2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

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 adventures like those tackled by the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco. Instead, it was built to handle moderately rugged terrain. The Traverse's pricing was competitive, starting at $38,995 for the LS model and reaching $55,595 for the RS model, which came with 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" highlights. The standard cloth seats were comfortable, though synthetic leather was an option for an additional cost.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner was a throwback to an earlier era, having last been redesigned in 2010. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a stable and rugged appearance, suitable for off-road adventures. The TRD Pro model featured underbody skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a tubular roof rack, enhancing its off-road capabilities. However, the interior showed its age with outdated styling and technology, including an analog instrument panel and a small eight-inch infotainment touchscreen. The interior materials were durable but not luxurious, with hard plastics and vinyl-like upholstery. Despite its age, the 4Runner's design was functional, with excellent outward visibility and practical features for off-road enthusiasts.

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 V6. All-wheel drive was optional on every trim, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced dual-clutch system for improved traction. The Traverse provided acceptable acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust note during acceleration. The steering was adequate for most driving situations, 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 to 26 mpg highway for the front-wheel-drive Limited model.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. While the powertrain was adequate for off-roading, it felt sluggish on highways, requiring heavy acceleration for merging. The TRD Pro model came with standard four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case. The 4Runner's soft suspension was beneficial for off-road articulation but resulted in noticeable body roll and nosedive during on-road driving. The engine was loud, and the sportier exhaust on the TRD Pro model added to the noise. Handling was compromised by the suspension, with residual bounces and floatiness over uneven surfaces. The 4Runner's ride was comfortable over larger road imperfections, but passengers prone to motion sickness might need precautions on winding roads.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the base LS model, while the LT, Z71, and RS trims featured seven seats with second-row captain's chairs. The third-row seats were accessible and suitable for average-sized 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 provided 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 compartments, including a hidden storage area under the center console. Outward visibility was generally good, though the third row had limited views. The Z71 model had a power-operated driver's seat, but the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior design was dated but functional, with large climate-control dials and driveline levers that were easy to use. The front seats offered ample space, though the steering wheel's limited telescoping range could be an issue for taller drivers. The second row provided generous legroom, but headroom was limited due to the elevated bench height. A third row was available on select trims. The 4Runner had various storage options, including dashboard pockets, cupholders, and door pockets. Cargo space was 47.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 89.7 cubic feet with the rear seats stowed. The 4Runner featured a sliding glass rear window and a hitch receiver with a 5,000-pound towing capacity. However, it lacked remote seat releases and a powered liftgate.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a large 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, replacing the previous eight-inch screen. The system was responsive and easy to navigate, with an 11-inch digital instrument display providing essential information. The infotainment unit ran on Google-based software, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless charging pad was included in the Z71 model. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained, though the driving mode button was less accessible. The Traverse also offered Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, which could be used on pre-mapped single-lane roads.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the eight-inch touchscreen was challenging to use while driving. The TRD Pro model featured a 15-speaker JBL audio system, but road noise often obscured the sound quality. Additional terrain controls were located in the headliner console, with pictograms instead of descriptions. The 4Runner included Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select systems for off-roading, as well as differential controls for traction.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of the review. However, it came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. A surround-view parking camera and other safety features were also standard.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with NHTSA awarding it four out of five stars for overall and frontal crash protection, and five stars for side impacts. However, it received three stars in rollover evaluations. IIHS ratings were similarly mixed, with "Good" scores for moderate frontal overlap and side protection tests, but "Marginal" and "Poor" results in the small overlap frontal test. The 4Runner included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and a blind-spot monitor. The TRD Pro and Limited trims featured a surround-view camera system, though only the Limited had parking sensors.