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| 310 | Horsepower (hp) | 280 |
| 266 | Torque (lb-ft) | 262 |
| 98.2 | Cargo Space (cu.ft.) | 83.9 |
If you are in the market for a midsize SUV, then two models should take your attention before any others. These are the 2021 Chevy Traverse vs 2021 Honda Pilot. Loaded with state-of-the-art features and powered by robust engines, these two competitors put up quite a good fight.
For the warm-up round, let's take a peek at the insides of these two comfortable vehicles. Those considering a midsize SUV are probably looking for something family-friendly, and this means being big enough to hold the entire clan and their belongings. The 2021 Chevy Traverse has seating for up to eight people with 23 cubic feet of room behind the third row. On the other hand, the 2021 Honda Pilot can typically seat seven people with only 16.5 cubic feet of space in the rear. However, there is a particular configuration that will get you an eighth seat. The catch is that that eighth seat isn't very roomy.
If you fold the third row of seating down in the Traverse, you will get 57.8 cubic feet of space. On the other hand, the Pilot only offers 46.8 cubic feet. Finally, the maximum amount of space you can access in either vehicle is measured at 98.2 cubic feet for the Traverse and 83.9 cubic feet in the Pilot. As you can see, the Traverse offers more usable space without being much larger. So, if your family doesn't travel light, then the Chevy may have already won the fight!
Typically, midsize SUVs only come with one powertrain. Automakers don't bother giving options simply because the vehicle is so large that it would be redundant. With that being said, let's pop the hoods of both models to compare the performance output for the 2021 Chevy Traverse vs 2021 Honda Pilot.
Every Traverse is powered by a robust 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. It comes standard with front-wheel drive, but you can opt for all-wheel-drive if you prefer. Generating 310 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, this beast can certainly roar. With the ability to tow up to 5,000 pounds, you can even hook up a trailer for even more utility.
Switching gears, the 2021 Honda Pilot uses a slightly smaller 3.5-liter V6 motor that also comes equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Again, front-wheel drive is standard, and you can always opt for all-wheel-drive if you prefer. However, with only 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, this powertrain doesn't provide the same authority that the Traverse does when you are on the highway or have a trailer in tow.
When comparing the 2021 Chevy Traverse vs 2021 Honda Pilot from the inside, you have to look at all of the trims to get a comprehensive idea about what's going on inside the cabin. Both vehicles are available in seven unique trims. Let's break down each one to see what's inside.
The 2021 Chevy Traverse L is the base model. Featuring state-of-the-art technology, you will enjoy every ride you take in this beauty. The cabin is covered in cloth upholstery, and the second-row bench seat provides seating for eight people, so you don't have to leave anyone behind. Meanwhile, the advanced infotainment system is displayed on a standard 7-inch touchscreen that works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for smartphone integration. A 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot is also included standard to keep you connected to your loved ones and co-workers no matter where you are.
Comparatively, the 2021 Honda Pilot LX is the opposing base model. While it does come with the Honda Sensing package, it is missing vital infotainment features that make the ride enjoyable. Just look at the tiny 5-inch monitor for the infotainment system. With only Bluetooth technology to sync your phone, you will be missing out on the advanced smartphone integration and onboard internet offered by the Chevy Traverse L and will still be paying more for the Honda.
Moving on to the second trim level, the Traverse LS provides access to a long list of optional features, such as dark tinted rear windows for added privacy. As for the Pilot EX, it adds many of the features that the base model was missing. These include a touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The third trim for the Traverse is the LT Cloth model. It adds a power-adjustable driver's seat and second-row captain's chairs for comfort. You will also get SiriusXM satellite radio with access to over 200 ad-free channels. You can listen to sports, comedy shows, music, news, and so much more. Comparatively, the Pilot EX-L adds a sunroof, leather upholstery, and USB ports in the back. As you can see, the two vehicles are beginning to look a lot different from the inside.
Stepping up to the fourth trim adds a plethora of new features. Known as the Traverse LT Leather, this model comes with heated leather seats and a power-adjustable front passenger seat. Remote engine start is a nice touch as well, and the touchscreen has been enlarged to 8-inches. You will also get Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Rear Park Assist with this version of the Traverse. Available packages include the Chevy Safety Assist suite with Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning. As for the fourth Honda Pilot trim, it is known as the SE. The only interior upgrade it gets is a wireless charging pad.
At the fifth trim, this is another point where you can really see the differences between the two SUVs. The Traverse RS is a sporty ride with all of the aforementioned features, including the Chevy Safety Assist suite and the LT Premium package. You will also get a heated steering wheel. On the other hand, the Pilot Touring isn't a sporty version. It simply adds heated seats throughout the cabin, parking sensors, a navigation system, and a backseat DVD entertainment system.
The Chevy Traverse Premier is the sixth trim level, and it comes with heated seats throughout the cabin plus ventilated front seats. A wireless charging pad has also been added. Meanwhile, the Pilot Elite finally adds captains' chairs to the second-row, but ventilated front seats are still not an option.
As for the top-tier models, the Traverse High Country is quite impressive. It comes with everything mentioned above, plus a standard panoramic sunroof, a power-folding third row, and several trailering and safety enhancements. Adaptive Cruise Control is one of our favorites since it allows you to set a speed limit and the following distance. As for the Pilot, the top-tier Black Edition is exactly the same as the Elite except for the red interior trim.
Moving the exterior, comparing the 2021 Chevy Traverse vs the 2021 Honda Pilot showcases a lot of differences on the outside. Both models are offered in eight unique paint colors, but they do not look the same. Let's explore some of the exterior elements on both vehicles.
Riding on 18-inch alloy wheels, the Traverse L comes with heated side mirrors and automatic headlights. Meanwhile, the Pilot LX gets automatic headlights as well. On the Traverse LS, the only change is the deep-tinted rear windows. On the other hand, the Pilot EX finally gets heated side mirrors.
Fog lamps and roof rails have been added to Traverse LT Cloth, and a power liftgate has been installed on the Pilot EX-L. Then, the Traverse LT Leather gets rear parking sensors and a power liftgate. If you opt for the LT Premium package, it will add 20-inch wheels as well. Meanwhile, the Pilot SE gets a hands-free liftgate as the only change.
Rolling on 20-inch darkened wheels, the Traverse RS boasts a sportier look with its blacked-out accents. On the Pilot Touring, parking sensors have been added along with roof rails. Then, we have the Traverse Premier that includes LED headlights and a hands-free liftgate. Comparatively, the Pilot Elite adds auto-dimming and power-folding side mirrors. Finally, the top-of-the-line Traverse High Country comes with standard trailering enhancements, and the Pilot Black Edition gets darkened accents.
Located just outside of Atlanta, Rick Hendrick Chevrolet of Buford is your go-to place for all things Chevy. We offer a massive inventory of brand-new Chevy models as well as high-quality used vehicles, and you can even get all of your maintenance and vehicle services taken care of here as well. We also have an in-house team of financial experts who can help you secure the most competitive loan or lease terms possible. Our team of certified technicians is at your disposal for jobs large and small. You can make an appointment online at your earliest convenience, and they will have you back on the road as soon as possible. To learn more about our current inventory or services, pay us a visit or get in touch with our team today!
*Images, fuel economy, and other stats, may reflect higher trim levels, options, or features that may result in a higher cost from the starting MSRP.
MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, additional options, and possible destination charges. Dealers set own prices.