The Chevy Traverse vs Toyota Highlander comparison gives a complete overview of these two SUVs so that interested buyers or admirers can make the best pick for their driving needs.
Suppose you have been finding it difficult to make a concrete or final decision on which vehicle to go for, especially if you are a great admirer of what both designs offer.
This guide gives you the direction to follow.
We will look at how both vehicles have transformed over the years and the motivation behind their launch.
Most importantly, we will discuss the similarities they share and the attributes or features that differentiate each design from another.
Toyota Highlander VS Chevy Traverse: History of Chevy Traverse
Chevy Traverse has introduced to the market about 13 years ago (2008). This was during the time most American car owners were obsessed with SUVs.
It was built to meet the growing demand and compete with other established designs.
The sleek styling, power, and space capability, especially how it could accommodate up to 8 individuals (a feature popularly common or attributed to full-size SUVs at that time), won the heart of so many car owners with more prominent families.
Over the years, there have been a series of upgrades to redefine and reposition this vehicle in the market. The Chevy Traverse is currently in its 2nd Generation.
Chevy Traverse Generation
Second Generation Chevy Traverse 2018-present
Since its launch, many car owners have identified with this Generation of Chevy Traverse as a full-size SUV due to its expansive interior.
Although it has a similar interior space as the 1st Generation, the difference is its dimension and the numerous features that give the interior a modern or more advanced appearance.
Also, the engine is enhanced to deliver more power, and buyers have six trims levels to choose from.
Key Features
- Six trim levels
- 6L V6 engine
- 310hp & 266 lb-ft torque
- 9-speed-automatic transmission
- Front-wheel-drive & all-wheel-drive
- 25MPG (highway) & 17MPG (city)
- Accommodates eight people
- Max towing capacity: 5000 pounds
First Generation Chevy Traverse 2008-2017
The 1st Generation Chevy Traverse was launched in 2008. During this time, it faced massive competition from the existing mid-size crossovers in the market.
This Generation Chevy Traverse had a spacious interior that could comfortably accommodate eight people in a bid to look appealing to SUV enthusiasts, especially people with larger families.
Aside from its expansive or rooming interior, other features that made the 1st Generation Chevy Traverse a success were its sleek appearance, quality ride (quiet and smooth), and high-rated safety features.
Key Features
- Three trim levels
- 6L V6 engine
- 281hp & 266 lb-ft torque
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel-drive (FWD) & all-wheel-drive (AWD)
- 24MPG (highway) & 17MPG (city)
- Max towing capacity: 5200 pounds
- Seating capacity: 7 people
What is Chevy Traverse good at?
The Chevy Traverse is famous for its bigger size and more power.
If you are looking for an affordable mid-size crossover with a spacious interior that won’t impact comfort or leave the passengers feeling uncomfortable, confined, or cramped. Chevy Traverse is the best choice.
Chevy Traverse VS Toyota Highlander: History of Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander has launched about 20 years ago (2001), making it one of the early crossover vehicles. Instead of the popular truck platform that was common at that time, the car platform was adopted instead.
The Toyota Highlander guarantees car-like performance (comfort and handling). In the early production/manufacturing stages, the vehicle had only two (2) seat rows and could only accommodate five individuals.
Three years later (2004), the seat row increased to three (3), creating additional space to accommodate Seven (7) people.
In 2014, when Toyota, the 3rd Generation of Highlander, was introduced to the market, the seating capacity improved (the 3rd seat row became wider) to accommodate eight people.
The Toyota Highlander is currently in its 4th Generation.
Toyota Highlander Generations
Fourth Generation Toyota Highlander 2024-present
When Toyota launched the 4th Generation of Highlander in 2019, some notable upgrades (addition and replacement) were done to improve its appearance, operation, and performance.
For instance, a new platform (TNGA-K) was adopted. As a result, the metal frame (bodyshell) becomes lightweight and very rigid. Also, the center of gravity becomes low.
These adjustments or upgrades contribute significantly to the massive improvement in handling (easier & quicker) and comfort while driving on the highway.
Key Features
- 5L V6 engine
- 295hp & 263 lb-ft torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- All-wheel-drive
- 5,000 towing capacity
- Accommodates eight people
- 26MPG (highway) & 20MPG (city)
Third Generation Toyota Highlander 2014-2019
When the 3rd Generation Toyota Highlander was introduced, its bigger size (increased length and width) was the most notable upgrade.
However, the roofline was reduced/lowered to achieve an improved aerodynamic.
Another major upgrade was the introduction of the 6-speed automatic transmission.
Compared to its competitors, the 3rd Generation Toyota Highlander focused and delivered on ride comfort, advanced interior (inclusion of modern features), and style. Instead of building vehicles that offer extra aggressive styling.
Key Features
- 5L V6 engine
- 295hp and 263 lb-ft torque
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- All-wheel drive
- Max towing capacity: 5000 pounds
- Seating capacity: 8 people
- 24MPG (highway) & 18MPG (city)
Second Generation Toyota Highlander 2008-2013
Launched in 2007, the 2nd Generation Toyota Highlander offered bigger interior space than the 1st Generation.
