2025 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2025 Toyota Sienna

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse showcased a commendable exterior design, aligning with Chevrolet's recent trend of stylish SUVs. Its interior followed suit with digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system, offering an appealing layout. However, the quality of materials used was a letdown, with hard, glossy plastics and Evotex artificial leather that failed to convincingly mimic genuine leather. This was particularly disappointing given the Traverse's higher price point. The Z71 trim, tested with a price of $55,900, included features like Radiant Red paint, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driving packages, but the material quality did not match the vehicle's cost.

In contrast, the 2025 Toyota Sienna attempted to break the traditional minivan mold with its trapezoidal grille and upswept body lines, yet it still retained the quintessential minivan look. The Platinum trim, priced at $58,634, featured new flower-petal wheel designs and a Magnetic Gray paint color. Inside, Toyota updated the Sienna's interior with a new woodgrain finish, though it received mixed reviews. While the Sienna's interior was considered an improvement, the design choices, such as the fading woodgrain, were not universally appreciated. Despite these efforts, the Sienna remained a practical choice for those prioritizing space and functionality over style.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. Despite its unrefined exhaust note, the engine delivered ample power, especially in all-wheel-drive mode, providing rapid and controlled acceleration. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road adventures, offered 7.7 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. It excelled on trails and rough terrain, with its suspension and tires absorbing bumps effectively. However, the Traverse's size was noticeable on narrow roads, and its sporty driving modes did not live up to expectations. The vehicle achieved an EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving, slightly surpassed during testing.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a CVT, delivering a net horsepower of 245. While not particularly powerful, the electric motor's torque provided adequate acceleration, preventing the Sienna from feeling sluggish. The hybrid system prioritized fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of 36 mpg in combined driving, though the test model averaged 26.3 mpg. The Sienna's handling was predictable but not engaging, with a smooth ride and minimal body roll. The XSE trim offered a sport-tuned suspension for a slightly more dynamic experience, but overall, the Sienna prioritized comfort over performance.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a spacious interior, particularly in terms of width, accommodating up to eight passengers. The Z71 trim featured heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort during cold weather. However, the Traverse lacked some family-friendly features, such as third-row USB ports and easily accessible storage solutions. Cargo space was generous, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 97.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. Folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats, which could be inconvenient.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna offered innovative seating solutions, with power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs with ottoman-style leg rests were popular among passengers, and the third row accommodated adults comfortably. The Sienna's cargo space was practical, with 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 101 cubic feet. However, the lack of removable second-row seats limited its cargo capacity compared to rivals. The Sienna's design prioritized ease of use, with sliding side doors and a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Google Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with effective voice recognition and a simple interface. The Traverse also offered an 11-inch digital instrumentation panel with customizable views. Optional features included a digital rearview mirror and a high-definition surround-view camera system, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna's higher-spec models featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the Toyota Audio Multimedia system. The Platinum trim included a four-zone climate control system, a head-up display, and a digital rearview mirror. The TAM system offered various connected services, with a digital assistant that responded accurately to voice commands. The Sienna's infotainment system was complemented by a 12-speaker JBL audio system, though the sound quality required adjustment for optimal performance.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Driver Confidence Package added features like a surround-view camera system and traffic sign recognition. The Enhanced Driving Package introduced Super Cruise, a hands-free driving assist system, which was effective but not flawless. The Traverse received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna featured TSS 2.0, offering forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. While not the latest version, TSS 2.0 provided a more straightforward driving experience. The Sienna also included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. A new rear-seat reminder system was a thoughtful addition for families. The Sienna received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though its frontal crash-test results were less impressive, and it did not earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.