Room for Your Family on Weekend Outings to Oak Hollow Lake
Finding the right balance between passenger space and cargo flexibility is essential for active families. The 2026 Ford Explorer Active trim starts at $49,659 MSRP and provides standard seating for 7 people, making it a dependable choice for school runs or trips to the water. While the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT starts lower at $46,589 and offers a larger maximum cargo volume of 98 cu ft compared to the 85.8 cu ft available in the Explorer, the Ford remains a favorite for its manageable 198.8-inch length. This slightly more compact footprint makes navigating busy parking lots much easier. If you have questions about which layout fits your lifestyle, our team at (336) 292-8310 is ready to help. You can also visit our Greensboro showroom to see these spacious interiors in person.
Fuel Economy
Both SUVs offer nearly identical fuel efficiency ratings despite their different engine configurations.
| Specification | 2026 Ford Explorer | 2026 Chevrolet Traverse |
|---|---|---|
| City MPG | 18-20 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 25-27 | 24-27 |
| Combined MPG | 22-24 | 22-24 |
| Fuel Type | Unleaded | Unleaded |
Practical Value for Working Families and Local Professionals
Choosing a family vehicle is a big decision for our neighbors in Kernersville who need to balance a monthly budget with the reality of a busy lifestyle. The 2026 Ford Explorer lineup starts with the Active trim at $49,659, which comes standard with a 2.3L I4 engine and 4WD. In comparison, the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT starts lower at $46,589, but it utilizes a FWD drivetrain in its base configuration. For local professionals who require specialized equipment, the Explorer Utility Police Interceptor is available for $51,095 and features a 3.3L V6 engine, while the Traverse Z71 moves up to $55,985 to include 4WD capability.
Pricing
The Chevrolet Traverse starts at a lower entry price, while the Ford Explorer offers a wider range of specialized trims including performance and off-road variants.
| 2026 Ford Explorer Trim | MSRP | 2026 Chevrolet Traverse Trim | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active | $49,659 | LT | $46,589 |
| Utility Police Interceptor | $51,095 | Z71 | $55,985 |
| ST-LINE | $51,644 | High Country | $59,690 |
| Platinum | $59,407 | RS | $59,930 |
| ST | $63,158 | — | — |
| Tremor | $63,253 | — | — |
As you move into the mid-range and premium options, the value of the Ford engineering becomes even clearer. The Explorer ST-LINE is priced at $51,644, offering a sporty appearance with the efficient 2.3L I4. Meanwhile, the Traverse RS reaches $59,930. If you are looking for the peak of comfort or off-road prowess, the Explorer Platinum sits at $59,407, the performance-tuned ST at $63,158, and the rugged Tremor at $63,253. Top-tier Explorer models distinguish themselves by offering the robust power of a 3.0L V6 engine.
At Green Ford, we have been part of this community for over 50 years, and we want to make your purchase as easy as possible. You can get started today when you Value your Trade In online to see how your current car fits into your budget. If you would like to see these trims in person, you can Get Directions to Green Ford and visit our Greensboro showroom. You can also Call us at (336) 292-8310 to ask about our LIFETIME POWERTRAIN LIMITED WARRANTY that comes with every new vehicle we sell. We are excited to help your family find a reliable SUV that is ready for every adventure in the Piedmont.