2023 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder, redesigned in 2022, maintained its modern aesthetic with minimal changes. Its futuristic headlights and angular C-pillar combined traditional elements with forward-thinking design, ensuring its relevance for years. Inside, the cabin featured clean lines and a sensible layout, making it both visually appealing and practical. The Pathfinder offered various trims, from the basic S with 18-inch alloy wheels and an 8-inch touchscreen, to the rugged Rock Creek with off-road suspension and a water-repellent interior. The top-tier Platinum trim boasted upgraded leather upholstery, a digital instrument panel, and a power tilt-telescoping steering wheel.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse introduced the Z71 trim for moderate off-roading, joining the LS, LT, and RS trims. The Z71, tested extensively, was not a hardcore off-roader but handled rugged terrain well. Pricing was competitive, starting at $38,995 for the LS and reaching $55,595 for the RS. The Z71, priced at $47,795, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and an Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. Inside, the Jet Black interior with "Torch Red" accents was complemented by optional synthetic leather seating. The Traverse's design and features aimed to balance comfort and capability.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. The Rock Creek variant offered a slight power boost to 295 hp and 270 lb-ft. Power was delivered through a 9-speed automatic transmission to either front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive. The Rock Creek's off-road capabilities were enhanced by a taller suspension and off-road shocks, though the ride was rougher on paved roads. The Pathfinder's engine provided ample power for city and highway driving, with a smooth and quiet operation. The vehicle featured a rotary drive mode dial with various settings, including an All-Terrain mode in the Rock Creek. Towing capacity was 3,500 pounds for most models, with the Rock Creek capable of towing up to 6,000 pounds.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offered more power and torque than its predecessor. All-wheel drive was optional across trims, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced system. The Traverse provided satisfactory acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust note during acceleration. The steering was adequate, though the vehicle's length was noticeable. The ride quality was excellent, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway for the FWD Limited, with slightly lower figures for the AWD version.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder offered up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded. With the second row in use, cargo space was 45 cubic feet, and 16.6 cubic feet with all seats upright. The first two rows provided ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for short trips. Optional second-row captain’s chairs facilitated access to the third row. The Pathfinder featured 12 cupholders and four bottle holders, along with numerous storage compartments. The Rock Creek's roof racks were practical, though snow removal could be challenging.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse's base LS model seated eight, while the LT, Z71, and RS trims offered seven seats with standard captain’s chairs. The Smart Slide second-row seats were easy to use, and a power-folding third row was available. 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 numerous storage nooks, including a hidden 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's driver’s seat was power-operated, but the front passenger seat had manual controls.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 9-inch version on higher trims. The system was user-friendly, though some found the graphics dated. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and voice recognition. The SV trim added a Wi-Fi hotspot, while the SL trim offered wireless Apple CarPlay and device charging. The Platinum trim included additional USB ports. While not cutting-edge, the Pathfinder's tech kept devices charged and connected.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, standard across all models, with rapid response times and simple menus. An 11-inch digital instrument display provided customizable information. The system ran on Google-based software, offering intuitive voice commands and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless charging pad was included in the Z71. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained, though the driving mode button was less prominent. The Traverse introduced Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder included standard driver assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, collision warning, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. The SV trim added ProPilot Assist with lane centering and adaptive cruise control. The SL trim offered front parking sensors, a 360-degree monitor, and traffic-sign recognition. The Platinum trim included rain-sensing wipers and a head-up display. Off-Road mode activated front- and side-view cameras for obstacle monitoring.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS. However, it offered a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. A surround-view parking camera and rear pedestrian alert were also standard. While these systems were not tested during the drive, their presence provided peace of mind.