2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2025 Toyota Sienna

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available in four main trims: LS, LT, Z71, and RS. The Z71 was the new addition, designed for those interested in moderate off-roading. During test drives near Atlanta, Chevrolet emphasized that the Z71 was not intended to compete with hardcore off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco. Instead, it was built to handle reasonably rugged terrain. Pricing for the Traverse started at $38,995 for the LS model and went up to $55,595 for the RS model. The Z71, priced at $47,795, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint, with a Jet Black interior accented by "Torch Red" highlights. The standard cloth seats were comfortable, though synthetic leather was available for an additional cost.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna, while still resembling a traditional minivan, attempted to add style with features like a trapezoidal grille and upswept body lines. The Platinum trim introduced new flower-petal wheel designs. Despite these efforts, the Sienna maintained its minivan identity, offering practicality with seating for up to eight. The test vehicle, a Platinum model, was painted in Magnetic Gray and included features like an extended connected services subscription and all-weather floor mats. Pricing ranged from $40,980 to $57,940, with the test model priced at $58,634. The interior updates for 2025 included a new woodgrain finish, though opinions on its aesthetics varied. Overall, the Sienna's interior was considered an improvement over previous models.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower V6 engine with a turbocharged 2.5-liter 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 discontinued V6. All-wheel drive was optional across all trims, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced dual-clutch system. The Traverse provided satisfactory acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust growl during acceleration. The steering was adequate, though the vehicle's length was noticeable in tight spaces. The ride quality was commendable, 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 estimates ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway for the FWD Limited model.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The net horsepower was 245, which was modest for a vehicle seating up to eight and towing 3,500 pounds. However, the electric assist motor provided immediate torque, preventing the Sienna from feeling sluggish. The hybrid system prioritized fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 36 mpg combined for the FWD model. During testing, the Sienna averaged 26.3 mpg. The handling was predictable but not particularly engaging, with some squishiness in curves. The brakes experienced temporary fade during a mountain descent. The Sienna offered a smooth ride with excellent impact isolation, though the CVT's noise was noticeable during hard acceleration.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the base LS model, while the LT, Z71, and RS trims featured second-row captain's chairs, reducing capacity to seven. The Smart Slide second-row seats were easy to use, and the power-folding third row was a convenient feature. Cargo volume was 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The Traverse included numerous storage compartments, including a hidden area under the center console. Visibility was generally good, though the third row had limited views. The Z71 model had a power-operated driver's seat, but the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna focused on practicality, with power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs with ottoman-style leg rests were popular with passengers, and the third row accommodated adults comfortably. The Sienna offered generous storage, though finding secure spots for large water bottles was challenging. Cargo space was 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 75.2 cubic feet with the third row stowed. Maximum cargo capacity was 101 cubic feet, less than rivals due to the non-removable second-row seats. The Sienna's design prioritized ease of use over maximum load space.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, replacing the previous 8-inch screen. The system was responsive and easy to navigate, complemented by an 11-inch digital instrument display. The infotainment unit ran on Google-based software, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The wireless charging pad was effective, and physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were appreciated. The Traverse also introduced Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna's higher-spec models included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the Toyota Audio Multimedia (TAM) system. The Platinum model featured a four-zone climate control system, a 10-inch head-up display, and a digital rearview mirror. The TAM system offered various connected services, with a digital assistant responding to voice commands. The infotainment system integrated with Apple and Amazon Music accounts, though subscription lapses limited functionality. The Sienna Platinum included a 12-speaker JBL audio system, though sound quality was mixed. The climate control system and digital rearview camera were well-received.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of testing. However, it came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features provided peace of mind during the test drive.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna featured Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 2.0, which included forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. While not the latest version, TSS 2.0 was preferred for its less intrusive approach. The Sienna also had blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The new rear-seat reminder system was a thoughtful addition for families. The NHTSA awarded the Sienna a five-star overall rating, though it received lower scores in frontal crash tests.