2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport was characterized by its modernist and reductive design, which translated to a clean and simple aesthetic. This approach might not have appealed to those seeking a flashy luxury SUV, as Land Rover offered limited options for making the vehicle stand out, such as a Firenze Red paint color and diamond-turned, multi-spoke 23-inch wheels. The test vehicle, finished in Eiger Gray with silver 23-inch wheels and a Black Exterior Pack, exuded understated luxury. Inside, the Deep Garnet over Ebony theme, complemented by aluminum and shiny black trim, created a sophisticated atmosphere. The Range Rover Sport was available in SE P360, SE Dynamic P400, and Autobiography P440e specifications, with the SE Dynamic P400 test vehicle priced at $98,420, including destination charges. Notable design features included premium LED headlights, flush-mounted door handles, and surface LED technology taillights, contributing to its excellent aerodynamics. The interior boasted a luxurious, high-tech appearance with sustainable Ultrafabrics and Windsor leather upholstery.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered a more rugged and versatile design, particularly with the introduction of the Z71 trim, which catered to those interested in moderate off-roading. While not intended for extreme off-road adventures, the Z71 variant was engineered to handle reasonably rugged terrain. The Traverse's pricing was competitive, with the LS model starting at $38,995 and the top-of-the-line RS model priced at $55,595. The Z71 test vehicle, priced at $47,795, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. Inside, the Jet Black interior with "Torch Red" accents added a touch of flair. The Traverse's interior was practical, with optional synthetic leather seating and standard cloth seats providing comfort and breathability. The vehicle's design emphasized functionality, with features like Smart Slide second-row seats and a power-folding third row, enhancing accessibility and cargo capacity.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport aimed to balance refinement, comfort, and driver-focused engagement. It featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque in the SE Dynamic model. The SE P360 offered 355 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) drivetrain was available in the Autobiography P440e, delivering 434 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque with an estimated 51 miles of electric driving range. The Range Rover Sport's 395-hp inline-six provided ample power, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, and a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds. The SUV's fuel efficiency was commendable, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined, and it averaged 22.3 mpg during testing. The Range Rover Sport's new architecture increased torsional stiffness by 35%, and its adaptive damping air suspension enhanced ride comfort and handling. Off-road capabilities were impressive, with features like Terrain Response, All Terrain Progress Control, and a 35.4-inch wading depth.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offered 18 more horsepower and 50 more lb-ft of torque than the V6. All-wheel drive was optional on every trim, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced dual-clutch system for improved traction. The Traverse's acceleration and passing power were satisfactory for its size, and the exhaust emitted a pleasant growl during acceleration. The steering was adequate for most driving situations, though the vehicle's length was noticeable. The ride quality was excellent, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance. The brakes were progressive, and the fuel-saving stop-and-start feature operated seamlessly. EPA estimates for fuel economy ranged from 18 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined for the Traverse Limited with FWD to 17/25/20 for the Limited with AWD.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport retained its Command Driving Position, offering a tall and airy feel with a low dashboard, upright windshield, and thin roof pillars. The air suspension could kneel for easier entry and exit, and the front seats were comfortable with adjustable armrests. The test vehicle featured Windsor leather upholstery, 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, and optional massage functionality. The rear seat, while improved, remained tight for taller passengers, and narrow door openings posed challenges. The back seat provided excellent support but had a reclined angle. Storage space was decent, with a deep bin under the center armrest and a second bin under the sliding cupholder tray. The cargo area offered 31.9 cubic feet of space, expandable to 53 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the base LS model, while the LT, Z71, and RS trims featured seven seats with standard captain's chairs. The Smart Slide second-row seats facilitated access to the third row, which accommodated average-size adults. The power-folding third row and Autosense power liftgate enhanced cargo capacity and convenience. Cargo volume measured 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to approximately 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The cabin featured numerous storage nooks, including a hidden storage area under the center console and an underfloor storage bin in the cargo bay. Visibility was generally good, though the third row had limited views. The Z71 test vehicle had a power-operated driver's seat, while the front passenger seat had manual controls.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport featured a 13.7-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with haptic feedback. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an Online Pack with connected services. However, the Pivi Pro infotainment system was often confusing and frustrating to use, with difficulties in accessing features and understanding its functions. The native digital assistant struggled with voice commands, failing to provide accurate directions. The Range Rover Sport offered impressive Meridian audio systems and a next-generation Active Noise Cancellation system. A wireless smartphone charging pad was included but challenging to access.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, replacing the previous 8-inch screen. The system was responsive and easy to navigate, complemented by an 11-inch digital instrument display. The Google-based software offered intuitive voice commands, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The wireless charging pad securely held smartphones during cornering. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained, though the driving mode button was less accessible. The Traverse introduced Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, expanding its functionality to single-lane roadways. Super Cruise performed well, though it automatically disengaged at intersections.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport came equipped with advanced driving assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Additional features included automatic high-beam headlights, a driver monitoring system, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system with ClearSight Ground View. Remote Park Assist was available, allowing the SUV to park itself via a smartphone app. The adaptive cruise control and steering assist were less satisfactory, with slow responses and challenges on freeway curves.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of testing. However, it offered a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including automatic emergency braking with cyclist and pedestrian detection, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, side-exit assist, rear pedestrian alert, and a surround-view parking camera. These systems provided peace of mind during the test drive.