2012 Highlander vs. 2011 Chevrolet Traverse

july 2011Updated 7/29/11

Look inside for detailed info about this summary, important safety information and disclaimers, and walkaround advantages.

2009 Sentra 2.0 S

Top Highlander Advantages Over Traverse

First introduced as a new model for 2009, Chevrolet’s Traverse returns in 2010 with only minor changes. Mechanically related to GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave, Traverse is a larger vehicle than Highlander and offers seating for seven or eight passengers, depending on grade.

Highlander, with seating for seven passengers, has a range of clear-cut advantages—and offers much greater customer choice in powertrains. This Edge compares these two SUVs and illustrates Highlander’s many strong points. For more information, be sure to watch the Highlander vs. Traverse Edge Live for useful competitive demonstrations.

� POWER AND ECONOMYHighlander’s advanced DOHC Dual Independent VVT-i V6 is strong and fuel efficient.

� Better power-to-weight ratio Similar power with less weight means strong acceleration for Highlander.

� Better EPA-estimated fuel economy Highlander’s fuel economy can help keep operating expenses lower for owners.

� Available Highlander Hybrid Highlander Hybrid offers four-wheel drive and exceptional EPA-estimated fuel economy.Traverse four-wheel drive can’t compare.

� PASSENGER-FRIENDLY INTERIOR Highlander and Traverse both have comfortable interiors, but Highlander pulls ahead with versatility and roominess advantages.

� Center Stow™ second-row seat and Center Stow™ console Provides added interior versatility.

� Passenger space advantages Highlander offers more first- and second-row head room and leg room than Traverse.

� Luxurious seating Highlander SE includes the luxury of leather-trimmed seating. Traverse LT2 uses cloth.

� Standard moonroof Enjoy pleasant weather with Highlander SE’s standard moonroof. It’s an extra-cost option on Traverse.

� MORE COMPACT AND MANEUVERABLE Not only is Highlander more compact, it also has a tighter turning circle for greater maneuverability in tight quarters.

� Smaller package for easier parking Highlander is lower, narrower and over a foot shorter than Traverse.

� Greater maneuverability Highlander has a tighter turning circle.

� SAFETYHighlander’s long list of standard safety features outpaces Traverse.

� Comprehensive safety features Highlander includes active front headrests and a driver’s knee airbag, both not available on Traverse.

Chevrolet Traverse LS

2011 Highlander shown

COROLLA ADVANTAGES

20I2 HIGHLANDER vs. 20I1 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE

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Offered in four model grades, Traverse is available in two-or four-wheel drive. All grades are powered by a 3.6-liter V6, though the top LTZ trim gets a more powerful version that pushes horsepower from 281 to 288. An extensive options list allows Traverse customers to equip the vehicle to suit their needs. Here’s a look at some of the major features of the Traverse range:

LS Engine

3.6-liter 24-valve DOHC VVT V6

Transmission

6-speed automatic

Driveline

Two-wheel driveFour-wheel drive

Standard Features

8-passenger seating

Driver and front-passenger dual-stage airbags

Front seat side airbags

Side curtain airbags

Front seatbelt pretensioners

Tilt/telescoping steering column

60/40 split-folding 2nd-row bench seat

60/40 split-folding 3rd-row bench seat

Air conditioning

AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with 6 speakers

Cruise control

Keyless entry

OnStar®

17-inch steel wheels

Compare to

Highlander V6 grade

Chevrolet Traverse at a Glance

LT1

The LT1 differs from the LS by adding:

Standard Features

Body-color side moldings

Compass

Trip computer

Leather-wrapped steering wheel

Rear electronic parking aid

Power 8-way-adjustable driver’s seat

Driver power lumbar support

18-inch alloy wheels

Power sideview mirrors with turn indicators

Compare to

Highlander grade Highlander SE

LT2

The LT2 differs from the LT1 by adding:

Standard Features

7-passenger seating

Power liftgate

Bose audio system with 10 speakers

2nd-row audio controls

USB auxiliary input

3-zone automatic climate control

2nd-row reclining bucket seats

Electrochromic rearview mirror

Compare to

Highlander SE

LTZ

The LTZ differs from the LT2 by adding:

Standard Features

Bluetooth connectivity

Driver’s memory seat

Remote engine start

Universal garage-door opener

Leather-trimmed seating

Power 4-way-adjustable front-passenger seat

Front- and rear-door storage

20-inch alloy wheels

Electrochromic driver’s sideview mirror

Compare to

Highlander Limited

Chevrolet Traverse LS

Chevrolet Traverse LS

20I2 HIGHLANDER vs. 20I1 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE

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Both vehicles have advanced V6 engines with similar horsepower output. But combine Highlander’s power with its lighter weight, and the Toyota pulls ahead of the Chevy with a significantly better power-to-weight ratio.

