2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover that was easy to miss even for trained eyes. Up close, the new Mercedes star logos on the front grille were a clever touch, and changes to the headlights and taillights were more noticeable when compared side-by-side with the previous model. Standard LED headlights and optional multi-beam LED headlights added to its appeal. The GLE 450e we tested, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and riding on 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, looked particularly handsome. The interior of our GLE 450e tester exuded class and luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available in four main trims: LS, LT, Z71, and RS, with the Z71 being the new addition aimed at moderate off-roading. During our test drive near Atlanta, the Z71 variant proved capable on rugged terrain but wasn't designed for extreme off-roading like a Jeep Wrangler. Pricing for the Traverse started at $38,995 for the LS and went up to $55,595 for the RS. Our Z71 tester, priced at $47,795, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. The Jet Black interior with "Torch Red" accents added a sporty touch, and the standard cloth seats were comfortable and breathable.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, starting at approximately $63,805. The lineup included the GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 450e, and GLE 580, with two AMG models, the AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S, topping the range. Engines ranged from turbocharged four- and six-cylinders to a twin-turbo V8 producing 603 horsepower in the AMG GLE 63 S. Our GLE 450e tester combined a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering 381 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission sent power to all four wheels, and the GLE 450e accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The transition from gas to electric power was seamless, and the suspension absorbed bumps effortlessly, making for a smooth and quiet ride.

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. All-wheel drive was optional on every trim, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced dual-clutch system. On highways and twisty roads, the Traverse's acceleration and passing power were more than adequate. The steering felt fine in open spaces, though the Traverse's 204.5-inch length was noticeable in tight spots. 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. EPA estimates ranged from 18 mpg city, 26 highway, 21 combined for the FWD Limited to 17/25/20 for the AWD Limited.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered ample space for adults in the first and second rows, with a light and airy cabin feel. The GLE 450e provided 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, comparable to the BMW X5 but less than the Cadillac XT6 and Volvo XC90. The optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 and was suitable only for young children. Standard features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a power sunroof, and a power liftgate. Our tester also had options like a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse's base LS model came with seating for eight, while the LT, Z71, and RS trims offered seven seats with second-row captain's chairs. The third row was suitable for average-size adults, and the Smart Slide second-row seats made access easy. Cargo volume was 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The Traverse featured many storage nooks, including a hidden storage area under the center console and an underfloor storage bin in the cargo bay. Outward visibility was mostly positive, though the third row had limited views. Our Z71 tester had a power-operated driver's seat but a manually adjustable front passenger seat.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and main infotainment screen. The system was easy to operate but had a learning curve. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be overly sensitive.

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 and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The wireless charging pad in the center console was effective and secure. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were appreciated, though the driving mode button was less prominent. The Traverse also offered Super Cruise hands-free driving aid, which worked well on pre-mapped single-lane roadways.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, pedestrian detection, hands-free park assist, rain-sensing wipers, automatic high-beam headlights, and a driver attention monitor. The optional Driver Assistance package added active blind-spot assist, active lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and evasive steering assist. These features were unobtrusive and effective during everyday driving.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet undergone crash tests by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of our test drive. However, it came with a wide range of standard driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, 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 features provided peace of mind during our drive.