Toyota 4Runner vs Chevrolet Traverse
The Toyota 4Runner and Chevrolet Traverse are evenly matched on fuel economy — both peak at 23 mpg combined — so the decision comes down to engine choice, drivetrain, and class.
Across 3 measured categories, the Toyota 4Runner leads in 2. Figures are EPA test data, not manufacturer claims.
2015–2026
Toyota 4Runner
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD · 42 configurations
2015–2027
Chevrolet Traverse
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD · 30 configurations
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Toyota 4Runner | Chevrolet Traverse |
|---|---|---|
| Best combined MPG | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Best city MPG | 23 mpg ✓ | 20 mpg |
| Best highway MPG | 26 mpg | 27 mpg ✓ |
| Lowest annual fuel costEPA estimate at 15,000 miles per year | $2,650 | $2,650 |
| Lowest CO2 output | 380 g/mi ✓ | 387 g/mi |
| Engines offered | SIDI & PFI; Hybrid, SIDI & PFI, SIDI & PFI; with Stop-Start, 4.0 | SIDI |
| Transmissions | Automatic (S8), Automatic (S5) | Automatic 8-spd, Automatic 9-spd, Automatic 6-spd |
| Drivetrains | 4-Wheel Drive, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel types | Regular | Regular, Premium |
| EPA class | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD |
| Years covered | 2015–2026 | 2015–2027 |
| Configurations on record | 42 | 30 |
Source: EPA fuel economy records via fueleconomy.gov. Best-case values across all recorded configurations for each model.
4Runner vs Traverse: common questions
Which is better on gas, the Toyota 4Runner or the Chevrolet Traverse?
The Toyota 4Runner and Chevrolet Traverse are evenly matched on fuel economy — both peak at 23 mpg combined — so the decision comes down to engine choice, drivetrain, and class.
Which costs less to run per year?
By EPA estimates at 15,000 miles a year, the Chevrolet Traverse runs about $2,650 a year in fuel at its most efficient configuration, versus about $2,650 for the Toyota 4Runner — a difference of roughly $0 per year.
What engines do the 4Runner and Traverse offer?
Toyota 4Runner: SIDI & PFI; Hybrid, SIDI & PFI, SIDI & PFI; with Stop-Start, 4.0. Chevrolet Traverse: SIDI.
Are they in the same vehicle class?
The EPA classifies the Toyota 4Runner as Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD and the Chevrolet Traverse as Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD, so they aren't a like-for-like match on size.
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Comparison id: toyota-4runner-vs-chevrolet-traverse