The people sitting in the second and last row had more outstanding legroom.
Also, the hip point, headroom, and shoulder-width were increased. These upgrades collectively improved comfort while seating.
Key Features
- 5L V6 engine
- 215hp & 222 lb-ft torque
- 5-speed automatic transmission
- All-wheel drive
- 22MPG (highway) & 16MPG (city)
- Max towing capacity: 3,500 pounds
- Seating capacity: 7 people
First Generation Toyota Highlander 2001-2007
Before its launch, most of the SUV vehicles offered truck-like rides and performance.
The 1st Generation Toyota Highlander was built using the improved Camry platform with the main aim of achieving car-like performance (improved handling, comfort, and unibody structure).
In 2004, a new engine (3.3L V6) was introduced for more power, and this time, it was paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.
A year later (2005), the Hybrid model was launched and became the first-ever Hybrid SUV that could comfortably accommodate seven people.
Key Features
- 3L V6 engine (155 hp &163 lb-ft torque)
- 4-cylinder engine (220hp & 222 lb-ft torque)
- 2-wheel drive & 4-wheel drive
- 4-speed automatic transmission
- 21MPG (highway) & 16MPG (city)
- Max towing capacity: 2,000 pounds
- Seating capacity: 5 people
What is Toyota Highlander good at?
Although the Toyota Highlander is highly-priced or expensive. It offers more features and technology for improved safety, responsive handling, efficiency, and superior reliability.
Chevy Traverse VS Toyota Highlander: Common Differences
01. Power
The Chevy Traverse is mighty, making it a more robust design than the Toyota Highlander.
02. Performance
Both the Chevy Traverse & Toyota Highlander offer versatility and improved car-like operation and performance.
However, the Toyota Highlander offers various performance-enhancing features that make it a thoroughly modern automobile.
03. Drive
Both generations of Chevy Traverse come in front-wheel-drive (FWD) & all-wheel-drive (AWD).
The Toyota Highlander has 2-wheel drive (2WD), 4-wheel drive (4WD), and all-wheel drive (AWD) across its generations.
04. Safety
Both the Chevy Traverse and Toyota Highlander are equipped with advanced features to guarantee drivers’ safety and protection on the road.
However, the Toyota Highlander possesses some safety tools/features (adaptive cruise control and the lane-keeping assist) not present in the Traverse.
05. Value
The Chevy Traverse is a lot cheaper than the most affordable Toyota Highlander.
06. Reliability
Toyota as a brand has an excellent reputation when it comes to reliability. In terms of resale value, the Toyota Highlander leads the way.
07. Space
One of Chevy Traverse’s significant advantages is the size (204 inches in length). It is 9-inch longer than the Toyota Highlander.
The extra length guarantees a more spacious interior, especially in the 3rd seat row.
Also, the Chevy Traverse offers a larger cargo storage capacity than the Toyota Highlander.
08. Features
The Toyota Highlander comes with more advanced and sophisticated features missing in the Chevy Traverse, and this says more about why it is the more expensive option out of the two designs.
Some notable features are the power driver’s seat, 3-zone climatic control, and LED headlights.
Comparative Difference Between Chevy Traverse and Toyota Highlander: Chevy Traverse VS Toyota Highlander
1st generation Chevy Traverse vs. 3rd generation Toyota Highlander
Power
The 3rd Generation Toyota Highlander 3.6L V6 engine provides more power (298hp) than the 1st Generation Chevy Traverse (281hp). However, they both have a similar max towing capacity (5,000 pounds).
Performance
The 3rd Generation Toyota Highlander is equipped with more features that improve performance considerably. This is evident in the superior handling and smooth ride quality it offers while driving on the road.
The 3rd Generation Toyota Highlander has an EPA mileage estimate of 24MPG (highway) & 18MPG (city), compared to Traverse’s 1st Generation 24MPG (highway) & 17MPG (city).
Drive
The 3rd Generation Toyota Highlander has the all-wheel-drive system, while the 1st Generation Chevy Traverse has front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
Value
The 3rd Generation Toyota Highlander costs about $34,000 on average compared to Chevy Traverse’s $29,595.
Reliability
The 3rd Generation Toyota Highlander commands superior reliability and resale value than the 1st Generation Chevy Traverse.
Space
The 1st Generation Chevy Traverse & 3rd generation Toyota Highlander can accommodate eight passengers. However, the Chevy Traverse offers a larger cargo space.
2020 Chevy Traverse vs. 2024 Toyota Highlander
Power
The 2024 Chevy Traverse 3.6L V6 engine provides more power (305hp) than the 2024 Toyota Highlander (295hp). However, they both have a similar max towing capacity (5,000 pounds).
Performance
The 2024 Toyota Highlander is equipped with more modern features for superior safety & performance.
