focused.
Technology and Safety
Both vehicles bring Google-integrated infotainment and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Traverse's screen is larger at 17.7 inches diagonal versus the Explorer's 13.2 inches, and both pair to an 11-inch digital cluster. The Explorer counters with a 5G modem, Google Assistant voice controls baked in, native Google Maps, and a Wi-Fi hotspot supporting up to 10 devices at once. A Bang and Olufsen audio system is available, upgradeable to a 14-speaker 980-watt configuration.
The Traverse offers Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance, standard on the RS and High Country trims. The Explorer does not offer a comparable hands-free highway driving system.
On standard safety content, both vehicles include adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera system, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. Ford Co-Pilot360 bundles these items across the Explorer lineup. The Traverse adds Rear Pedestrian Alert as standard on most trims.
Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features explained
Value and Ownership
Both SUVs carry identical warranty terms: 3 years or 36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper, and 5 years or 60,000 miles on the powertrain. Neither holds an advantage on paper warranty length. The Explorer earns better EPA fuel economy, rating 24 MPG combined (2.3L RWD) versus the Traverse's 22 MPG combined (FWD) or 21 MPG combined (AWD). That 2-to-3 MPG gap adds up across a typical ownership period, particularly for Annapolis-area commuters logging highway miles on Route 50 or US-301.
The Explorer's Ford Connectivity Package, included for one year, adds streaming, parked-mode entertainment, and additional connected features. The Traverse includes available OnStar services that provide safety and vehicle monitoring. Standard content on lower Explorer trims includes the 13.2-inch screen, digital cluster, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, and the full Co-Pilot360 suite. The Traverse LT delivers a similarly generous base package with its 17.7-inch screen and Chevy Safety Assist standard.
Which One Should You Buy
Choose the 2027 Ford Explorer if:
You want a rear-wheel-drive foundation that handles like a proper midsize SUV. You need serious towing capability at 5,300 lbs. You plan to move up to the 3.0L twin-turbo V6 for 400 hp, or you want a dedicated off-road variant in the Tremor with 8.7 inches of ground clearance. The Explorer also suits buyers who prize fuel economy, since it earns 24 MPG combined versus the Traverse at 22.
Choose the 2027 Chevrolet Traverse if:
You need the maximum cargo volume available in the class, with 22.9 cu ft behind the third row and 98.0 cu ft fully loaded. You want an 8-passenger seating option. The Traverse's larger touchscreen, standard Super Cruise on upper trims, and slightly more powerful base engine make it a strong choice for tech-first buyers who prioritize in-cabin space over driving dynamics.
See the 2027 Explorer at Koons Ford in Annapolis
Koons Ford serves buyers across the Annapolis area and beyond with the full 2027 Explorer lineup spanning Active, ST-Line, Tremor, ST, and Platinum trims. Whether you are towing a boat out of the Chesapeake Bay region or loading up for a weekend trip, the Explorer's 10-speed automatic, standard Co-Pilot360, and available twin-turbo V6 make a compelling case against the Traverse. Browse current inventory to see available colors, trims, and packages in stock right now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2027 Ford Explorer tow more than the 2027 Chevrolet Traverse?
Yes. The Explorer tows up to 5,300 lbs, while the Traverse is rated at 5,000 lbs.
Which has more cargo space, the 2027 Explorer or the 2027 Traverse?
The Traverse carries more cargo. It offers 22.9 cu ft behind the third row and 98.0 cu ft maximum, compared to the Explorer's 16.3 cu ft behind the third row and 85.8 cu ft maximum.
Which SUV gets better fuel economy?
The Explorer earns 24 MPG combined (2.3L, RWD) versus the Traverse at 22 MPG combined (FWD) or 21 MPG combined (AWD).
EPA fuel economy comparison tool
Does the 2027 Ford Explorer have a larger engine option?
Yes. The ST, Tremor, and Platinum trims offer a 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 producing 400 hp in federal-state vehicles. The Traverse offers only one engine across all trims.
Do both vehicles come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Both the 2027 Explorer and 2027 Traverse include wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto as standard features.
Does the Traverse or the Explorer have a bigger touchscreen?
The Traverse's 17.7-inch screen is larger than the Explorer's 13.2-inch screen. The Explorer counters with a 5G modem and a Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 10 devices.
Does either SUV offer hands-free highway driving?
The Traverse offers available Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance, standard on RS and High Country trims. The 2027 Explorer does not offer a comparable hands-free highway driving system.
Where can I test-drive the 2027 Explorer near Annapolis?
Koons Ford in Annapolis carries the 2027 Explorer lineup. Browse inventory online to check available trims and schedule a test drive.