2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available in three trims in Canada: LT, Z71, and RS. The Z71 was a new addition, designed for those seeking a three-row SUV with moderate off-roading capabilities. Chevrolet emphasized that the Z71 was not intended to compete with hardcore off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco but was capable of handling reasonably rugged terrain. The pricing was competitive, with the LT starting at $50,833 and the RS reaching up to $65,733. The Z71 model, priced at $56,833, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint, the latter being the most expensive colour option. The interior boasted "Torch Red" accents and standard cloth seats, with synthetic leather available for an additional cost.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h F Sport Black Line, was a $90,000 SUV with an exclusive Incognito paint job and orange brake calipers. Despite its high price and nearly every available feature, the RX's design was considered unremarkable, with a large front grille and dramatic rear haunches. The RX lineup included three models: RX 350h, RX 500h, and RX 450h+, each offering different power outputs and fuel efficiencies. All models came with standard AWD in Canada, and the RX 500h featured sport-tuned adaptive damping suspension and performance brakes. The interior was contemporary, with quality materials and ambient lighting, though the controls were a mix of intuitive and baffling.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower 3.6-litre V6 engine with a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offered 18 more horsepower and 50 more lb-ft of torque than the V6. AWD was standard across all trims in Canada, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced dual-clutch system. The Traverse provided acceptable acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust growl. The steering was adequate, and the ride was exemplary, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. The brakes were progressive, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. Fuel economy was rated at 12.4 L/100 km in the city, 9.9 on the highway, and 11.3 combined.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three models with varying performance. The RX 350h had 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, with a focus on fuel efficiency. The RX 450h+ PHEV delivered 304 hp and a 0-100 km/h time of 6.5 seconds. The RX 500h, with a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine, produced 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. The RX 500h featured a sport-tuned adaptive damping suspension, 21-inch wheels, and a Direct4 AWD system. Despite its power, the RX 500h's fuel economy was disappointing, averaging 13.5 L/100 km. The RX 500h excelled in straight-line acceleration but lacked dynamic capability and communication between the driver and the road.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the LT and Z71 trims, while the RS model featured second-row captain’s chairs, reducing capacity to seven. The third-row seats were suitable for average-size adults, and the Smart Slide second-row seats were easy to use. The power-folding third row and Autosense power liftgate enhanced cargo capacity, with 648 litres behind the third row and 2,764 litres with seats folded. The cabin had numerous storage options, including a hidden storage area under the centre console. Visibility was mostly positive, though the third row felt slightly enclosed. The Z71 had a power-operated driver’s seat, but the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on occupant comfort and cargo space, with the RX 500h featuring heated and ventilated front seats. However, the seats felt snug, and the climate system's fan was loud. The panoramic sunroof and optional power-reclining rear seats provided comfort, with ample room for adults. Interior storage was practical, though the rear centre armrest lacked lining. The RX Hybrid offered 838 litres of cargo space, with hooks for bags and a small underfloor storage area. Folding the second row increased cargo volume to 1,308 litres, which was limited for a midsize SUV.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, replacing the previous 8-inch screen. The system was responsive, with simple menus and an 11-inch digital instrument display. The Google-based software included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a wireless charging pad in the centre console. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained, though the driving mode button was less prominent. Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, was available for the first time, expanding its functionality to over 1.2 million kilometres of roads by 2025.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid was equipped with digital key functionality, a camera-based digital rearview mirror, and a hands-free power liftgate. The RX 500h featured a 14-inch touchscreen display with a volume knob and climate control dials. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a cloud-based navigation system. However, the steering wheel controls were distracting and difficult to use. The Mark Levinson audio system sounded great, but the steering wheel controls made adjusting volume challenging.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of testing. However, it offered a wide range of standard driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. These systems provided peace of mind during the test drive.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid came with Safety Connect, offering automatic collision notification and roadside assistance. Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist monitored forward progress, and a surround-view camera was available. The RX received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA but a Poor rating from IIHS for occupant protection.