2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, continued to be a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV market. It was praised for its stylish design and high-quality materials, which gave it the feel of a small luxury SUV. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the model boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). However, the CX-5 had its drawbacks, such as a small back seat, cramped cargo area, and a frustrating infotainment system. Mazda's decision to eventually replace the CX-5 with the CX-50 was part of a broader marketing strategy, similar to Infiniti's renaming of its G37 sedan and coupe. The hope was that Mazda would successfully transition its loyal CX-5 customers to the new CX-50.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered a fresh take with its four main trims: LS, LT, Z71, and RS. The Z71 was a new addition, designed for those interested in moderate off-roading. Chevrolet made it clear that the Z71 was not meant for extreme off-road adventures but could handle reasonably rugged terrain. The Traverse's pricing was competitive, with the LS starting at $38,995 and the RS topping out at $55,595. The Z71 model, which we tested, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. The interior was enhanced with "Torch Red" accents, and while synthetic leather seating was optional, the standard cloth seats were comfortable and breathable.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options. The base 2.5 S model came with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). It had an EPA fuel economy rating of 26 mpg in combined driving. The more powerful 2.5 Turbo variant featured a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, or 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. This engine also used the six-speed automatic and AWD, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined. The turbocharged engine provided a thrilling driving experience, with torque arriving at 2,000 rpm on regular gas and 2,500 rpm on premium. The CX-5's structural and suspension updates improved its ride quality, making it feel more like an entry-level luxury vehicle.

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. AWD was optional on all trims, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced dual-clutch system. The Traverse's acceleration and passing power were satisfactory for its size, and the exhaust had a pleasant growl during acceleration. The steering was adequate, though the Traverse's 204.5-inch length was noticeable. The ride quality was excellent, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. The brakes were progressive, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. The EPA estimates for fuel economy ranged from 18 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined for the FWD Limited to 17/25/20 for the AWD Limited.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 received updates to its front seats for improved comfort and support. All versions had a height-adjustable driver's seat, with power adjustments available on higher trims. The Signature trim included Nappa leather upholstery and other luxury features. However, the CX-5's interior had limitations, such as small storage areas, cramped rear seats, and limited cargo space. It offered 30.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded, which was less than many rivals.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse's base LS model offered seating for eight, while the LT, Z71, and RS trims featured second-row captain's chairs, reducing capacity to seven. The Smart Slide second-row seats were easy to use, and the power-folding third row was available on lower trims and standard on the RS. The Traverse provided 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and approximately 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The cabin had numerous storage nooks, including a hidden area under the center console and an underfloor storage bin in the cargo bay. Visibility was generally good, except for the third row, where the sporty design limited the view.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display with sophisticated graphics but was frustrating to use. It lacked a helpful voice recognition system, and the physical controls on the center console were awkward. The system required memorization and focus, making it distracting. Despite these issues, Mazda Connect offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. Upper trims included a 10-speaker Bose audio system and a surround-view camera system.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its 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. It ran on Google-based software, offering intuitive voice commands and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The wireless charging pad in the Z71 was effective, and Chevrolet retained physical controls for volume and HVAC functions. The Traverse also introduced Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with most i-Activsense driver assistance features standard. The 2.5 Turbo Signature trim added a surround-view camera, parking sensors, rear automatic emergency braking, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, it lacked a warning for driving without headlights at night, a common issue with the model.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of our test drive. However, it offered a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Traverse also featured a surround-view parking camera and other safety technologies.