The 2024 Toyota Highlander has an EPA mileage estimate of 27MPG (highway) & 20MPG (city), compared to 2024 Chevy Traverse’s 27MPG (highway) & 18MPG (city).
Drive
The 2024 Toyota Highlander operates the all-wheel-drive (AWD) system 8-speed automatic transmission. The 2024 Chevy Traverse has a front-wheel-drive (FWD) system and 9-speed automatic transmission.
Value
The 2024 Chevy Traverse is more affordable ($35,400 average price) than the 2024 Toyota Highlander ($41,200 average price).
Reliability
The 2024 Toyota Highlander offers more reliability and a better resale value.
Space
The 2024 Chevy Traverse is a few inches longer than the 2024 Toyota Highlander for improved comfort and storage. The Traverse has a cargo space of 23 cu ft behind the third row, seven cu ft more than what the Toyota Highlander offers (16 cu ft). This may expand to 98.2 cu ft when the 2nd and 3rd seat rows are folded, 14.1 cu ft more than the Toyota Highlander offers (84.3 cu ft).
Also, both vehicles can accommodate eight passengers comfortably.
2024 Chevy Traverse vs. 2024 Toyota Highlander
Power
The 2024 Chevy Traverse 3.6L V6 engine provides more power (310hp) than the 2024 Toyota Highlander (295hp). However, they both have a similar max towing capacity (5,000 pounds).
Performance
The 2024 Toyota Highlander comes with more modern features for superior safety & performance. Its high-responsive handling has generated a lot of positive reviews and feedback from owners.
The 2024 Toyota Highlander has an EPA mileage estimate of 27MPG (highway) & 20MPG (city), compared to 2024 Chevy Traverse’s 25MPG (highway) & 17MPG (city).
Drive
The 2024 Chevy Traverse has an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system and 9-speed automatic transmission. The 2024 Toyota Highlander uses the all-wheel-drive (AWD) system and 8-speed automatic transmission.
Value
The 2024 Chevy Traverse is more affordable ($39,200 average) than the 2024 Toyota Highlander ($41,685 average price).
Reliability
The 2024 Toyota Highlander offers more reliability and a better resale value.
Space
The 2024 Chevy Traverse is more extensive (a few inches longer) for improved comfort and storage.
Both vehicles share a similar cargo space and seating capacity as the 2024 model.
Which one to Choose? Chevy Traverse or Toyota Highlander!
If you are okay with the basics or cannot afford to pay a higher price, the Chevy Traverse may be a reasonable choice.
However, we think the Toyota Highlander possesses features that car owners will find more thrilling and be happier with, making it very efficient for anyone.
Also, these features give it a feeling of an improved/advanced modern design.
FAQs
How big is the Chevy Traverse compared to Toyota Highlander?
In terms of size, the Chevy Traverse is generally larger than the Toyota Highlander. The Traverse has a longer wheelbase, wider body, and taller height than the Highlander, making it more spacious and accommodating for passengers and cargo. However, it’s worth noting that the exact dimensions can vary depending on the model year and specific trim level.
How long can Chevy Traverse last?
The lifespan of a Chevy Traverse can vary depending on various factors such as maintenance, driving habits, and the environment in which it operates. However, with proper care and maintenance, a Chevy Traverse can last up to 200,000 miles or more. The longevity of a Chevy Traverse can also be influenced by factors such as the model year, the condition of the vehicle, and the frequency of repairs. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help extend the lifespan of a Chevy Traverse.
How long can Toyota Highlander last?
The Toyota Highlander is known for its reliability and longevity. With proper maintenance and care, a Toyota Highlander can last for well over 200,000 miles or more. Some drivers have reported driving their Highlanders for 300,000 miles or even 400,000 miles. Of course, the lifespan of any vehicle depends on several factors such as maintenance history, driving conditions, and overall usage. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and good driving habits can help extend the life of a Toyota Highlander.
What is the average total annual maintenance & repair cost for Chevy Traverse?
According to RepairPal, the average total annual maintenance and repair cost for a Chevy Traverse is around $650. This cost includes both scheduled maintenance and unscheduled repairs. However, the actual cost may vary depending on various factors, such as the age of the vehicle, the mileage, and the type of repairs needed. It’s important to stay up-to-date with regular maintenance to help prevent larger, more expensive repairs in the future.
What is the average total annual maintenance & repair cost for Toyota Highlander?
According to RepairPal, the average annual maintenance and repair cost for a Toyota Highlander is around $550. This cost is relatively low compared to other midsize SUVs in its class, and it is due to Highlander’s reputation for reliability and low repair costs. However, the actual cost may vary depending on the age of the vehicle, mileage, and the level of maintenance needed. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, can help keep the cost of repairs down in the long run.
Verdict
So far, we have discussed/highlighted Chevy Traverse vs Toyota Highlander comparison to give prospective buyers better insight into these two vehicles.
We hope the revelations made about both SUVs will help you make an informed purchase decision as you choose the design that fulfills your driving needs and delivers immense value on investment.
