2025 Chevrolet Traverse Against The Competition

Chevrolet Traverse

Toyota Highlander

Ford Explorer

How the Chevy Traverse Bests Its Competition

In the fiercely competitive three-row SUV segment, the Chevrolet Traverse continues to stand out. With its spacious interior, refined ride, advanced technology, and impressive performance, it often finds itself compared to rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer. While both competitors bring respectable qualities to the table, the Traverse models available at Bayside Chevrolet consistently edge them out in ways that matter most.

Disclaimer: The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price.

1Dealer Discount applied to everyone

Vehicle Comparison

 2025 Chevrolet Traverse2025 Toyota Highlander2025 Ford Explorer
Engine328 hp @ 5,500 rpm265 hp @ 6,000 rpm300 hp @ 5,500 rpm
DrivetrainFront wheel driveAll wheel driveAll wheel drive
Torque326 pound-feet @ 3,500 rpm310 pound-feet @ 1,700 rpm 310 pound-feet @ 3,500 rpm  
Transmission8-speed shiftable automatic8-speed shiftable automatic10-speed automatic
Wheel TypePainted alloy wheelsAlloy wheelsPainted alloy wheels
Fuel Capacity19.4 gal.17.9 gal.17.9 gal.
Drive Range (city/hwy/combined)388 to 524 miles376 to 501 miles358 to 483 miles
Length204.5 inches194.9 inches198.8 inches
Seating Capacity776

Traverse vs. Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander has been a go-to choice for years, but when you line it up next to the Chevy Traverse, some differences quickly become clear. The Highlander leans toward a slightly smaller, more compact footprint, which can be a plus for city driving. However, that tighter size comes at a cost, mainly in interior space and cargo capacity. The Traverse shines in these areas, giving families and adventurers alike more room to breathe.

  • Interior Space: The Traverse offers one of the most spacious third rows in the segment, comfortably seating adults, something the Highlander struggles with. Plus, with up to 98.2 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, the Traverse significantly outpaces the Highlander's 84.3 cubic feet.
  • Performance: Under the hood, the Traverse features a robust V6 engine producing 310 horsepower, offering a confident, smooth drive whether you're merging onto the highway or passing slower traffic. The Highlander's standard engine, while efficient, simply can't match the same balance of power and refinement.
  • Tech & Connectivity: Chevrolet's Infotainment 3 system delivers an intuitive interface with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ standard, plus an available Wi-Fi® hotspot. While the Highlander has similar offerings, Chevy's system feels more user-friendly and responsive in real-world use.

If passenger comfort and generous cargo space rank high on your list, the Traverse leaves the Highlander playing catch-up.

Traverse vs. Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer has been another mainstay in the midsize SUV market, but the Traverse gives it a serious run for its money, especially when it comes to ride comfort, interior design, and overall value. The Explorer's sportier persona appeals to some, but for families who value practicality without sacrificing style, the Traverse offers a more versatile approach.

  • Interior Comfort: While the Explorer's cabin is respectable, the Traverse's thoughtful design, wider third row, and generous legroom across all seating positions make it more comfortable for long trips.
  • Cargo Flexibility: The Traverse's maximum cargo volume once again surpasses the Explorer, giving you more flexibility for luggage, sports gear, or a big haul from the home improvement store.
  • Ride Quality: The Traverse delivers a smoother, quieter ride compared to the slightly firmer suspension feel of the Explorer. This makes it more enjoyable for road trips, commuting, and everything in between.
  • Value: When comparably equipped, the Traverse often comes in at a more competitive price point than the Explorer, especially when factoring in available incentives at your local Chevrolet dealer.

The Explorer might boast a rugged image, but when you prioritize comfort, usability, and value, the Traverse pulls ahead with ease.

What the Traverse Gets Right

While head-to-head specs are important, the Traverse also wins in ways that go beyond numbers on a chart. It's about how it feels on the road, how it adapts to your life, and how it makes everyday driving easier and more enjoyable.

  • Family-Friendly Features: Available rear-seat reminder, Teen Driver technology, and multiple USB ports throughout the cabin ensure everyone is connected and safe.
  • Design: From the bold front fascia to the clean, upscale interior, the Traverse manages to look both rugged and refined-a balance that works in suburban driveways and mountain trails alike.
  • Versatility: Whether you're hauling kids to practice, tackling a weekend DIY project, or heading out for a family road trip, the Traverse's flexible seating and cargo configurations make it ready for anything.

Why Choose the New Chevy Traverse in Bayside

In comparing the Chevrolet Traverse to the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer, a clear pattern emerges: the Traverse consistently offers more interior space, better third-row comfort, greater cargo capacity, and an overall driving experience that blends strength with refinement. While the Highlander and Explorer have their merits, the Traverse hits a sweet spot between power, comfort, and versatility that's hard to match.

Chevy's commitment to technology, safety, and everyday usability is evident throughout the Traverse lineup. It's an SUV designed not just for today's needs, but to adapt as your life changes, whether that means a growing family, bigger adventures, or simply the desire for a comfortable, stylish ride for daily commutes.

Experience the Traverse at Bayside Chevrolet

At the end of the day, comparisons on paper can only tell you so much. The best way to understand why the Chevrolet Traverse rises above its closest competitors is to get behind the wheel and feel the difference for yourself. At Bayside Chevrolet, our friendly, knowledgeable team is ready to show you every trim, color, and feature the Traverse has to offer. Whether you're coming from down the street or making the trip from neighboring towns, we'll make sure your experience is as enjoyable as the SUV itself. Stop by today, take a test drive, and see why so many drivers choose the Traverse as their go-to three-row SUV.

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    Prince Frederick, MD 20678

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