2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available in four trims: LS, LT, Z71, and RS. The Z71 was a new addition, designed for those interested in moderate off-roading. During test drives near Atlanta, Chevrolet emphasized that the Z71 was not intended for extreme off-road adventures like those tackled by a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco. Instead, it was built to handle reasonably rugged terrain. The Traverse's pricing was competitive, with the LS starting at $38,995 and the RS reaching $55,595. The Z71 model, priced at $47,795, featured 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint, with a Jet Black interior accented by "Torch Red" highlights. While synthetic leather seating was optional, the standard cloth seats were comfortable and breathable.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban, a long-standing name in the automotive world, was known for its massive size, measuring 18 feet 10 inches in length and over six feet in height. It was available in six trims: LS, LT, RST, Z71, Premier, and High Country. The Suburban's size made it less suitable for urban environments but ideal for those needing ample cargo and passenger space. The LS trim came with 18-inch alloy wheels, while the High Country rode on 22-inch alloys. Despite its size, the Suburban's interior felt somewhat pedestrian, even in the top-spec High Country trim. The vehicle offered leather upholstery on all but the base trim, with the Premier and High Country featuring luxurious brown leather options. The Suburban's seats were supportive, though not as comfortable for long trips.

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. This new engine offered 18 more horsepower and 50 more lb-ft of torque than the discontinued V6. All-wheel drive was optional on every trim, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced system. The Traverse's acceleration and passing power were satisfactory, and its steering was adequate for its size. The ride quality was commendable, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. The brakes were progressive, and the fuel-saving stop-and-start feature was seamless. EPA estimates for fuel economy ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban offered three engine options: a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower, a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel six-cylinder with 277 horsepower. The 5.3-liter V8 was standard on most trims, while the 6.2-liter V8 was available on higher trims. The diesel engine provided better fuel economy and was less expensive on the High Country trim. The Suburban's 10-speed automatic transmission was well-tuned, and the vehicle's size was manageable. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with four-wheel drive available on most trims. The Suburban's steering and brakes were effective, and the air suspension handled rough roads well, though some body roll was expected due to its size.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the base LS model, while the LT, Z71, and RS trims featured second-row captain's chairs, reducing capacity to seven. 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 behind the third row was 22.9 cubic feet, expanding to 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The Traverse had numerous storage compartments, 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 felt slightly enclosed.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo space, with 41.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 93.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 144.7 cubic feet. This made it a top choice for those needing extensive carrying capacity. The Suburban's 28-gallon fuel tank allowed for long highway drives, especially with the diesel engine's 26-mpg highway rating. The vehicle was ideal for families needing space for road trips and towing.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, standard on all models, with rapid response times and simple menus. An 11-inch digital instrument display provided essential information, and the system ran on Google-based software with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Traverse included a wireless charging pad and physical controls for volume and HVAC functions. Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, was available for the first time, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban's infotainment system included a 10.2-inch touchscreen on most trims, with Google Built-in for accessing apps like Google Maps and Google Assistant. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were standard, and a rear-seat entertainment system was available. The 10-speaker Bose audio system was decent but lacked the richness of higher-speaker-count systems.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it came with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and more. These features provided peace of mind during the test drive.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban received a four-star overall crash safety rating from NHTSA, with four stars in frontal crash tests, five in side-crash tests, and three in rollover tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. Super Cruise was available on higher trims, offering semi-autonomous driving capabilities.