2025 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2024 Lexus GX 550 marked a significant departure from its predecessor, the GX 470, with a bold new design that embraced geometric styling. The signature spindle grille was less pronounced, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights that sat at the squared-off upper edge of the front fascia. The front end stood more vertically, giving the SUV a more aggressive look, while the flat hood featured humps above each front wheel to aid off-road driving. The side profile was sleek, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline for better visibility. The GX was available in six trim levels, with the Premium+ expected to be the best-seller. Luxury trims focused on opulence with features like 22-inch wheels and ambient lighting, while the Overtrail trims were geared towards off-roading with 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires. Inside, the GX combined luxury with utility, featuring a 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road functions.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Traverse showcased a stylish exterior that was consistent with Chevrolet's SUV lineup. The interior design was appealing, with digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system. However, the quality of materials, such as hard plastic and Evotex artificial leather, left something to be desired. The Traverse was available in trims like LT, Z71, High Country, and RS, with prices ranging from $41,095 to $55,495. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road use, featured Radiant Red paint, a panoramic sunroof, and additional packages, bringing the MSRP to $55,900. Despite its stylish design, the Traverse's interior materials and quality did not match its price point.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain offered more power than its predecessor, with torque available low in the rev range for off-road driving. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX featured a stiffer chassis for stability on and off-road. It used a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear shifts. Standard full-time 4WD and a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential were included, with Overtrail trims adding a locking rear differential and the E-KDSS suspension system for enhanced off-road capability. The GX demonstrated impressive acceleration and braking, with a composed ride on-road despite its size.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. In FWD mode, it exhibited torque steer, but engaging AWD provided controlled acceleration. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road use, offered 7.7 inches of ground clearance, unique wheels, all-terrain tires, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. The Traverse handled trails well, with firm suspension and effective Off-Road mode. However, its size was noticeable on narrow roads, and the ride was smoother during daily driving. The Traverse achieved an EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving, slightly exceeding expectations during testing.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a minimalist and sophisticated interior design, with fewer physical buttons than its predecessor. It offered comfortable seating for six-foot-tall adults in the first and second rows, with 41.2 inches of legroom in the front and 36.7 inches in the second row. The third row was tight, suitable only for children. The GX excelled in cargo space, with 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 40.2 cubic feet with it folded, and a total of 76.9 cubic feet. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.5 cubic feet in total.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted significant interior volume, particularly in width. Front seat occupants enjoyed ample space, with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front seats. The Traverse offered eight-passenger seating with a second-row bench seat, while our test vehicle had captain's chairs. The third row provided adequate comfort but lacked a view due to window design. Storage space was commendable, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 56.6 cubic feet with it folded, and a maximum of 97.6 cubic feet. However, folding the third row required adjusting the second row, which was inconvenient.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a Drive Connect subscription service offering voice assistance. The GX included USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, and a 120-volt outlet. A 10-speaker audio system was standard, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available on higher trims. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, subscription costs after the initial trial period were a consideration for long-term ownership.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its standard 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Google Built-in, Alexa compatibility, and OnStar services. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, and SiriusXM 360L. The interface was intuitive, with effective Google Assistant voice recognition. The Traverse also had an 11-inch digital instrumentation panel with customizable views. Optional features included a digital rearview mirror and a surround-view camera system, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2024 Lexus GX received significant safety upgrades with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and road-sign recognition. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the modern GA-F architecture and advanced driver assistance systems inspired confidence in its safety.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and more. The Driver Confidence Package added a surround-view camera system and traffic sign recognition. The Enhanced Driving Package offered 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.