2021 Toyota Sequoia vs 2021 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse was a nod to the past, with Chevy using styling details to give each trim level a unique identity. Its exterior was a classic SUV design with a tall roof and chunky wheel arches, offering a cleaner look compared to some competitors. The Traverse's restrained styling highlighted cosmetic elements across different trims, such as blacked-out trim on the RS model and chrome on the High Country. Inside, the Traverse shared a platform with more premium GM models but maintained a blue-collar feel. The interior featured a Dual SkyScape sunroof and materials that were decent but not exceptional for its price.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia, introduced in 2007 and facelifted in 2018, showed its age despite updates. Its large silhouette overshadowed subtle design tweaks, and the interior felt dated with a mid-2000s dash design. The 7-inch touchscreen seemed small against the expansive dash. Despite its size, front seats were bulky, limiting headroom for taller drivers, though the second row offered ample space. The Sequoia's trims ranged from the entry-level SR5 to the off-road-focused TRD Pro and the luxurious Platinum, each adding unique features and styling touches.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the powertrain didn't feel particularly strong off the line, it provided sufficient power for highway driving. The Traverse excelled in highway comfort with a quiet cabin and smooth suspension but lacked agility on twisty roads. Its AWD system offered torque vectoring capabilities, though this wasn't noticeable during driving. The Traverse had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, which was average for its class.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia came with a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. This setup provided strong acceleration, even for a vehicle weighing up to 6,000 pounds. The Sequoia's driving dynamics resembled a truck, with a soft suspension and powerful brakes. It handled corners with some body roll but settled well due to its wide stance. The Sequoia could tow up to 7,400 pounds, trailing behind class leaders like the Ford Expedition.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven or eight, with above-average headroom and legroom across all rows. It excelled in cargo space, providing 23.0 cubic feet with all seats up, 57.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 98.2 cubic feet with all rear seats down. Higher trims featured a gesture-activated liftgate and a power-folding third row. Despite its size, interior storage was limited, typical for midsize crossovers.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia boasted a spacious cabin with nearly 19 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and 120 cubic feet with all seats folded. It featured a power-retractable rear window for easy access. While front-row space utilization could improve, the Sequoia offered deep door pockets and a large center console. It provided ample storage, though newer SUVs optimized space better.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse came with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Higher trims offered an 8-inch screen, navigation, and a Bose audio system. The interface was user-friendly, with analog controls for volume and climate. A rearview camera mirror and HD surround-view camera system enhanced visibility. USB ports were standard across all rows, with wireless charging available on top trims.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. Our test model had a 9-inch screen, which felt small on the large dash. The older infotainment system was simple to use, with large buttons for easy navigation. The digital trip computer was basic but functional, offering a straightforward user experience.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse received top "Good" scores from the IIHS in crash tests and a "Superior" rating for front-crash prevention. However, it had mixed headlight ratings and an "Acceptable" LATCH rating. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. Standard driver-assist features were limited, with many options available only on higher trims.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia came standard with Toyota Safety Sense-P, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It also featured blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors. While lacking advanced tech like lane-keeping assist, it offered a comprehensive safety suite. The Sequoia scored four stars in the NHTSA rollover test but lacked further crash test ratings.