2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX presented a blend of luxury and subtlety, especially in its Type S Advance trim. This model, with its Apex Blue Pearl paint and Orchid interior, aimed to set high expectations for quality and driving dynamism. However, it occasionally fell short of these aspirations. The MDX Type S was the first Acura SUV to sport the Type S badge, featuring chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels that contributed to its understated yet appealing appearance. Inside, the MDX offered perforated Milano leather and a Sport Appearance package, though some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made controls less intuitive.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse introduced a fresh look with its Z71 trim, designed for moderate off-roading. The Traverse's exterior was marked by its Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint and 18-inch alloy wheels, while the interior featured Jet Black with Torch Red accents. The Z71 trim was not intended for extreme off-road adventures but was capable of handling rugged terrain. The Traverse's pricing was competitive, ranging from $38,995 for the base LS to $55,595 for the RS model, with the Z71 starting at $47,795. The interior was comfortable, with standard cloth seats and optional synthetic leather, providing a balance of style and practicality.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which could direct up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel. Despite these enhancements, the MDX Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive driving experience. The transmission was often indecisive, and the ride lacked compliance, with squealing tires and poor brake pedal modulation. Fuel economy was also a concern, with the MDX Type S averaging 16.9 mpg, below its EPA rating of 19 mpg combined.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse, on the other hand, replaced its previous V6 engine with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder, delivering 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided more power and torque than the discontinued V6. The Traverse's AWD system, especially in the Z71 trim, featured a dual-clutch arrangement for better grip in slippery conditions. The Traverse offered acceptable acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust note. The ride was smooth, even with all-terrain tires, and the brakes were progressive. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway, depending on the trim and drivetrain.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows of seating, with the option for two or three second-row seats. The Type S Advance trim included 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the seats were firm and didn't hold occupants in place as well as expected. The MDX's third row was best suited for children, and storage space within the cabin was limited due to design choices. Cargo space was decent, with 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 71.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse provided seating for eight in the base LS model, while the LT, Z71, and RS trims offered seven seats with captain's chairs. The Smart Slide second-row seats made accessing the third row easier, and the power-folding third row increased cargo capacity. The Traverse offered 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and up to 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. Storage options were plentiful, with hidden compartments and a convenient underfloor storage bin.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display, operated via a True Touchpad Interface (TTI). While the TTI aimed to improve user interaction, it fell short due to its non-touchscreen design and limited storage space. The MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, along with a premium ELS Studio 3D audio system. However, the native voice recognition system was frustrating to use.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch digital instrument display. The system ran on Google-based software, offering intuitive voice commands and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Traverse also featured a wireless charging pad and physical controls for volume and HVAC functions. The Super Cruise hands-free driving aid was available for the first time, enhancing the Traverse's technology offerings.

The 2023 Acura MDX came equipped with Acura Watch, a suite of driving assistance and collision avoidance systems. These included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it earned four stars for frontal-impact protection.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of the review. However, it offered a comprehensive range of standard driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and a surround-view parking camera. These features provided peace of mind during the test drive.