2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Volvo XC90 marked a significant departure from the brand's past design ethos, which was often likened to utilitarian appliances. This model showcased a purposeful yet understated aesthetic, with a stout front end and a bold grille that avoided being ostentatious. The signature "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a modern touch, distinguishing it from the boxy Volvos of the past. The XC90's rectilinear shape was still present, but it had evolved into a more sophisticated form. The test vehicle, an AWD Ultimate trim, featured 21-inch wheels and a Platinum Gray paint with subtle brown undertones, adding depth to its appearance. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with its two-tone leather steering wheel, metal speaker covers, crystal shift knob, and luxurious Nappa leather seats. The minimalist interior design, complemented by wood deco inlays, created a serene atmosphere, though it lacked ample storage space.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered a more rugged and versatile look, especially with the introduction of the Z71 trim, designed for moderate off-roading. The Traverse's pricing was competitive, with the LS model starting at $38,995 and the top-tier RS model at $55,595. The Z71 model, priced at $47,795, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. Inside, the Jet Black interior was accented with "Torch Red" highlights, and the standard cloth seats provided comfort and breathability. The Traverse's design focused on practicality, with features like Smart Slide second-row seats and a power-folding third row, enhancing accessibility and cargo capacity. The Traverse's interior was spacious, with ample storage options, including a hidden storage area under the center console and an underfloor storage bin in the cargo bay.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced new B5 and B6 engines, replacing the older T5 and T6 powertrains. These new engines incorporated mild-hybrid technology, offering improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation. The B5 engine, with a turbocharger and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, produced 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The B6 powertrain, equipped with both a supercharger and a turbo, delivered 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. While the mild-hybrid system didn't allow for electric-only driving, it enhanced the XC90's fuel-saving auto stop-start technology. The XC90 provided a comfortable driving experience, with minimal road and wind noise, thanks to its insulation. Its eight-speed automatic transmission was responsive, and the brakes inspired confidence. The XC90's driving dynamics were straightforward, with limited customizable options, but it handled well in various conditions, including a New Hampshire snowstorm.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse, on the other hand, 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 more power and torque than its predecessor. The Traverse's AWD system, especially in the Z71 trim, featured a dual-clutch arrangement for improved traction. The Traverse provided satisfactory acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust note during acceleration. Its steering was adequate for most driving scenarios, though its size was noticeable. The ride quality was commendable, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance. The brakes were progressive, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway, depending on the trim and drivetrain.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 offered a serene and elegant interior, but its Scandinavian minimalism led to some space and storage limitations. The front seats were comfortable, but there was a lack of dedicated storage for smaller items, such as cell phones. The second row was reasonably spacious, but accessing the third row was challenging with the standard bench seat. The XC90 provided 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row in place, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. However, its maximum cargo capacity of 65.5 cubic feet fell short compared to competitors like the Audi Q7 and Acura MDX. Despite its smaller size, the XC90 drove like a more compact vehicle, offering a pleasant driving experience.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse excelled in interior space and functionality. The base LS model offered seating for eight, while higher trims featured second-row captain's chairs for easier access to the third row. The Smart Slide second-row seats were user-friendly, and the power-folding third row was a convenient feature. The Traverse provided 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to approximately 96 cubic feet with the seats folded, making it a class leader in cargo capacity. The cabin featured numerous storage options, including a hidden storage area under the center console and an underfloor storage bin in the cargo bay. The Z71 test vehicle had a power-operated driver's seat, though the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display running on Google OS, making it the first vehicle to offer this technology as standard. The system integrated Google Maps, Spotify, NPR, and Google Assistant, providing a seamless user experience. Natural-language recognition was a highlight, allowing for intuitive voice commands. However, the reliance on the touchscreen for many functions could be frustrating, as physical buttons were limited. The XC90's minimalist design, while visually appealing, required some adjustment for users accustomed to more traditional controls.

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. The Google-based software offered intuitive voice commands, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The wireless charging pad in the center console securely held smartphones during driving. Chevrolet retained physical controls for volume and HVAC functions, though the driving mode button was less prominently placed. The Traverse also introduced Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, expanding its functionality to single-lane roadways.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. It came equipped with advanced driver safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Pilot Assist, which maintained distance from the car ahead. These safety features were standard on the XC90, reinforcing its reputation as a safe vehicle.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet undergone crash tests by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of testing. However, it offered a comprehensive suite of driver aids as standard, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and a surround-view parking camera. While these systems were not tested during the review, their presence provided peace of mind.