2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator continued to carry the torch for luxury SUVs, maintaining its established design and features without significant updates. Despite the anticipation of an electric version, the current model remained largely unchanged since its last refresh in 2022. The Navigator's exterior was marked by its triple-black Reserve model, which featured a Monochromatic Package with black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim. Inside, the cabin exuded luxury with its all-black interior, real wood trim, and chrome accents, although some switchgear failed to convey the high-end feel. The Navigator's interior was spacious and comfortable, with the Reserve I package adding ambient lighting for a touch of character.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse introduced a fresh look with the addition of the Z71 trim, designed for moderate off-roading. The Traverse's exterior was highlighted by its Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint and gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the Jet Black interior was accented with "Torch Red" details, providing a sporty feel. The Traverse offered a range of seating configurations, with the Z71 and RS trims featuring standard captain's chairs for easier access to the third row. The Traverse's interior was practical, with ample storage options and a power-folding third row for added convenience. The Autosense power liftgate was a standout feature, making it easy to access the cargo area even with hands full.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a 4WD drivetrain, the Navigator offered five driving modes, including Conserve, Normal, Excite, Slippery, and Deep Conditions. Despite its adaptive damping suspension, the Navigator's ride quality was inconsistent, with a tendency to float over dips and wallow over bumps. The Excite mode improved handling but at the cost of fuel efficiency, with the SUV averaging 15.6 mpg on a Southern California testing loop. The Navigator's nearly three-ton curb weight challenged the brakes, especially on mountain roads, and its size proved cumbersome in urban settings.

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. The Traverse's AWD system, particularly in the Z71 trim, featured a dual-clutch arrangement for improved traction. On highways and country roads, the Traverse offered satisfactory acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust note. The steering was adequate for most driving situations, though the Traverse's length was noticeable in tight spaces. The ride quality was commendable, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. The brakes were progressive, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. EPA estimates for fuel economy ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway, depending on the drivetrain.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering spacious seating across all three rows and a generous cargo area. The power-deploying running boards facilitated easy entry and exit, while the 30-way Perfect Position front seats provided comfort with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the multitude of adjustments proved challenging to perfect. The Navigator's storage options were plentiful, with a large tray under the center console and smaller compartments for third-row passengers. The extended-length Navigator L model offered significantly more cargo space, making it ideal for carrying both passengers and luggage.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse provided versatile seating configurations, with the base LS model accommodating eight passengers and higher trims offering captain's chairs for seven. The Smart Slide second-row seats were user-friendly, and the power-folding third row added convenience. The Autosense power liftgate was a practical feature, allowing easy access to the cargo area. The Traverse offered 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. Storage solutions included a hidden area under the center console and an underfloor bin in the cargo bay. Visibility was generally good, though the third row felt somewhat enclosed due to the rear fender design.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by a widescreen head-up display and dual-screen Lincoln Play infotainment system. The Sync 4 system offered wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, and a navigation system with voice recognition. The wireless smartphone charger, however, overheated devices. The digital assistant performed well, and the 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System delivered impressive sound quality. The Lincoln Way app and Phone As A Key technology allowed for digital key access, though the rear-seat entertainment system was underutilized by passengers.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, replacing the previous 8-inch display. The system was responsive and easy to navigate, with an 11-inch digital instrument display providing essential information. The Google-based software supported intuitive voice commands and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The wireless charging pad was effective, and physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were appreciated. The Traverse introduced Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, expanding its functionality to single-lane roadways. However, the placement of headlight controls within the infotainment system was less convenient.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator came equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0 and Co-Pilot360 2.0 Drive packages, offering a range of advanced driving assistance systems. Notable features included Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and BlueCruise, a hands-free driving system for designated highways. However, BlueCruise struggled with certain driving conditions and required frequent driver intervention. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA, though a full crashworthiness assessment was unavailable.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered a comprehensive suite of driver aids as standard, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features included traffic-sign recognition, side-exit assist, and a surround-view parking camera. While crash test results from the NHTSA and IIHS were pending, the Traverse's safety features provided peace of mind during the test drive.