� POWER AND ECONOMY

Highlander AdvantagesA Closer Look

Highlander SE V6 4WD

Traverse LT2 4WD

Engine size (liters) 3.5 3.6

Valves/valvetrain

24/DOHC Dual Independent VVT-i

24/DOHC VVT

Horsepower @ rpm 270@6200 281@6300

Torque @ rpm (lb.-ft.) 248@4700 266@3400

Curb weight (lbs.) 4266 5066

Power-to-weight ratio (lbs. per hp) 15.8:1 18.0:1

� PASSENGER-FRIENDLY INTERIOR

Center Stow™ second row seat and center stow consoleHighlander’s interior is unusually versatile. One of the more convenient features is the Center Stow second-row seat and Center Stow console. The Center Stow seat can be positioned between the two outboard seats to provide seating for a center passenger. When just two passengers are riding in the second row the Center Stow seat can be easily removed and replaced with a versatile and convenient center console. When not in use, the seat or the console can be stored in a special compartment located in the rear of the front console. Traverse doesn’t offer a comparable feature.

Superior power-to-weight ratio Better EPA-estimated city fuel economy

Dual Independent VVT-i helps give Highlander an edge in EPA-estimated city fuel economy.

Highlander V6 4WD Traverse 4WD

EPA est. fuel economy, city (mpg)1 17 16

Available Highlander Hybrid

When fuel economy is key, Traverse can’t match Highlander Hybrid. The four-wheel-drive Highlander Hybrid is rated at an EPA-estimated 28/28 mpg city/highway1. Traverse four-wheel drive trails with just 16/23 mpg.

Passenger space advantagesHighlander’s roomy interior offers great comfort in all three rows. Besides offering more head room in the second row, Highlander offers significantly more first- and second-row leg room than Traverse.

Highlander SE Traverse Toyota Advantage

Head room, 2nd row (in.) 40.1 39.4 0.7

Leg room, 1st /2nd row (in.) 43.2/38.3 41.3/36.8 1.9/1.5

Highlander Center Stow™ Second-Row Seat

luxurious seatingHighlander SE boasts luxurious leather-trimmed seating as standard. But it doesn’t stop there, because the front seats are also heated. These luxury appointments are extra-cost on Traverse LT2.

Highlander SE Traverse LT2

Leather-trimmed seating Standard Available

Heated front seats Standard Available

Standard moonroofWhat could be better than opening up the tilt/slide moonroof on a warm summer night’s drive? Highlander SE comes with that ability, standard. On Traverse LT2, it’s available only at additional cost.

Highlander SE Traverse LT2

Moonroof Standard Available

� MORE COMPACT AND MANEUVERABLE

A smaller package for easier parking

Traverse is wider, taller and much longer than Highlander. That means it may have a harder time negotiating crowded parking lots and small garages. Highlander owners have fewer parking hassles.

� SAFETY Comprehensive standard safety features

Both SUVs are well-equipped with safety features. But with its standard Star Safety System, driver’s knee airbag and front active headrests, Highlander not only matches Traverse feature-for-feature, it provides an extra measure of confidence.3

Highlander Traverse

Driver’s knee airbag Standard Not Available

Side and side curtain airbags Standard Standard

Front active headrests Standard Not Available

Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) Standard Not Available

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Standard Standard

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) Standard Standard

Traction Control (TRAC) Standard Standard

Highlander 4WD

Traverse 4WD

Toyota Advantage

Height (in.) 69.3 70.4 1.1

Length (in.) 188.4 205.0 16.6

Width (in.) 75.2 78.4 3.2

Better maneuverability

Not only is Highlander more compact, it also has a tighter turning circle for greater maneuverability in tight quarters.

Photo not intended to replicate actual inflated airbags

20I2 HIGHLANDER vs. 20I1 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE

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Highlander AdvantagesA Closer Look

Highlander

Highlander 4WD

Traverse 4WD

Toyota Advantage

Turning circle (ft.) 38.7 40.4 1.7

20I2 HIGHLANDER vs. 20I1 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE

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Highlander Hybrid AdvantagesA Closer Look

Of course, Highlander with Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) gets great fuel economy. Another benefit of HSD is reduced emissions and a smaller carbon footprint, reflected in its superior emissions rating.

� HYBRID EFFICIENCY

Highlander is unique among this class of vehicles for having such a wide range of powertrains, including 4- and 6-cylinder gas engines and a model with Hybrid Synergy Drive. The Highlander Hybrid is an intriguing option for shoppers and families who want it all: They can get room, versatility, convenience and luxury combined with exceptional fuel-economy and reduced emissions. Here’s a look at how Highlander Hybrid compares to the competition.

