From the cobblestones to the causeway, which three-row SUV is up for your family’s New Orleans lifestyle — the 2025 Chevy Traverse or the 2025 Honda Pilot? Our buying guide takes a closer look at these midsize crossovers!
Key Takeaways
- These three-row SUVs are so competitively priced that you almost won’t notice a difference!
- The Traverse offers the most comfort and convenience for your money.
- Stay safe from Uptown to the Westbank with the help of Chevy’s driving aids and connectivity features.
- Merge onto I-10 with maximum confidence, compliments of the Traverse’s 328-horsepower engine!
MSRP: It’s (More or Less) a Tie!
When it comes to MSRP, the competition between the 2025 Chevy Traverse (from $40,700*) and Honda Pilot (from $40,200*) is a close one. If price is one of your first priorities, these three-row SUVs are both excellent options. Of course, as we’ll see, the Traverse comes standard some features that cost extra on the Pilot, giving it a bit of an edge.
*Price as of 4/15/25.
Coziest Cabin: 2025 Chevy Traverse
With three rows of roomy, supportive seating, the Traverse is perfect for social events like Saints games and Gulf Coast road trips. And its flexible cargo hold provides the space you need to pack your camping gear or festival costumes. But the Traverse also comes standard with the most impressive list of creature comforts — including a hands-free power liftgate!
When it comes to features, Honda’s three-row midsize crossover can match a lot of what the Traverse has to offer. For instance, both models come standard with tri-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. And while the base Pilot may not include all of the Traverse’s comfort features, you can find these items on higher trim models. The catch is that you have to pay more for the same level of comfort and convenience!
Cutting-Edge Technology: 2025 Chevy Traverse
The Traverse’s cutting-edge infotainment system helps you keep up with your many social engagements, keeping you connected as you make your way around town. Every trim model features a 17.7-inch central touchscreen, 11-inch digital gauge cluster, built-in navigation, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. In other words, all the data you need is within easy reach! Plus, the Traverse’s long list of driver safety aids help you take on busy streets from Uptown to the Westbank — including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and blind-spot warning!
While the Pilot’s infotainment system also comes standard on every trim model, it’s not as modern as one might hope. The base Sport features a 7-inch central touchscreen, and the mid-grade EX-L and up get a 9-inch version. And only the top-tier trims come with a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster and built-in navigation! However, Honda’s three-row SUV comes standard with an excellent list of driver safety aids. Every Pilot keeps a digital eye out for danger, with blind-spot warning, lane centering, and more.
Power and Performance: 2025 Chevy Traverse
When it comes to power and efficiency, the 2025 Chevy Traverse edges out the Pilot. Its turbocharged, 328-horsepower engine gives you more punch than the Pilot’s 285-horsepower V6. And in spite of its extra muscle, the Traverse earns the best EPA ratings, with up to 23 mpg combined (20 city/27 highway). Chevy’s SUV also delivers the most driver satisfaction. A wider wheelbase not only helps the Traverse deliver the smoothest ride, but it also enhances stability at high speeds — a difference you’ll really notice when you’re cruising the Causeway on a windy day!
2025 Chevy Traverse Powertrain Specs
- Turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder engine (328 horsepower, 326 lb-ft of torque)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
In spite of its two extra cylinders, the 2025 Honda Pilot isn’t as powerful as its Chevy counterpart. It’s not as thrifty as the competition, either, but its EPA ratings aren’t too far behind. With front-wheel drive, this three-row crossover earns 22 mpg combined (19 city/27 highway). And while the Traverse is easier to handle overall, the Pilot’s slightly smaller turning circle (37.8 feet to the Traverse’s 39 feet) may come in handy on narrow New Orleans streets!
2025 Honda Pilot Powertrain Specs
- 3.5L V6 (285 hp, 262 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
The Best Three-Row SUV in New Orleans
Which three-row SUV suits New Orleans families best? The way we see it, the 2025 Chevy Traverse is the smart choice, giving you all the space and feel of a luxury SUV without the premium price tag! Better still, Chevy’s three-row SUV leaves the competition in the dust with more power and cutting-edge infotainment. Ready to take your family transportation to the next level? Visit us at Banner Chevrolet of New Orleans!