2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Kia Sorento

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available in four trims: LS, LT, Z71, and RS, with the Z71 being a new addition aimed at those interested in moderate off-roading. During test drives near Atlanta, Chevrolet emphasized that the Z71 was not designed for extreme off-road conditions like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco but could handle reasonably rugged terrain. The Traverse's pricing was competitive, starting at $38,995 for the LS and reaching $55,595 for the RS, which included nearly every available feature. 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" details. While synthetic leather seating was optional, the standard cloth seats were comfortable and breathable.

The 2024 Kia Sorento received its first major visual update since 2021, aligning its design more closely with Kia's other SUVs like the Telluride and EV9. The Sorento featured a new front end with a large grille, vertically-stacked LED headlights, and wing-like daytime running lights, giving it a more imposing look. The rear updates were subtle, with new bumpers and LED taillights on higher trims. The Sorento's trims remained the same, but the rugged X-Line package was now available only on EX and higher models, with the new X-Pro trim offering smaller wheels and all-terrain tires. Inside, the Sorento boasted a new dashboard with a combined gauge cluster and infotainment display, and higher trims featured twin 12.3-inch displays. The cabin materials were upgraded, with faux open-pore wood grain and quality stitching on the leather-wrapped steering wheel and seats, giving the Sorento a more upscale feel.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine 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 for better grip in slippery conditions. The Traverse provided acceptable acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust growl during acceleration. The steering was adequate for general driving, though the vehicle's 204.5-inch 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 to 26 mpg highway for the FWD Limited trim.

The 2024 Kia Sorento retained its base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, which struggled with the Sorento's weight. The EX and higher models featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with a dual-clutch eight-speed automatic transmission. These models offered better performance, with zero-to-60 times in the mid-seven-second range. The Sorento was front-wheel drive by default, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The X-Line and X-Pro trims offered more ground clearance and off-road capability. The Sorento handled confidently, with well-weighted steering and effective brakes. The X-Pro trim provided a smoother ride with its all-terrain tires and improved engine cooling, allowing for a 4,500-pound towing capacity. Fuel economy for non-turbo models was 25-26 mpg combined, while turbo models achieved 23 mpg combined.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the base LS model, with second-row captain's chairs available in the LT trim. The Z71 and RS trims were seven-seaters with standard captain's chairs, providing easier access to the third row, which could accommodate 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. The Traverse had 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The cabin featured numerous storage nooks, including a hidden storage area under the center console. Visibility was generally good, though the third row had limited views due to the rear fender design. The Z71 model had a power-operated driver's seat, but the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

The 2024 Kia Sorento's cabin was modern and comfortable in the first two rows, though the third row was tight with only 29.6 inches of legroom. The Sorento offered more legroom in the front and second rows than many two-row SUVs, with 41.4 inches in the front and 41.7 inches in the second row. The third row was suitable for occasional use by children. The Sorento's new dashboard was ergonomic, with controls within easy reach and ample small-item storage. Cargo space was limited to 12.6 cubic feet with the third row in use, but expanded to 38.5 to 45 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 72.1 cubic feet with all seats down. Higher trims featured a power liftgate for added convenience.

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 provided customizable information, including navigation directions. The infotainment 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 center console. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained, though the driving mode button was less prominently placed. The Traverse also offered Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, which could be used on pre-mapped single-lane roadways.

The 2024 Kia Sorento adopted a single-pane, twin-screen setup for its gauge and infotainment displays, with all models featuring a 12.3-inch screen. The central infotainment touchscreen ran on new "Connected Car Navigation Cockpit" software, prioritizing popular features on the home screen. Navigation was standard on all but the base LX model. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were now standard, and the system supported over-the-air updates. USB-C outlets were available in all three rows, and higher trims featured a Bose 12-speaker audio system. SX and SX-Prestige models offered Digital Key 2.0, allowing certain smartphones to lock, unlock, and drive the vehicle.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of testing, but it came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver aids. Standard features included automatic emergency braking with cyclist and pedestrian detection, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, side-exit assist, and a surround-view parking camera.

The 2024 Kia Sorento featured the Drivewise suite of active safety features, with more standard and optional systems than before. Standard features included adaptive cruise control with stop and go, forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, intersection assistance, lane-following and lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert with emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included navigation-based adaptive cruise control, Highway Driving Assist, and Highway Driving Assist 2 with automated lane changes. The Sorento had not yet been fully evaluated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but previous models received four-star overall ratings from the NHTSA.