2024 Acura MDX vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Acura MDX presented a striking exterior with its large shield grille, rakish headlights, and modern intake vents, creating a refined presence. Inside, the MDX was high-tech but cluttered, with a center console full of controls that were initially overwhelming and cumbersome to operate. The MDX was available in several trims, including the Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages, as well as the Type-S and Type-S Advance. Standard features included tri-zone automatic climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof. The Type-S Advance, which was driven for this review, added a 26-speaker ELS sound system and massaging front seats, offering a luxurious experience despite the busy interior.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was offered in four main trims: LS, LT, Z71, and RS, with the Z71 being a new addition aimed at moderate off-roading. During a test drive near Atlanta, the Z71 demonstrated its capability on rugged terrain, though it wasn't designed for extreme off-roading like a Jeep Wrangler. The Traverse's pricing was competitive, starting at $38,995 for the LS and reaching $55,595 for the RS. The Z71 model, priced at $47,795, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and an Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. The interior, with Jet Black and Torch Red accents, offered optional synthetic leather seating, though the standard cloth seats were comfortable and breathable.

The 2024 Acura MDX came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The Type-S variant featured a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine with 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The MDX Type-S Advance provided strong acceleration and a comfortable ride, with Brembo performance brakes and an adaptive air suspension. The Integrated Dynamics System offered various driving modes, including Sport+ and Lift mode, enhancing the driving experience. The MDX's towing capacity reached 5,000 pounds with AWD, while FWD models maxed out at 3,500 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. The AWD system, especially in the Z71, featured a dual-clutch arrangement for better grip in slippery conditions. The Traverse offered acceptable acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust growl. The steering was adequate for its size, and the ride was smooth, even with all-terrain tires. The brakes were progressive, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 highway for the FWD Limited model.

The 2024 Acura MDX featured three rows of seating, with the first two rows being comfortable and supportive, while the third row was smaller and best for children. Cargo space was 16.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Type-S Advance model included a second-row bench with a fold-down center console and plenty of cupholders. The center console offered ample storage, though the center stack of controls was cluttered and unintuitive.

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 and power-folding third row enhanced accessibility and cargo capacity, which reached 96 cubic feet with seats folded. The Autosense power liftgate was standard, and the cabin had numerous storage nooks, including a hidden area under the center console. Visibility was generally good, though the third row felt slightly enclosed. The Z71 model had a power-operated driver's seat, but the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

The 2024 Acura MDX's infotainment system was its weak point, with a 12.3-inch display controlled by a clumsy touchpad. Despite this, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, satellite radio, HD radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The center console cleverly integrated charging ports and a wireless charging pad, though the overall system was less intuitive than competitors like the Genesis GV80.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a new 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 supported voice commands, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Traverse retained physical controls for volume and HVAC functions, though the driving mode button was less prominent. The Super Cruise hands-free driving aid was available, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads.

The 2024 Acura MDX included a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Technology Package added parking sensors and reverse automatic emergency braking, while the Advance package included a 360-degree camera system. The 2022 MDX received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of the review, but it offered a wide range of standard driver aids. These included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and a surround-view parking camera. The Traverse's safety features provided peace of mind during the test drive.