Compare the 2026 Ford Explorer in Royal Oak, MI
Here in Greater Detroit, Ford isn't just a car manufacturer -- it's a hallowed name that has been entwined with the Motor City ever since Henry Ford first set up shop in the area in the earliest days of the 20th century. Since then, the models bearing the brand's famous Blue Oval have grown ever-more powerful, stylish, capable and impressive -- and the 2026 Ford Explorer, the latest iteration of the company's popular SUV, is no exception.
As has been the case ever since its original release, the Explorer remains at the forefront of its class. But competitors, never quick to give up, continue to try and outdo the segment-leading Ford. Can they? To find out, we compared the Explorer to two other born-in-Detroit SUVs: the 2026 Chevy Traverse and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Our 2026 Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee comparison results are clear: the Explorer isn't relinquishing its throne anytime soon. Learn more by reviewing the specs and tech features at our Ford dealer near Detroit today.
2026 Ford Explorer Specs Comparison
Let's talk numbers. The 2026 Ford Explorer specs include one particularly impressive figure: a max 400 horsepower rating. That number outshines the Traverse, which puts out no more than 328 horsepower from its underwhelming powertrain. As for the Jeep Grand Cherokee? The Grand Cherokee only provides 324 horsepower -- significantly less than what you'll find on the Explorer.
Other metrics further back up the Explorer SUV's performance chops. Trailer Sway Control comes standard on all trims, as does a Terrain Management System™. If you thought you could opt for such hardware on the Traverse, think again. The Grand Cherokee likewise struggles to match the Explorer on this front. All this to say: if you value performance, you want to buy a new Explorer in Michigan.
2026 Ford Explorer
- Max Horsepower: 400
- Max Torque (lb.-ft.): 415
- Trailer Sway Control: Standard
- Terrain Management System™: Standard
2026 Chevy Traverse
- Max Horsepower: 328
- Max Torque (lb.-ft.): 326
- Trailer Sway Control: N/A
- Terrain Management System™: N/A
2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Max Horsepower: 324
- Max Torque (lb.-ft.): 332
- Trailer Sway Control: N/A
- Terrain Management System™: N/A
2026 Ford Explorer Interior Comparison
Space, safety and comfort. These are qualities that are on full display in the 2026 Explorer interior, so it's no surprise to see that Ford Co-Pilot360™ is among this SUV's most prominent tech features. The active-safety innovations included in this bundle ensure that you and your passengers can travel in peace -- and with three rows of seating as standard, you'll have plenty of company on your next road trip. New Grand Cherokee buyers won't be so lucky -- they'll have to step up to one of the pricier Grand Cherokee L trims to gain a third row.
Once you've got your crew on board, keep them comfortable with the standard tri-zone climate control system. With three control zones, it's easier for everyone to stay comfortable regardless of what Mother Nature is up to. The base Grand Cherokee can't match the Explorer in this regard, either. Once again, every Explorer at our Ford dealership in Royal Oak proves that when it comes to smart design, no SUV does it better.
2026 Ford Explorer
- Standard Touchscreen Display (in.): 13.2
- Third-Row Seating: Standard
- Tri-Zone Climate Control: Standard
2026 Chevy Traverse
- Standard Touchscreen Display (in.): 17.7
- Third-Row Seating: Standard
- Tri-Zone Climate Control: Standard
2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Standard Touchscreen Display (in.): 12.3
- Third-Row Seating: Available
- Tri-Zone Climate Control: N/A
2026 Ford Explorer for Sale Near Me
Whether it's Ford vs. Chevy or Explorer vs. Grand Cherokee, automotive rivalries run deep in the Motor City. But fandom isn't above truth, and the data speaks for itself: the 2026 Ford Explorer outperforms its Chevy and Jeep competition. If you're ready to buy an Explorer near Detroit, contact Royal Oak Ford today.
Read More:
2026 Ford Explorer Overview
Ford EV & Hybrid FAQs
First-Time Car Buyer Guide
2026 Ford Explorer Comparison FAQs
Is the Explorer more powerful than the Traverse and Grand Cherokee?
Yes, the 2026 Ford Explorer provides up to 400 horsepower, which is significantly more than competing SUVs. The 2026 Traverse delivers up to 328 horsepower, while the 2026 Grand Cherokee only offers 324 horsepower.
Is the Ford Explorer safe to drive?
Yes, with performance features like Trailer Sway Control and Terrain Management System™, the Ford Explorer provides plenty of driver-assistive tech to make driving your Explorer SUV not only fun but also safe.
Does the Ford Explorer have 3 rows?
The Ford Explorer is a 3-row SUV, unlike the Grand Cherokee, which is only two rows in its base configuration. You'd have to upgrade to a Grand Cherokee L and pay more for three rows.