Chevy Traverse vs. Toyota Highlander: Which Three-Row SUV Is Better for Omaha Families?
Shopping for a three-row SUV often leads families to compare the Chevy Traverse vs. Toyota Highlander. Both vehicles offer flexible seating, modern safety technology and available all-weather capability, but their strengths are noticeably different.
The Toyota Highlander offers an available hybrid powertrain and a slightly more compact footprint. The Chevrolet Traverse counters with more horsepower, significantly more maximum cargo room, a larger standard touchscreen and a lower starting MSRP. For many growing families in Omaha, the Traverse offers the space and versatility needed for everyday driving, road trips and weekend adventures.
2026 Chevy Traverse vs. Toyota Highlander at a Glance
Specifications and availability may vary by trim, configuration and equipment. See the manufacturer or dealer for complete details.
Which SUV Has More Passenger and Cargo Space?
The Chevy Traverse has the advantage for families who prioritize interior space. Both SUVs can accommodate up to eight passengers when properly configured, but the Traverse provides considerably more room for cargo.
The 2026 Traverse offers:
- Up to 98 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume
- 56.6 cubic feet behind the second row
- 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row
- Available seating for up to eight
- A 60/40 split-folding third-row bench
- Smart Slide second-row seats for easier third-row access
The 2026 Highlander provides up to 84.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo room. That may be sufficient for daily errands, but the Traverse provides approximately 13.7 additional cubic feet when the rear rows are folded.
That extra capacity can make a meaningful difference when carrying luggage, sports equipment, home-improvement supplies or everything needed for a family road trip.
Space winner: Chevrolet Traverse
Traverse vs. Highlander Performance
Both SUVs use turbocharged four-cylinder engines with eight-speed automatic transmissions. However, the Traverse delivers stronger output.
The Traverse’s 2.5-liter turbocharged engine produces 328 horsepower and 326 lb.-ft. of torque. The Highlander’s 2.4-liter turbocharged gas engine generates 265 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque.
That gives the Traverse a 63-horsepower advantage. Drivers may appreciate that additional power when merging onto I-80, passing at highway speeds or traveling with a full cabin and loaded cargo area.
For shoppers primarily interested in fuel economy, the Highlander offers a hybrid powertrain producing 243 combined horsepower and an estimated 35 combined mpg. The Traverse does not currently offer a hybrid configuration.
Power winner: Chevrolet Traverse
Hybrid efficiency winner: Toyota Highlander
Towing Capability
The 2026 Chevy Traverse can tow up to 5,000 pounds with its included trailering equipment. Gas-powered Highlander models can also tow up to 5,000 pounds, while Highlander Hybrid models have a lower maximum capacity of 3,500 pounds.
Either gas-powered SUV may accommodate a small camper, utility trailer or recreational equipment when properly equipped. The Traverse combines its towing capability with more horsepower and additional interior cargo room, making it especially versatile for active households.
Towing result: Tie between the Traverse and gas Highlander
Technology and Connectivity
Technology is another area where the Chevrolet Traverse stands out. Every 2026 Traverse includes a 17.7-inch diagonal color touchscreen and an 11-inch Driver Information Center.
The standard Highlander touchscreen measures 8 inches, while a 12.3-inch screen is available or standard on select higher trims.
Available Traverse technology includes:
- Google built-in compatibility
- Wireless smartphone connectivity
- HD Surround Vision
- AutoSense Power Liftgate
- Available Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance
- Available OnStar connected services
- Multiple camera views and driver-assistance features
Available Super Cruise allows hands-free driving on compatible roads while the driver remains attentive. This can be especially appealing for longer trips outside Omaha.
Technology winner: Chevrolet Traverse
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Both vehicles offer extensive safety and driver-assistance technology.
The Traverse includes more than 20 standard safety and driver-assistance features, including:
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Front Pedestrian and Bicycle Braking
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
- Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert
- Rear Cross Traffic Braking
- Reverse Automatic Braking
- Rear Park Assist
- HD Rear Vision Camera
- Teen Driver technology
The Highlander comes with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes features such as a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert and Lane Tracing Assist.
Safety systems can support a more confident drive, but they do not replace attentive driving. Feature availability and operation may differ by model and trim.
Driving in Omaha Weather
An SUV for Omaha should be prepared for changing road conditions, including snow, ice, rain and summer construction zones.
