2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2025 Honda Pilot

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 a 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 and reaching $55,595 for the RS, 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 2025 Honda Pilot was offered in several trims, including Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, Elite, and Black Edition. The Black Edition, based on the Pilot Elite, featured black wheels, blacked-out exterior trim, and black leather seats with red accents. The Pilot's design aimed for a rugged look, especially in the TrailSport trim, but the Black Edition was more suited for suburban environments. The interior was thoughtfully designed with quality materials, though the digital displays appeared dated. The Pilot's pricing ranged from $40,200 to $54,580, with the Black Edition priced at $55,975. Despite its attractive design, the Pilot's technology and interior features did not offer a significant "wow factor."

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower 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. The Traverse Z71 featured an advanced AWD system with a dual-clutch arrangement for better grip in slippery conditions. The vehicle's acceleration and passing power were satisfactory, and the exhaust provided a pleasant growl during acceleration. The steering was adequate, and the ride quality was exemplary, 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 model.

The 2025 Honda Pilot was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, generating 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The Pilot offered various driving modes, including Normal, Econ, Snow, Tow, Sport, Trail, and Sand. The AWD system featured torque vectoring and hill descent control, with up to 7.3 inches of ground clearance. The V6 provided good acceleration, but the transmission occasionally felt slow to downshift. Fuel economy was unimpressive, with an average of 20 mpg during testing. The Pilot's handling was predictable, but the ride quality was soft, and the steering and braking systems were well-calibrated. The Pilot could handle challenging terrain, but it was not designed for extreme off-roading.

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 for seven-passenger seating. The Smart Slide second-row seats were easy to use, and the power-folding third row was standard on the RS. Cargo volume was 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The Traverse had numerous storage compartments, including a hidden storage area under the center console. Visibility was generally good, except for the third row, and the driver's seat was power-operated, though the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

The 2025 Honda Pilot excelled in form and function, with three rows of comfortable seats and thoughtful storage solutions. The Black Edition's front row featured a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, but the front passenger seat had only four-way adjustment. The second-row seats were roomy, with a removable center section for easier access to the third row. The third row was suitable for adults if the second row was adjusted. The Pilot had a remote engine start system, triple-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. Cargo space was 18.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 86.5 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch digital instrument display. The system ran on Google-based software, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained, but the headlight controls were buried in the infotainment system. The Traverse also offered Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, which could be activated on pre-mapped single-lane roadways.

The 2025 Honda Pilot's technology appeared dated, with a 10.2-inch digital gauge panel and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The wireless CarPlay function had issues, and the voice recognition system was inconsistent. The Pilot featured CabinTalk for communication with rear passengers and a small head-up display. The technology met basic expectations but did not stand out in the segment.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of testing. However, it offered a comprehensive suite of standard driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Traverse also featured a surround-view parking camera and rear pedestrian alert.

The 2025 Honda Pilot came with standard Honda Sensing safety features, such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The Black Edition had parking sensors and a multi-view camera system with TrailWatch. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems had some issues, but the Pilot earned high marks in crash tests, receiving a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star rating from NHTSA.