Ford Explorer vs Chevrolet Bolt

The 2026 Ford Explorer retained much of its previous design, having undergone a facelift in 2025 that gave it a more rugged, truck-like appearance. This design was particularly well-suited for the 2026 Tremor model, which enhanced its off-road capabilities with features like all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, a raised ride height, and off-road lights integrated into the grille. The Tremor also sported unique Electric Spice accents, a golden hue reminiscent of Subaru's Wilderness models, adding a distinctive touch to its rugged look. Despite these enhancements, the Explorer's overall design remained somewhat generic, with the interior offering little change from the previous year. The 2025 overhaul had introduced a new infotainment system, but the materials in the Tremor model felt subpar for its price point, though Ford did offer a range of options from basic cloth to luxurious leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt maintained a familiar look, with only slight styling changes that made its front end resemble a conventional gas-powered car more than an EV. The 2027 model continued the legacy of the 2023 version, offering a single body style that straddled the line between a large hatchback and a subcompact SUV. The Bolt's interior saw more significant updates, featuring a larger digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen, along with a relocated gear selector for increased storage space. Despite the hard plastic surfaces that reinforced its budget feel, the Bolt provided adequate comfort with padded touchpoints and Evotex synthetic leather in the RS trim. The rear seating area, while dominated by hard plastics, offered ample headroom and thigh support, making it a practical choice for passengers.

The 2026 Ford Explorer offered unchanged powertrain options, with a standard 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Tremor and ST models featured a more powerful twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6, producing 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard on most trims and all-wheel drive available. The Tremor model, with its off-road enhancements, impressed with its confident handling and comfortable ride, even on challenging terrains like Death Valley. The twin-turbo V6 provided ample power for passing and towing, while the 10-speed automatic ensured smooth gear transitions.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt introduced a new 65-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron phosphate battery pack, reducing costs and reliance on rare earth minerals. Its motor, borrowed from the Chevy Equinox EV, produced 210 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque, offering acceleration similar to the previous Bolt EV, typically in the low seven-second range for 0-60 mph. While not the fastest by EV standards, the Bolt's acceleration was quick compared to gas-powered subcompact SUVs, with responsive pedal inputs and one-pedal driving options. The Bolt's ride was firm but not overly stiff, and its low center of gravity contributed to agile handling on curvy roads. The 2027 model boasted an improved range of up to 262 miles on a full charge, with faster charging capabilities thanks to a 150 kW charging speed.

The 2026 Ford Explorer accommodated up to seven passengers across three rows, with an option for second-row captain’s chairs reducing capacity to six. While it offered reasonable space for a midsize crossover, it fell short in headroom and legroom compared to competitors like the Honda Pilot. Cargo space was competitive, with 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 85.3 cubic feet with the second row folded. The Explorer provided ample storage options, including large door pockets and a big center console bin, though it lacked unique features like underfloor storage.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt featured an upright driving position with ample space for larger occupants, though taller drivers might have wished for more steering wheel extension. The rear seats offered plenty of headroom and thigh support, with a flat floor enhancing comfort for center-seat passengers. Cargo capacity was 16.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, with a large bin underneath the floor for additional storage. The Bolt's interior offered practical storage solutions, including a large bin with dividers, a deep center armrest bin, and a wireless phone charger, ensuring ample space for personal items.

The 2026 Ford Explorer came equipped with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity and a range of Google services. USB-C ports were standard across all rows, with higher trims offering a premium B&O audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though climate control icons could be more intuitive. The Explorer also featured a 360-degree camera system, useful for off-road adventures, with cameras that remained active at higher speeds.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt included an 11-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.3-inch center touchscreen, running on a Google-based operating system. While Apple CarPlay and standalone Android Auto were not supported, the system offered sufficient browsing control via Bluetooth. The optional Technology package added features like a surround-view camera system and a wireless charging pad. The infotainment system was praised for its logical menus and quick responses, with navigation that assisted in finding charging stations and preconditioning the battery for optimal charging rates. The Bolt also offered vehicle-to-load charging capabilities, providing backup power for homes.

The 2026 Ford Explorer featured the CoPilot 360+ suite, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims added CoPilot 360 2.0, with a 360-degree camera system and predictive speed assist. The Explorer also offered BlueCruise hands-free highway driving, upgraded to version 1.5 for 2026. It received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring excellent crash protection and safety features.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt's crash test results were pending, but it was expected to perform well based on its platform. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system and other advanced features. GM's Super Cruise was available for an additional cost, offering hands-free highway driving capabilities.