Is the 2027 Chevy Traverse Better Than the Ford Explorer for Winston-Salem Families?

September 11th, 2026 by

The 2027 Chevrolet Traverse is a strong choice for midsize three-row SUV buyers who prioritize standard engine output, passenger space, and cargo capacity. Powered by a standard 328-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and offering up to 98 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, the Traverse provides more standard horsepower and maximum cargo space than the 2027 Ford Explorer while also offering available Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology.

Choosing between these two midsize family haulers often comes down to passenger space, cargo capacity, technology, and performance. The 2027 Traverse provides 328 horsepower from its standard turbocharged engine, while the Explorer’s standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine produces 300 horsepower. Every Traverse also includes a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch driver information display; the Explorer Active features a 13.2-inch center display and a 12.3-inch cluster display.

For drivers commuting from Rural Hall along Highway 52, the Traverse’s spacious three-row layout and available all-wheel drive can provide useful versatility for daily driving and weekend trips. The Traverse also offers an 8-passenger seating configuration on the LT, whereas the Ford Explorer has a maximum seating capacity of 7.

To see how the latest Chevrolet SUV lineup fits your household needs, feel free to drop by our Winston-Salem showroom location or give our sales team a quick call to get your questions answered by our staff.

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How Do Standard Turbo Performance Specs Compare Between the Traverse and Explorer?

The 2027 Chevrolet Traverse delivers more standard horsepower and torque than the base Ford Explorer, giving families immediate passing power without needing to upgrade to an expensive optional engine trim. Every 2027 Traverse comes equipped with a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque, routed through an automatic 8-speed transmission.

In comparison, the standard Ford Explorer uses a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine rated at 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. That gives the Traverse a 28-horsepower and 16-lb-ft advantage in standard engine output.

Properly equipped with its standard trailering package, the 2027 Traverse achieves a 5,000-lb towing rating, allowing local owners to pull campers, utility trailers, or small boats with confidence. Fuel economy remains efficient across the lineup:

  • Front-wheel-drive models earn an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway.
  • All-wheel drive versions achieve an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city / 24 mpg highway.

The lineup spans distinct personalities, including the well-equipped LT, the off-road optimized Z71 with twin-clutch all-wheel drive, the sporty RS, and the top-tier High Country. If you are evaluating different price points or considering a late-model option, you can also explore our selection of quality pre-owned vehicles for sale.

How Does Chevy Traverse Cargo Capacity and Seating Room Compare to the Ford Explorer?

With up to 98 cubic feet of maximum cargo space and generous third-row legroom, the 2027 Chevrolet Traverse stands out as a top pick for families needing extra room. The Traverse yields about 23 cubic feet of cargo room behind the third row and folds flat to reveal roughly 98 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, outclassing the Explorer’s 16 cubic feet behind the third row and 85 cubic feet maximum.

The Traverse provides usable passenger space across all three rows, with approximately 32.1 inches of third-row legroom. The 2027 Ford Explorer provides approximately 31.8 inches of third-row legroom according to Ford’s published specifications, giving the Traverse a slight advantage in this measurement.

Seating flexibility is another clear advantage for Chevrolet:

  • The LT trim offers an 8-passenger configuration with a second-row bench seat.
  • Available second-row captain’s chairs provide a comfortable 7-passenger layout across LT, Z71, RS, and High Country trims.
  • The Ford Explorer maxes out at 7 passengers across its entire trim range.

Families comparing these two crossovers on our showroom floor usually test the third-row fold mechanism and child-seat access before they even look at the window sticker. In Walkertown, parents juggling school drop-offs and sports equipment gear find that extra rear cargo depth essential for fitting full-size coolers and strollers simultaneously.

Does the Chevy Traverse Feature Super Cruise Hands-Free Driving?

Yes, the 2027 Chevrolet Traverse offers Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology, which can provide hands-free driving on more than 600,000 miles of compatible roads in the United States and Canada. Super Cruise is available on LT and Z71 and comes standard on RS and High Country.

