2025 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was a testament to Chevrolet's knack for crafting visually appealing SUVs, from the Trax to the Suburban. Its exterior styling was generally well-received, with only minor details detracting from its overall aesthetic. Inside, the Traverse continued this trend with digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system that offered an attractive layout. However, the quality of materials used in the interior left much to be desired. The hard, glossy plastic and Evotex artificial leather failed to convincingly mimic genuine leather, which was disappointing given the Traverse's price point.

In contrast, the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser offered a more traditional SUV design with a focus on utility and off-road capability. The Cruiser trim, in particular, provided a modern and upscale appearance, with larger screens and a more refined interior compared to the base 1958 model. The Premium Package added real leather and additional tech features, enhancing the overall experience. Despite its utilitarian design, the Land Cruiser's interior was comfortable, with Java-coloured leather adding a touch of elegance. However, the limited colour options and high load floor for cargo were noted drawbacks.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. While the engine delivered ample power, its exhaust note was less than pleasing. The Traverse's all-wheel-drive system, engaged via a dashboard button, provided controlled and satisfying acceleration, minimizing front-wheel spin and torque steer. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road adventures, offered increased ground clearance, unique wheels, and a more capable AWD system. Despite its off-road enhancements, the Z71's tires and suspension were most beneficial for everyday driving, providing a smoother ride on rough roads. The Traverse's fuel efficiency was commendable, averaging 10.9 L/100 km, slightly better than the official estimate.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser featured Toyota's i-Force Max hybrid system, combining a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine with an electric motor to produce 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. This setup, paired with a full-time 4WD system, allowed for a towing capacity of 2,720 kilograms. The Land Cruiser excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to features like Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control. However, its handling on twisty roads was less impressive due to its tires and suspension tuning. The Land Cruiser's fuel consumption was higher than expected, averaging 15.0 L/100 km during testing, despite official ratings suggesting 10.1 L/100 km.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a spacious interior, particularly in terms of width, providing ample room for front-seat occupants. The eight-passenger seating capacity, with available second-row captain's chairs, made it one of the most accommodating vehicles in its class. However, the third-row seats lacked a view due to the rear window design, and the absence of USB ports was a drawback for passengers. Cargo space was generous, with 648 litres behind the third row and up to 2,764 litres with seats folded, though folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser offered a comfortable front seating experience, especially with the Premium Package's real leather and ventilated seats. However, the second-row seats were less comfortable, lacking thigh support and offering an awkward backrest angle. The Land Cruiser's cargo space was substantial, with 1,062 litres available behind the rear seats and 2,324 litres with seats folded. The high load floor made loading heavy items challenging, and the rear window design limited airflow through the cabin.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse featured a standout 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and access to the Google Play Store. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot were standard, along with an 11-inch digital instrumentation panel. The Traverse's technology was user-friendly, with effective voice recognition and a high-definition surround-view camera system for easier maneuvering.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser's Cruiser trim upgraded to dual 12.3-inch displays, offering a sophisticated infotainment experience with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a JBL premium sound system. The Drive Connect feature provided cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant, enhancing the overall tech experience. The Premium Package added a head-up display and digital rearview mirror, further elevating the Land Cruiser's technology offerings.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features under the Chevy Safety Assist umbrella, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The Enhanced Driving Package added Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, and remote-parking technology. The Traverse received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser featured Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering advanced driving assistance systems like forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Premium Package added front cross-traffic alert and Traffic Jam Assist. The Land Cruiser received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with mixed results in specific tests.