Have you been searching for a three-row SUV that combines bold performance with a refined interior? Then we think you should check out the Ford Explorer for sale in Sacramento, right here at our dealership. If you’ve been considering your three-row options, the Chevy Traverse most likely caught your attention, too. Chevy and Ford are two trusted brands with a long legacy of excellence, particularly in the SUV space.
After conducting a thorough examination of the differences and similarities between these two models, we believe you’ll find that the Explorer offers a broader range of performance perks, model options, and available interior amenities. Luckily, we did the deep dive for you and can provide the highlights.
We’re confident that the Explorer comes out on top. Given its place in the Ford family since 1991, the brand has had plenty of time to receive customer feedback and refine the model. Chevy only added the Traverse to its lineup in 2009, meaning the manufacturer hasn’t had quite as long to finetune it. Below are the reasons we think you’ll prefer the Explorer to the Traverse if performance, versatility, and comfort are important to you.
More Engine Options, More Power
There are two main types of drivers drawn to these models: families and road trippers (and of course, those two groups often overlap). We’ll first look at the efficient engines, though. Both models have a starting four-cylinder, turbocharged engine, ideal for those whose priority is fuel efficiency. However, the Explorer’s 2.3L engine offers slightly better efficiency than the Traverse’s, achieving 24 MPG combined, compared to the Traverse’s 22 MPG combined. The Explorer also sees significantly better freeway figures, with 29 MPG on the highway, compared to the Traverse’s 26 MPG.
The Explorer has Ford’s EcoBoost technology to thank for its superior fuel economy. Put simply, it’s a smart system that more precisely measures and delivers fuel for better efficiency. If efficiency is your priority, the Explorer outshines the Traverse.
Adventurers who frequently tow things like campers and boats outside of Sacramento will like that both the Explorer and the Traverse offer 5,000 lbs of towing abilities. However, only the Explorer has an additional engine that we believe can truly help you maximize its performance. The Traverse only offers its I-4 engine, whereas the Explorer adds a V6 option, which boosts maximum horsepower to 400 hp (it tops out at 328 for the Traverse). It’s more equipped to handle maneuvers like merging onto the freeway or going uphill with a vessel in tow, without issue, making it a smart choice for those who plan on trailing cargo.
A More Premium Interior Focused on Comfort and Connectivity
Whether you’re running errands around Sactown or sitting in traffic on the I-5, you’ll appreciate the Explorer’s premium interior. Its standout feature has to be its massaging front seats, available in the Platinum trim. When life gets busy, and you can’t find time for some self-care, you can at least have an SUV that treats you to a massage while you drive. The Traverse does not offer massaging seats on any of its trims.
The Explorer also leaves the Traverse in the dust when it comes to USB ports. It has a total of eight—four in the front row, and two more across each rear row. The Traverse only has two USB ports, and they’re both in the center console.
You know that today’s passengers are used to using their devices, like tablets and smartphones, on the go. If you drive the Traverse, you and your co-pilot will receive constant requests from rear-seat passengers to use your USB ports. The Explorer gives every row their own ports, so passengers can plug in, stream, play games, and more, without bothering the front seat riders.
A Larger Trim Lineup
As a Ford dealership, we see every type of driver checking out the Explorer, because its trim selection is impressively dynamic. The Explorer has six total trims. The starting trim, the Active 100A, is an affordable entry-level trim, loaded with impressive standard features. The Active adds some more premium perks like a power liftgate and heated front seats. The ST-Line steps up the luxury with a Bose sound system and unique style details.
The Tremor is a rugged off-road trim, designed with features to tackle tough terrain like skid plates and a unique suspension. The Platinum is the luxury trim, where you’ll find those massaging seats and other perks like an available sunroof. Finally, the ST is made for performance enthusiasts with its standard V6 engine, sport-tuned suspension, and performance brakes.
The Traverse’s Limited Trim Selection
The Traverse only has four trims. Its lineup begins with the LT, the base trim that you’d compare to the Explorer 100A. Next up is the Z71 with its off-road focus; the High Country represents the luxury trim, and the RS is for performance enthusiasts.
With two more trims than the Traverse, the Explorer lets shoppers be more selective about the experience they have. Its two extra trims contain a blend of performance and comfort/luxury features, offering the best of multiple worlds. Meanwhile, the trims of the Traverse are more one-dimensional.
It’s also important to note that the Explorer’s starting trim carries a much lower MSRP than the Traverse’s. The Explorer Active 100A sits at well under $40,000, while the Traverse’s LT costs over $40,000. So Sacramento drivers working on aggressive financial goals might find that the Explorer better fits their budget.
A Higher Ground Clearance for Increased Visibility
Enhanced visibility of the roads ahead is a top reason people turn to large SUVs, and the Explorer once again outperforms the Traverse in this area. The Explorer lineup features a ground clearance range that spans from 7.6 inches to 8.7 inches, with the off-road-capable Tremor model reaching the highest value. The Traverse’s ground clearance range starts at 6.77 inches and tops out at 7.76 inches—right around where the Explorer’s lowest ground clearance sits. If a high ride height matters to you, and/or you want solid clearance because you frequent bumpy, unpredictable roads, the Explorer is your better option.
Visit Us Today and Experience the 2026 Explorer for Yourself
Ready to find the Explorer that’s right for your days around California’s capital? Visit us at Future Ford of Sacramento! Our team of Ford specialists can guide you towards the trim with the right features for your days, and the right price tag for your budget.
By now, you know that the Explorer offers more engine options, more trim options, and a more refined interior (the massaging seats alone might be the selling point). A lower starting price point and better ground clearance also set the Explorer apart. So between the Traverse and the Explorer, the winner is clear.
If you want to discover a range of options, bold performance, and a well-designed interior, the 2026 Explorer is calling you. We have a sales team to help you pick out your model, and an on-site finance team that can get you a lease or loan that supports your long-term goals. Come find a large selection of this trusted three-row SUV at our friendly dealership now!
