Honda Odyssey vs Chevrolet Traverse

The 2025 Honda Odyssey maintained a familiar design lineage, reminiscent of its predecessors, with a straightforward and somewhat dated aesthetic. Its interior followed suit, featuring traditional buttons and knobs, which, while old-school, were appreciated for their practicality and ease of use. The Odyssey was available in EX-L, Sport-L, Touring, and Elite trims, with the base EX trim discontinued, resulting in a higher starting price of $42,220. The Elite trim, priced at $51,180, showcased a new Smoke Blue Pearl exterior and a refined interior with two-tone leather seats, offering a touch of class despite the minivan's utilitarian nature.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a more modern and appealing exterior design, consistent with Chevrolet's SUV lineup. Its interior featured digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system, enhancing its contemporary feel. However, the quality of materials, such as hard plastics and artificial leather, detracted from the overall impression. The Traverse was offered in LT, Z71, High Country, and RS trims, with prices ranging from $41,095 to $55,495. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road adventures, included features like a panoramic sunroof and advanced driving packages, with an MSRP of $55,900.

The 2025 Honda Odyssey was equipped with a reliable 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. While lacking all-wheel drive and hybrid options, the Odyssey delivered a commendable driving experience for a minivan, with a connected ride, responsive steering, and nimble handling. Its fuel economy was rated at 22 mpg combined, with real-world testing showing 21.4 mpg on a test loop and 24 mpg during extended travel. Despite its limitations compared to hybrid rivals, the Odyssey's performance and handling made it a worthwhile choice for those who enjoy driving.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, generating 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain provided ample acceleration, especially with all-wheel drive engaged, reducing torque steer and enhancing control. The Z71 trim, with its off-road suspension and all-terrain tires, offered increased ground clearance and capability for light off-roading. The Traverse's driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Normal, and Sport, catered to various driving conditions, though it felt large and less sporty on winding roads. The Traverse achieved an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined, with real-world testing slightly exceeding this estimate at 21.5 mpg.

The 2025 Honda Odyssey excelled in maximizing interior space, accommodating eight passengers and offering up to 140.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity. The Elite trim featured power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, though taller drivers might find legroom limited. The second-row Magic Slide seats provided flexibility, allowing for various configurations and easy access to the third row. However, removing these seats to maximize cargo space was cumbersome. The third-row seat was spacious enough for adults, and the Odyssey offered ample storage options throughout the cabin, along with features like Cabin Talk and Cabin Watch for parental convenience.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its spacious interior, particularly in terms of width. It offered eight-passenger seating with a second-row bench or captain's chairs, providing comfort and support. However, the lack of side window shades and third-row USB ports was a drawback for families. The Traverse provided 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 97.6 cubic feet with the second row folded. Folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats, which could be inconvenient. While storage space was adequate, some competitors offered more family-friendly features.

The 2025 Honda Odyssey received a technology update, featuring a 7-inch digital driver display and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the system was an improvement, it still lagged behind competitors in terms of graphics and voice recognition. The rear-seat entertainment system, though equipped with Amazon Fire TV, proved challenging to use without the right cables, frustrating users accustomed to more seamless connectivity.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse stood out with its impressive 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Google Built-in, Alexa compatibility, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The user interface was intuitive, and Google Assistant responded accurately to voice commands. The lack of a tuning knob was a minor inconvenience, but the steering wheel controls compensated for it. The Traverse also offered an 11-inch digital instrumentation panel with customizable views, enhancing the driving experience. Optional features like the digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera system added convenience and safety.

The 2025 Honda Odyssey came equipped with Honda Sensing, a suite of driver-assistance features including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. While generally effective, the system's lane-departure warning and adaptive cruise control could be improved for smoother operation. The Odyssey received high safety ratings from the NHTSA and performed well in IIHS tests, except for a new evaluation where it received a "Poor" rating.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse offered a comprehensive array of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and active blind-spot monitoring. The Driver Confidence Package added a surround-view camera system and traffic sign recognition, while the Enhanced Driving Package introduced Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid. Super Cruise was effective but had occasional limitations. The Traverse earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS.