2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV initially appeared similar to its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart, sharing features like rounded wheel wells and a flat beltline. However, upon closer inspection, the Equinox EV distinguished itself with more decisive lines, a thicker body-colored C-pillar, and a sleeker grille. The front fascia was more body-colored, and the rear design was more defined, featuring hexagonal shapes and a light bar echoing the front. Standard 19-inch aluminum wheels were available on the 1LT and 2LT trims, while the higher trims boasted 21-inch versions. The Equinox EV offered vibrant color options like "Red Hot" and "Riptide Blue Metallic," which added a youthful and exuberant touch. Two-tone paint jobs were available, with options for a white or black roof depending on the trim. The interior color choices expanded with higher trims, offering combinations like black with blue accents or Sky Cool Gray, and sportier options like Adrenaline Red.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available 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, it was clear that the Z71 was not designed for extreme off-roading but could handle reasonably rugged terrain. The Traverse's pricing was competitive, starting at $38,995 for the LS model and reaching $55,595 for the RS model. The Z71 model, priced at $47,795, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. The interior of the Z71 was adorned with "Torch Red" accents, and while synthetic leather seating was optional, the standard cloth seats were comfortable and breathable.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a hands-free start, which, while not universally favored, was becoming more common in EVs. The vehicle offered one-pedal driving, adjustable through a regenerative braking setting or drive modes like Tour, Sport, Snow/Ice, and My Mode. The Equinox EV provided a comfortable ride on 19-inch wheels, with the single-motor FWD variant delivering 213 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. The AWD version offered a dual-motor powertrain with 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque, and a towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds. The EPA estimated a range of 319 miles for FWD models and 285 for AWD, supported by an 85-kWh battery. The Equinox EV was capable of DC fast charging at up to 150 kW, regaining about 77 miles of range in 10 minutes, and adding up to 34 miles per hour on a Level 2 charger.

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. AWD was optional on all trims, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced system. The Traverse offered acceptable acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust growl during acceleration. The steering was adequate for general driving, though the vehicle's 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. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 18 mpg city, 26 highway, 21 combined for the FWD Limited, to 17/25/20 for the AWD Limited.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV's base model was not yet available, meaning features like heated front seats, steering wheel, and outside mirrors were standard from the 2LT trim. The 2LT also included an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and an optional panoramic moonroof. The 3LT added power adjustments for the passenger seat, front-seat ventilation, and heated rear seats. The Equinox EV offered 39.15 inches of front headroom and 38.49 inches in the second row, with 41.65 inches of front legroom. Cargo space was 26.4 cubic feet with all seats in place, expanding to 57.2 cubic feet with the second row folded. Roof rails were standard on all but the base trim.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse's base LS model offered seating for eight, while the LT, Z71, and RS featured second-row captain's chairs, reducing capacity to seven. The third row was accessible and suitable for average-size adults. The Smart Slide second-row seats were easy to use, and a power-folding third row was available on lower trims and standard on the RS. Cargo volume was 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to approximately 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The Traverse featured numerous storage options, including a hidden storage 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 due to the rear fender design.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV's cockpit was dominated by technology, with a driver-oriented design. The base 1LT trim featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch driver-information screen. Google Built-In was standard, providing Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store, but lacking standalone Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An eight-year OnStar Remote Access Plan subscription was included, essential for the MyChevrolet app, which offered navigation, route planning, and battery pre-conditioning.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a new 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, standard on all models, with rapid response times and simple menus. An 11-inch digital instrument display was configurable and useful for navigation. The infotainment system ran on Google-based software, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless charging pad was effective and secure. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained, though the driving mode button was less prominent. Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, was available for the first time on the Traverse, with expanded functionality for single-lane roadways.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, forward collision alert, and more. Additional features included rear park assist, reverse automatic braking, blind-zone steering assist, and adaptive cruise control. Teen Driver Technology was also standard, allowing parents to set speed alerts and monitor driving behavior. Super Cruise was available from the 2LT trim, along with enhanced automatic parking assist on higher trims.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive suite of driver aids as standard. These included automatic emergency braking with cyclist and pedestrian detection, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and more. The Traverse also featured a surround-view parking camera and rear pedestrian alert.