All-wheel drive is available throughout the Traverse lineup. The rugged Traverse Z71 adds equipment designed for drivers who want extra capability, including:
- Advanced twin-clutch all-wheel drive
- Terrain Mode
- Hill Descent Control
- Off-road suspension
- Protective skid plate
- All-terrain tires
The 2026 Highlander includes standard all-wheel drive on both gas and hybrid models. Select gas trims use Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD and include Multi-Terrain Select.
The Highlander makes AWD standard, while the Traverse gives buyers a choice between front-wheel drive and AWD. Traverse shoppers seeking the most trail-ready configuration should consider the Z71.
Traverse and Highlander Trim Options
2026 Chevy Traverse Trims
The Traverse is available in four distinct trims:
- LT: A practical family-focused model with available eight-passenger seating
- Z71: A rugged trim with specialized AWD and off-road equipment
- High Country: A premium model with upscale design and comfort features
- RS: A sport-inspired model with black exterior accents and bold styling
High Country and RS models include Super Cruise capability with an eligible service plan.
2026 Toyota Highlander Trims
Gas-powered Highlander models are available in XLE, XSE, Limited and Platinum grades. Hybrid choices include XLE, Limited and Platinum.
The XSE emphasizes sportier styling and handling, while Limited and Platinum models add premium cabin and technology features.
Is the Traverse or Highlander a Better Value?
The 2026 Traverse begins at a lower MSRP than the 2026 Highlander while offering more horsepower, greater cargo capacity and a much larger standard touchscreen.
The Highlander’s standard AWD system and available hybrid powertrain will appeal to certain drivers. However, families focused on passenger flexibility, cargo room, technology and overall capability may find more value in the Traverse.
Actual purchase prices, incentives, financing offers and ownership costs vary. Compare similarly equipped trims to determine which model delivers the best value for your needs.
Chevy Traverse vs. Toyota Highlander: Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Chevy Traverse if you want:
- More horsepower
- More maximum cargo capacity
- A lower starting MSRP
- A larger standard touchscreen
- Available Super Cruise
- An off-road-focused Z71 model
- A choice between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive
Choose the Toyota Highlander if you prefer:
- An available hybrid powertrain
- Standard all-wheel drive
- A somewhat smaller three-row SUV
- Fuel economy as a leading priority
For many Omaha families, the Chevrolet Traverse is the stronger all-around choice. It delivers the space of a highly practical family SUV while offering modern technology, robust towing capability and trims ranging from value-focused to luxurious.
Shop Chevy Traverse SUVs in Omaha
Ready to experience the difference in person? Explore the new Chevy Traverse inventory at Woodhouse Chevrolet Omaha to compare available colors, trims and features.
Our team can help you evaluate your options, estimate your current vehicle’s trade-in value and find a payment plan that fits your budget. You can also start from home through our Omaha auto finance center.
Visit Woodhouse Chevrolet Omaha to test-drive a new Traverse and discover whether it is the right three-row SUV for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Chevy Traverse bigger than the Toyota Highlander?
Yes. The Traverse is the larger SUV and offers up to 98 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, compared with 84.3 cubic feet in the Highlander. Its larger interior may be more accommodating for passengers, luggage and family gear.
Which has more horsepower, the Traverse or Highlander?
The 2026 Traverse produces 328 horsepower. The gas-powered 2026 Highlander produces 265 horsepower, giving the Traverse a 63-horsepower advantage.
Which SUV can tow more?
The Traverse and gas-powered Highlander can each tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Highlander Hybrid models can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Do the Traverse and Highlander seat eight people?
Yes. Both SUVs offer seating for up to eight in select configurations. Other trims may seat seven with second-row captain’s chairs.
Does the Chevy Traverse offer all-wheel drive?
Yes. All-wheel drive is available on the Traverse. The Z71 features an advanced twin-clutch AWD system designed to provide additional capability.
Does the Chevy Traverse come in a hybrid?
No. The 2026 Traverse uses a turbocharged gasoline engine. The Highlander is available with either a gas or hybrid powertrain.
Is the Chevy Traverse good for Omaha winters?
The Traverse can be well suited to Omaha winters when equipped with available all-wheel drive and appropriate tires. The Z71 adds specialized AWD, Terrain Mode and other features intended to improve capability in challenging conditions.
Vehicle information was verified using current Chevrolet Traverse specifications and Toyota’s 2026 Highlander announcement. Pricing, specifications and availability are subject to change.
