2026 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 2026 Toyota Highlander in Squamish, BC
2026 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 2026 Toyota Highlander at Greg Gardner Motors
In the three‑row SUV segment, the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse and the 2026 Toyota Highlander are both hard to ignore. In many areas, they share several similarities, from flexible seating and modern tech to safety features, which makes choosing one over the other not so easy. But when you look at the numbers, the Traverse pulls ahead in terms of practicality and performance: it offers 648 L of cargo space behind the third row versus the Highlander’s 453 L, a 2.5L turbo engine with 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque, giving it stronger passing power than the Highlander’s 264 hp, along with a standard towing capacity of 2,267 kg (5,000 lb), while the Highlander requires an optional package to match. Read on as our team at Greg Gardner Motors breaks down how the Traverse and Highlander compare in detail.
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Practicality Comparison
When it comes to practicality, exterior styling isn’t the deciding factor. Everyone’s taste is different, and design is something you can easily judge from photos. What matters most in a three-row SUV is how well it works in real life, for example, interior space, cargo capacity, as well as any additional conveniences. Both the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse and the 2026 Toyota Highlander offer three rows of seating with available space for up to eight passengers. You’ll also find flexible second-row configurations in both models, with the choice between a bench seat or captain’s chairs. Where the 2026 Traverse pulls ahead is space management. Chevrolet has clearly taken a more thoughtful approach to maximizing usable room. Behind the third row, the Traverse offers 648 litres of cargo space, significantly more than the Highlander’s 453 litres. And when you fold both the second and third rows flat, the Traverse offers a best-in-class maximum cargo volume of 2,764 litres. That’s a huge advantage for drivers who regularly haul larger items or who want the flexibility of an SUV that can adapt to just about anything.
Performance Comparison
Engine Specs
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse outputs noticeably more power with its 2.5L turbo engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, compared to the 2026 Toyota Highlander’s 2.4L turbo engine with 264 horsepower, not to mention both have pretty similar fuel efficiency.
Towing Capacity
Both the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse and the 2026 Toyota Highlander can tow up to 2,267 kg (5,000 lb). But, with the Traverse, that towing capacity comes standard thanks to the included trailering equipment package. With the Highlander, you have to pay extra to upgrade to the available towing package before you can reach the same numbers. So, why pay more when the Traverse gives you full towing capability right out of the gate?
| 2026 Chevrolet Traverse | 2026 Toyota Highlander | |
| Engine Type | 2.5L Turbo | 2.4L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 328 | 264 |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 326 | N/A |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy L/100km) | 12.3 / 9.9 | 11 / 8.4 |
| Towing Capacity (lbs) | 5,000 | 5,000 |
2026 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 2026 Toyota Highlander Verdict
Sure, both the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse and the 2026 Toyota Highlander are solid three‑row SUVs with their own strengths. After comparing them, it’s clear that the Traverse pulls ahead in a few key areas. You get more interior space, better cargo capacity, stronger power, and full towing capability. By the way, the Traverse was just named #1 for New Vehicle Quality among Upper Midsize SUVs by J.D. Power, which should give you extra confidence in its reliability.
Shop the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse at Greg Gardner Motors in Squamish, BC
We hope we’ve helped you see which one comes out on top, but if you’re still not convinced, come see the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse for yourself and find out why it’s such a great SUV for families or whatever life throws your way. View our inventory online, stop by Greg Gardner Motors at 40310 Government Road in Squamish, BC, or simply give us a call at 1‑866‑561‑1502 to take one for a test drive, today.