Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs Chevrolet Traverse

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was priced at just over $50,000, with the base Hybrid LE starting at $51,435, including destination charges. In Canada, all-wheel drive was standard, while the U.S. offered a front-wheel drive version. The Highlander Hybrid XLE AWD came with a Special Edition package, and the Limited trim allowed for a Platinum package upgrade. The Limited trim with the Platinum package had an MSRP of $61,800 in Canada. The 2023 model saw minimal appearance changes, with a new Cypress Green paint colour. The design was considered over-styled, with exaggerated forms and a lack of subtlety both inside and out. The interior was criticized for its mismatched textures, reflections, and lack of quality, despite being quiet on the road.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available in three trims: LT, Z71, and RS, with the Z71 being a new addition for moderate off-roading. The Traverse LT started at $50,833, and the RS model reached $65,733. The Z71 model, priced at $56,833, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. The interior had Jet Black upholstery with "Torch Red" accents. The standard cloth seats were comfortable, and synthetic leather was optional. The Traverse was designed for a balance of rugged capability and comfort, with a focus on practicality and style.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, providing 243 combined horsepower. It weighed 2,060 kilograms in Limited trim and offered standard all-wheel drive. The electric motors assisted with acceleration and allowed for low-speed electric-only driving. The gas engine produced 175 pound-feet of torque, limiting high-speed passing power. Towing capacity was 1,588 kilograms, but the power was insufficient for heavy loads. The Highlander Hybrid featured Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, with a Trail mode for light off-road use. Fuel economy was a focus, with a Predictive Efficient Drive system, but real-world consumption was higher than expected at 8.2 L/100 km. The driving experience was described as uninspiring, with soft suspension and a noisy CVT.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower 3.6-litre V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive was standard, with the Z71 trim featuring a dual-clutch system for improved traction. The Traverse offered strong acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust note. The steering was adequate for most driving situations, and the ride quality was excellent, even with all-terrain tires. 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 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid accommodated seven or eight passengers, with most models featuring second-row captain’s chairs. The third-row seat was best for occasional use, and access was tight. Standard features included three-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats, with additional amenities in the Platinum package. The interior had a useful dashboard shelf and rubber-lined cupholders, but storage areas were unlined. Cargo space was 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,387 litres with the second-row seats folded.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the LT and Z71 trims, with the RS model featuring second-row captain’s chairs for seven-passenger capacity. The third row was suitable for average-size adults, and Smart Slide second-row seats improved access. The power-folding third row and Autosense power liftgate enhanced cargo flexibility. Cargo volume was 648 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,764 litres with seats folded. The cabin featured numerous storage options, including a hidden centre console area and underfloor storage in the cargo bay.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology, with upper trims featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment systems. The Limited trim had a 12.3-inch touchscreen with over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and connected service plans. The Drive Connect service plan offered advanced features like Intelligent Assistant and cloud-based navigation. The test vehicle included a head-up display and an 11-speaker JBL sound system. The infotainment platform was user-friendly, though graphics could be improved.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen standard on all models, with rapid response times and simple menus. An 11-inch digital instrument display provided customizable information. The system ran on Google-based software, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The wireless charging pad was effective, and physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were appreciated. Super Cruise hands-free driving aid was available, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads. The system disengaged at intersections, requiring driver adaptation.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with additional features on higher trims. The ADAS performed well, with some challenges in specific situations. Safety Connect provided emergency assistance and collision notification. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review. However, it offered a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and more. The surround-view parking camera and other features provided reassurance, though they were not tested during the review.