2025 Hyundai Santa Fe 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, it was clear that the Z71 was not designed for extreme off-road adventures like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco, but it 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 came loaded with features. 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.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe, in its fifth generation, offered five trims: SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, and Calligraphy. Its design, unchanged since its 2024 debut, featured a boxy shape with a long wheelbase and pixelated H-shaped LED headlamps. The rear design, however, suffered from mismatched proportions, with taillights positioned lower than ideal. Each trim had specific wheels, ranging from 18 to 21 inches, and the XRT trim added chrome and black exterior accents. Inside, the Santa Fe accommodated seven passengers, except for the Calligraphy trim, which featured captain's chairs. The interior offered a range of materials from cloth to Nappa leather, though some squeaks and rattles were noted during testing.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine provided more power and torque than its predecessor. All-wheel drive was optional across trims, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced system. The Traverse offered satisfactory acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust growl. Its steering was adequate for its size, and the ride quality was commendable, 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 highway for the FWD Limited trim.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe came with a standard 2.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. It offered FWD or AWD, except for the XRT trim, which was AWD only. The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission occasionally lagged in downshifting, and turbo lag was noticeable. The gear selector, located on a stalk, required some getting used to. The XRT trim featured 30-inch all-terrain tires and 8.3 inches of ground clearance, improving off-road geometry. While not a rugged rock crawler, the Santa Fe handled graded dirt roads well. The hybrid model offered 231 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, with FWD standard and AWD optional.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse's base LS model seated eight, while the LT offered captain's chairs. The Z71 and RS trims were seven-seaters with standard captain's chairs, allowing easier access to the third row. The Smart Slide second-row seats were user-friendly, and a power-folding third row was available. Cargo volume was 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96 cubic feet with seats folded. The cabin featured numerous storage options, including a hidden area under the center console. Visibility was generally good, though the third row felt slightly enclosed. The Z71's driver's seat was power-operated, but the front passenger seat was manual.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe's base SE trim included a hands-free liftgate and dual-zone climate control. The XRT trim added heated front seats and a sunroof, while the Calligraphy trim offered heated second-row seats and a premium audio system. All trims featured a two-level glove box, with upper trims offering a UV-C sanitizer. The Santa Fe boasted the most third-row legroom in its class, and the second row had adjustable cushion angles. Cargo space was 14.6 cubic feet with all seats up, expanding to 79.6 cubic feet with seats folded. The rear opening was wider and taller, facilitating loading. Most trims could tow 3,500 pounds, with the XRT capable of 4,500 pounds.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, replacing the previous 8-inch screen. It offered quick response times and simple menus, complemented by an 11-inch digital instrument display. The system ran on Google-based software, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless charging pad was included, and physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained. Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, was available for the first time, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads. However, some controls, like headlight functions, were buried in the infotainment system.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, with the top trims also featuring a digital gauge cluster. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard. Upper trims offered Amazon Music, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and Hyundai Pay. Charging options included multiple USB-C ports and wireless charging. A digital key feature allowed unlocking and starting the car via smartphone or Apple Watch. The Santa Fe offered a digital rearview mirror and head-up display on higher trims. Bluelink app connectivity was standard, providing remote access to climate control and vehicle monitoring.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of testing. 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 rear pedestrian alert were also standard.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a range of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like rear parking collision avoidance and Highway Drive Assist. The NHTSA awarded the Santa Fe a four-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS rated it as Good in most categories, with Acceptable scores for headlights and LATCH.