2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander was part of a diverse lineup of Toyota crossovers and SUVs, offering both all-gas and hybrid options. Built on the TNGA-K platform, it shared its underpinnings with models like the Highlander and RAV4, distinguishing itself from the body-on-frame Sequoia. With a length of 201.4 inches and a wheelbase of 116.1 inches, it provided ample interior space. Its design was more conservative and blocky, reminiscent of rugged vehicles like the Ford Explorer. The Grand Highlander came in three trims: XLE, Limited, and Platinum, with interior options ranging from Softex synthetic leather to real leather. It featured a spacious interior with thoughtful amenities, making it a comfortable choice for road trips.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered four main trims: LS, LT, Z71, and RS, with the Z71 being a new addition for moderate off-roading. The Traverse was competitively priced, with the LS starting at $38,995 and the RS at $55,595. The Z71 model, priced at $47,795, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. Inside, the Jet Black interior was accented with "Torch Red" details. The Traverse provided a comfortable ride with standard cloth seats, though synthetic leather was available. It was designed for those seeking a balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability.

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander offered three engine options. The base 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produced 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. A 2.5-liter hybrid option delivered 245 combined horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. The top-tier Hybrid Max powertrain generated 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Both gas and hybrid engines were available with FWD and AWD, while the Hybrid Max was AWD only. The Grand Highlander excelled in acceleration, especially with the Hybrid Max, achieving 0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds. It featured three drive modes: Sport, Eco, and Normal, with additional modes for AWD models. The brakes were solid, and the steering, though a bit numb, was adequate for its size.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. AWD was optional on all trims, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced system. The Traverse offered satisfactory acceleration and a pleasant exhaust note. Its steering was effective, though the vehicle's length was noticeable. The ride was smooth, even with all-terrain tires, and the brakes were progressive. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 highway for the FWD Limited, with slightly lower figures for AWD models.

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander was larger than most rivals, measuring 201.4 inches long with a 116.1-inch wheelbase. It offered 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space, with 57.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 20.6 cubic feet with all seats up. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample head, leg, and shoulder room in all rows.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse provided seating for eight in the base LS model, with captain’s chairs standard in higher trims. It featured Smart Slide second-row seats and a power-folding third row. Cargo volume was 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96 cubic feet with seats folded. The Traverse included numerous storage options, such as a hidden storage area under the center console. Visibility was generally good, though the third row was slightly restricted.

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It offered features like dual-device Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. An intelligent assistant and cloud-based navigation were available via subscription. The Limited and Platinum trims included an 11-speaker JBL stereo.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch digital instrument display. It ran on Google-based software with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Traverse included a wireless charging pad and physical controls for volume and HVAC. Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, was available for the first time.

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander had not been crash-tested but included Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 as standard. This suite featured automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, lane-tracing assist, road-sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control with four following-distance settings.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse also awaited crash-test results but offered a comprehensive range of standard driver aids. These included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view parking camera.