2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered a range of trims, including the LS, LT, Z71, and RS. The Z71 was a new addition, designed for those interested in moderate off-roading. During test drives near Atlanta, it was clear that the Z71 wasn't built for extreme terrains like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco but could handle reasonably rugged paths. Pricing for the Traverse was competitive, starting at $38,995 for the LS and reaching $55,595 for the RS. The Z71 model, priced at $47,795, featured 18-inch alloy wheels and an Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint, with a Jet Black interior accented by "Torch Red" details.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h Black Line Special Edition, was priced at $75,000 and featured an exclusive Incognito paint job with orange brake calipers. Despite its price, the RX's design was considered unremarkable, with a large front grille and a distinctive rear haunch. The RX lineup included the RX 350h, RX 500h, and RX 450h+, each offering different power and efficiency levels. The RX 500h, with 366 hp, was the most powerful but less fuel-efficient. The interior was modern, with quality materials and ambient lighting, though some controls were ergonomically challenging.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-hp V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offered more power and torque than its predecessor. The Z71 trim featured an advanced AWD system with a dual-clutch arrangement for better grip. The Traverse provided satisfactory acceleration and a pleasant exhaust note. Its steering was adequate, and the ride quality was commendable, even with all-terrain tires. The brakes were progressive, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three models: the RX 350h with 246 hp, the RX 450h+ with 304 hp, and the RX 500h with 366 hp. The RX 500h featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, providing quick acceleration but lower fuel efficiency. It included a sport-tuned suspension, 21-inch wheels, and a Direct4 AWD system. The RX 500h was powerful and quiet on highways but lacked dynamic communication, making it less rewarding to drive. Its fuel economy was lower than expected, averaging 20.9 mpg during testing.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the base LS model, while the LT, Z71, and RS trims featured seven seats with captain’s chairs. The Smart Slide second-row seats improved access to the third row, which was suitable for average-sized adults. The Traverse provided 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 96 cubic feet with seats folded. It included numerous storage options, such as a hidden area under the center console. Visibility was generally good, though the third row had limited views.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on comfort and cargo space, with the RX 500h F Sport Performance offering snug front seats and a panoramic sunroof. The rear seats were spacious and comfortable, with optional power-reclining features. The RX provided 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space, with a hands-free power liftgate and foldable second-row seats, expanding the cargo volume to 46.2 cubic feet. Interior storage was practical, though some areas lacked lining, causing potential noise.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch digital instrument display. The system ran on Google-based software, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Traverse included physical controls for volume and HVAC functions, though some controls were less intuitive. Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, was available, expanding its functionality to more roads.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display. The Lexus Interface system offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a digital voice assistant. However, steering wheel controls were distracting and challenging to use. The RX featured a head-up display and an optional Mark Levinson audio system, though some infotainment glitches were noted.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review. It included a comprehensive suite of driver aids, such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid came with Safety Connect and Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering features like forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. It also included Predictive Driving Assist and an optional surround-view camera. The RX received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA but a Poor rating from IIHS for frontal-impact protection.