2017 Toyota Highlander vs 2017 Chevy Traverse

Differences Between the Toyota Highlander and Chevy Traverse

Families in search of a brand-new crossover or SUV undoubtedly have price at the top of their car-buying list and the Toyota Highlander fits the bill. With a base MSRP of just $30,630, the Toyota Highlander is an affordable, athletic and efficient addition to your family that includes an arsenal of standard features. Chevy Traverse editions provide a similar price point.

Power and performance are key elements of this 2017 Toyota Highlander vs 2017 Chevy Traverse comparison at J. Pauley Toyota. Entry-level Toyota Highlander models play host to a 185-horsepower 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Base Toyota Highlander models make 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

A fan favorite 3.5-liter V-6 engine with Toyota D-4S direct and port fuel injection is a new addition to the Toyota Highlander spec sheet that manufactures 295 horsepower. Paired with a responsive Direct-Shift eight-speed automatic transmission, the six-cylinder Highlander will achieve an incredible 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Chevy Traverse possesses a single powertrain that consists of a 281-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6 that is paired with a six-speed automatic and makes a lackluster 15 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. An upgrade to the Chevy Traverse Premier adds dual exhaust and will amp up power to 288 horsepower.

An element that sets the Toyota Highlander apart from countless competitors is the innovative and efficient hybrid powertrain. With a refined 3.5-liter V-6 engine that is paired with a high-torque electric motor, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid variant makes 306 horsepower. Controlled by an ultra-efficient continuously variable transmission, the hybrid Highlander will deliver 30 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive is standard for hybrid models.

Safety is an added focus of the 2017 Toyota Highlander with standard Toyota Safety Sense technology. Toyota Safety Sense adds a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Automatic High Beams to the Highlander spec sheet. Armed with Toyota Safety Sense, the 2017 Toyota Highlander is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, an accolade that the Chevy Traverse cannot claim.