Impressive fuel economy

Highlander Hybrid is EPA-rated at 28 mpg city and 28 mpg highway1, significantly above Traverse’s ratings. With gas prices as unpredictable as they are, this could be a significant advantage.

Highlander Hybrid 4WD

Traverse 4WD

Toyota Advantage

EPA est. fuel economy, city (mpg)

28 16 12

EPA est. fuel economy, hwy (mpg)

28 23 5

lower emissions

Because Highlander Hybrid burns less fuel, it has fewer emissions. In fact, not only does Highlander Hybrid outperform Traverse on EPA tests, it’s so good it even outperforms some 4-cylinder subcompact vehicles.

Highlander Hybrid Traverse Toyota

Advantage

EPA Green-house Gas Score

7 3 4

EPA Air Pollution Score

7 5 2

(Scores range 1–10, 10 being best)

It may surprise you to learn that Highlander Hybrid is better equipped to tow larger loads than Traverse. So not only is the Toyota more efficient, it’s also more capable2. That’s a true win-win for the owner.

� BETTER FOR TOWING

Higher tow capacity

Highlander Hybrid has a standard tow capacity almost twice that of Traverse. Chevrolet offers extra-cost tow enhancements, but Toyota gives you extra capacity at no additional cost.

Highlander Hybrid Traverse Toyota

Advantage

Standard tow capacity (lbs.)

3500 2000 1500

Standard tow prep

Highlander Hybrid is so complete it doesn’t need a separate tow-prep package. On Traverse, it’s an extra charge.

Highlander Hybrid Traverse

Tow prep Standard Available

Wiring harness Standard Available

The driver and front-seat passenger in Highlander Hybrid enjoy more fully featured seating than what’s found in Traverse. That may make for more comfortable days on the road.

� ExTRA PASSENGER COMFORT

Seating adjustments

The driver’s seat in Highlander Hybrid boasts 10-way adjustability, which is more than what Traverse includes. And the front-passenger seat in Highlander Hybrid includes a power recline function not found in Traverse.

Highlander Hybrid Traverse LTZ

Driver’s seat 10-way adjustable

8-way adjustable

Front-passenger seat Power recline Manual recline

Highlander’s second-row seat adjusts fore and aft and has a smooth, carpeted floor. Traverse’s adjustable second-row seating is marred by hard floor areas with a series of large open tracks that can collect dirt and debris.

Highlander

vs. Traverse

Highlander offers features you won’t find on Traverse, like standard alloy wheels. Traverse LS comes with steel wheels.

Highlander’s Center Stow™ Second Row Seat and Center Stow Console provides versatility you won’t find in Traverse. With the center seat in place, there’s three passenger seating in the second row. The Center Stow Console can be removed from storage and positioned between the two outboard second-row seats. The seat section can then be tucked away neatly for storage. Traverse has only a conventional seat with flip-down center armrest.

Highlander

Highlander’s second-row seat base measures 14 inches high at its front edge, providing good thigh support and a comfortable leg angle. Traverse measures only about 12 inches in the same dimension. That can make for less comfortable seating.

vs. Traverse

Highlander vs. Traverse

Highlander vs. Traverse

20I2 HIGHLANDER vs. 20I1 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE

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Highlander WalkaroundCompare Highlander SE to Traverse LT2

1 2011 EPA mpg estimates. Actual mileage will vary. 2 Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any weight ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner’s Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on the total weight of any cargo, occupants and available equipment. 3 All the airbag (AB) systems are Supplemental Restraint Systems. All ABs (if installed) are designed to inflate only under certain conditions and in certain types of severe collisions: frontal and knee ABs typically inflate in frontal collisions; side and side curtain ABs in side collisions; Roll-Sensing Curtain ABs at a severe tilt degree, roll or lateral G-force. In all other accidents, the ABs will not inflate. To decrease the risk of injury from an inflating AB, always wear seatbelts, sit upright in the middle of the seat as far back as possible and do not lean against the door. Do not put objects in front of an AB or around the seatback. Do not use a rearward-facing child seat in any front passenger seat. The force of an inflating AB may cause serious injury or death. See your Owner’s Manual for further information/warnings.

Competitive Comparison reflects most current information available for stated model year vehicle. Competitive vehicle data sourced from Polk Price & Specifications Professional and from competitor Web sites May 2010. All information is believed to be correct at date of printing and is subject to change without notice.

©2011 TOYOTA MOTOR SALES, U.S.A., INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. COPYING OR ANY OTHER REPRODUCTION, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, WITHOUT THE EXPRESS WRITTEN PERMISSION OF TOYOTA MOTOR SALES, U.S.A. IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., by the publication and/or dissemination of this publication does not create any warranties, either expressed or implied, as to Toyota products. The information contained herein was up-to-date at the time of publication, but may subsequently be changed or added to without notice and without incurring any obligation. Reliance on this information creates no

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