Super Cruise utilizes precision LiDAR map data, real-time cameras, radar sensors, and GPS to steer, brake, and maintain lane position automatically. The system also includes lane-changing capabilities, allowing the vehicle to execute highway passes when conditions are clear. A driver attention system uses infrared cameras on the steering column to monitor eye gaze, ensuring safety while driving hands-free.

When traveling long stretches along regional corridors, engaged hands-free driving significantly reduces driver fatigue. While Ford offers its own BlueCruise system on select Explorer trims, Chevrolet integrates Super Cruise seamlessly with its standard 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and driver display, giving you simple visual cues and intuitive controls on every road trip.

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How Can You Trade In Your Current Vehicle and Secure Financing at Modern Chevrolet?

You can begin the trade-in and financing process for a 2027 Chevrolet Traverse online or work directly with the Modern Chevrolet finance team at the dealership. Our finance specialists can help qualified shoppers explore available loan and lease options based on their individual financial situation.

Trading in your current vehicle provides an immediate down payment benefit that lowers your total loan amount and monthly payment. Our appraisal process evaluates real-time market value to ensure you receive a fair, transparent offer for your trade. You can start exploring options right away by browsing our broad selection of new Chevy models and using our convenient tool to value your trade-in vehicle from home.

Every new 2027 Traverse purchase also carries long-term protection backed by factory warranties:

  • 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty.
  • 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty.
  • Complimentary initial maintenance visit.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety and driver-assistance features by trim

The 2027 Chevrolet Traverse includes more than 20 standard safety and driver-assistance features across the lineup. Chevrolet highlights technologies such as Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian and Bicycle Braking, Blind Zone Steering Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, and Safety Alert Seat. Standard equipment also includes features such as four-wheel ABS, stability and traction control, child-seat anchors, and multiple airbag systems.

Additional driver-assistance technology is available depending on trim and equipment. Buyers should review the specific vehicle’s window sticker or equipment list because availability can vary by trim, package, and configuration. Safety and driver-assistance technologies are designed to assist the driver and do not replace the driver’s responsibility to remain attentive and operate the vehicle safely.

Common Buyer Questions About the Chevy Traverse and Ford Explorer Comparison

Q: What is the standard screen size in the 2027 Chevy Traverse vs Ford Explorer?

Every 2027 Chevrolet Traverse comes equipped with a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch driver information display. The 2027 Ford Explorer Active features a 13.2-inch center display and a 12.3-inch cluster display. The Traverse therefore provides the larger standard center touchscreen, while the Explorer’s standard digital instrument display is larger.

Q: Can the 2027 Chevy Traverse seat 8 passengers?

Yes, the 2027 Chevrolet Traverse offers 8-passenger seating when configured with the second-row bench seat on the LT trim level. Most other trims feature second-row captain’s chairs for a 7-passenger layout. The Ford Explorer maxes out at 7 passengers across its entire lineup and cannot be configured to carry 8 people.

Q: What off-road features come with the Chevy Traverse Z71 trim?

The 2027 Chevrolet Traverse Z71 includes an Advanced Twin-Clutch AWD system, off-road suspension, an underbody skid plate, 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, Terrain Mode, and Hill Descent Control. These features are designed to enhance traction and capability when traveling on unpaved or challenging surfaces.

Q: What documentation do I need to bring to apply for auto financing?

To complete your auto loan application smoothly, bring your current driver’s license, proof of income such as recent pay stubs, proof of residency like a utility bill, current vehicle registration if trading in, and an active auto insurance card. Having these documents ready speeds up underwriter approval and gets you behind the wheel faster. You can take a moment to apply for financing online before visiting us to save time.

Take the Next Step Toward Your New 2027 Chevy Traverse at Modern Chevrolet

The 2027 Chevrolet Traverse offers a compelling combination of three-row versatility, performance, cargo capacity, and available driver-assistance technology. It provides a potent 328-hp turbocharged engine, up to 98 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, and available Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology.

Our team at Modern Chevrolet is ready to help you find the exact trim, color, and package for your lifestyle. Get directions to our Winston-Salem dealership at 5955 University Pkwy, Winston-Salem, NC 27105 or place a call to our sales team today to schedule your test drive.

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Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

Posted in Chevrolet Traverse