Thanks to their size and skills, the 2025 Chevy Trailblazer and 2025 Toyota RAV4 are perfect for NOLA’s narrow streets and summer downpours. But is one of these compact crossover SUVs better for your daily drive (and your budget)? Our buying guide takes a look.
Key Takeaways
- Enjoy big savings with the 2025 Trailblazer!
- In spite of its lighter starting price, the Trailblazer comes more handsomely equipped with comfort and convenience features.
- For the punchiest performance, check out the Toyota RAV4!
- The Trailblazer’s savings extend to the fuel pump, making it the best option for your budget.
Best Starting Price: 2025 Chevy Trailblazer
Most Handsomely Equipped: 2025 Chevy Trailblazer
The Trailblazer doesn’t just give you the lowest MSRP. Chevy’s small SUV comes standard with the more impressive list of features! For instance, every trim model features an ultra-modern infotainment setup, with an 11-inch central touchscreen and the wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. It even helps you navigate New Orleans’s narrowest streets, with standard lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking!
Inside the base RAV4, the infotainment system isn’t quite as impressive, with a smaller, 8-inch touchscreen. However, it does include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. Toyota’s small SUV also delivers streetwise safety aids, including forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist.
Sporty Performance: 2025 Toyota RAV4
Thanks to its extra horsepower, the Toyota RAV4 is the quickest to get up to speed on the causeway. You can also boost this SUV’s agility and all-weather safety with available all-wheel drive! All in all, the RAV4 is the best option for New Orleans drivers who want the peppiest compact crossover SUV.
2025 Toyota RAV4 Powertrain Specs
- 2.5L four-cylinder engine (203 hp, 184 lb-ft of torque)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive
When you get behind the wheel of a Trailblazer, you’ll enjoy a smooth, comfortable ride and city-friendly handling. It’s surprisingly easy to steer this small crossover through the narrow confines of our Crescent City grid. And while the Trailblazer doesn’t offer quite as much speed as its Toyota competitor, it provides plenty of power for confident cruising.
2025 Chevy Trailblazer Powertrain Specs
- Turbocharged 1.2L three-cylinder engine (137 hp, 162 lb-ft of torque)
- Optional turbo 1.3L three-cylinder engine (155 hp, 174 lb-ft)
- Nine-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive
Save at the Pump: 2025 Chevy Trailblazer
To save the most money on your Gulf Coast travels, choose the Trailblazer. With its optional 1.3-liter engine, Chevy’s small crossover earns up to 31 mpg combined (29 city/33 highway). For anyone who spends a lot of time on the road, these EPA ratings mean more money in your bank account!
Meanwhile, the RAV4 earns up to 30 mpg combined (27 city/35 highway). Although it’s not as thrifty as the competition, these ratings aren’t bad for such a peppy compact SUV! But for drivers who commute across town, the difference adds up, taking a toll on your monthly budget.
Your New Compact SUV
Which compact SUV fits your New Orleans lifestyle better? If you’re like us, you’re going to choose the 2025 Chevy Trailblazer every time. This small SUV gives you the most bang for your buck, helping you save big on a city-friendly drive. Experience everything the Trailblazer has to offer — visit us at Banner Chevrolet!