2020 Toyota Land Cruiser vs 2021 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser had a design that was understated yet functional, with subtle styling features that became apparent after spending time behind the wheel. Its hood was dished in the center to improve forward sight lines, enhancing the driver's ability to navigate obstacles. The fenders bulged slightly to accommodate wheel travel and visually indicated the vehicle's width. The Land Cruiser Heritage Edition added a touch of retro flair with blackened trim, a unique grille, and bronze BBS wheels. Inside, it offered a luxurious experience with black perforated leather-trimmed seating, a functional dash, and a 9-inch color touchscreen infotainment system. Despite its luxury, the interior was described as comfortable and functional, though somewhat plain.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse, in contrast, relied on styling details to differentiate its trim levels, with a generic SUV exterior that was clean and handsome. The RS model featured blacked-out trim, while higher trims like the High Country added chrome accents. The Traverse shared its platform with other GM crossovers but aimed for a more blue-collar feel. Inside, it offered a restrained design with an optional Dual SkyScape sunroof and materials that were decent for its price point. The Traverse's interior was spacious, with above-average headroom and legroom, and it boasted impressive cargo space. However, it lacked some interior storage options typical of midsize crossovers.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was powered by a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive, achieving an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 13 mpg city, 17 mpg highway, and 14 mpg combined. The Land Cruiser excelled in off-road performance with a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, Multi-Terrain Select control, and a Torsen limited-slip center differential. Its approach, departure, and breakover angles, along with 8.9 inches of ground clearance, made it a formidable off-road vehicle. Despite its size, the Land Cruiser offered a serene and relaxing driving experience, with controlled body roll and excellent visibility.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse came with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While it didn't feel as powerful as its specs suggested, it provided sufficient power for highway merging and overtaking. The Traverse impressed with its highway road manners, offering a quiet cabin and comfortable suspension. However, it lacked agility on twisty roads, partly due to its AWD system, which required manual activation. The Traverse offered off-road and tow/haul drive modes, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, which was average for its segment.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser featured a dual personality, with standard skid plates, tow hooks, and mudguards for off-road adventures. It offered a three-row configuration with heated second-row seats and a split-folding third row. The Land Cruiser boasted four-zone automatic climate control, numerous cup holders, and a cooling box in the center console. It could tow up to 8,100 pounds and featured a split tailgate for easy loading and unloading.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse provided seating for seven or eight, with above-average headroom and legroom. It excelled in cargo space, offering 23.0 cubic feet with all seats in place, 57.8 cubic feet with the third row stowed, and 98.2 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. The Traverse had a power liftgate and a power 60/40 split-folding third row on higher trims. However, it was somewhat limited in interior storage options compared to minivans.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser featured a Qi-compatible inductive charging station and Toyota Premium Audio with Integrated Navigation. It included a 9-inch touchscreen, 14 JBL speakers, and various audio options, but lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Enhanced Multi-Terrain Monitor camera system was a useful addition for navigating challenging terrain.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Higher trims offered an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a Bose audio system. The Traverse retained analog controls for audio and climate, and its rearview camera mirror improved visibility. It also featured USB ports for each row, with wireless phone charging available on higher trims.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it featured Toyota Safety Sense P, including pre-collision and lane-departure warnings. It also had the Star Safety System, 10 airbags, and various safety features like Trailer Sway Control and Safety Connect.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse received top "Good" scores from IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. However, it had "Acceptable" and "Poor" headlight ratings and offered less standard driver-assist tech than competitors. Features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking were optional extras.