2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2025 Lincoln Aviator

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 model and reaching $55,595 for the RS model, excluding destination fees. 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 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, boasted classic design proportions with a blunt nose, short front overhang, and a tapered roofline. While the 2025 styling was less elegant than before, the interior exuded a classic architectural sensibility. The Aviator's remote keyless entry fob was criticized for its cheap appearance, but the SUV offered advanced technology like Phone as a Key and a touchpad entry system. Available in Premiere, Reserve, and Black Label trims, the Aviator's pricing ranged from $60,990 to $89,090. The Reserve trim test vehicle, priced at $83,550, included options like Whisper Blue paint, a center console between second-row captain’s chairs, and several option packages. The Reserve II Package added features like upgraded lighting, 30-way-adjustable front seats with massage, and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima audio system.

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. All-wheel drive was optional on every trim, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced system. The Traverse provided acceptable acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust 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 Traverse Limited with FWD.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission. Drivers could choose from various driving modes, and the adaptive air suspension firmed up in Excite mode. The Aviator excelled in Normal mode, offering ample power for acceleration and passing. However, the observed fuel economy was 17.7 mpg, below the official 20 mpg combined rating. The Aviator provided clear sightlines, aided by thin windshield pillars and large sideview mirrors. The ride quality was generally pleasant, but the 22-inch wheels and thin tires struggled with rough surfaces. The Aviator's adaptive Air Glide suspension effectively controlled body motions, ensuring a composed and calming ride.

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 a power-folding third row was available. 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 nooks, including a hidden storage area under the center console. Visibility was mostly positive, except for the third row, and the Z71 test vehicle had a power-operated driver’s seat.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator's Perfect Position front seats offered 30-way adjustability, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain’s chairs were roomy and supportive, with heating and ventilation. However, the third-row seats were low and flat, with limited legroom. Storage space was excellent, with a smartphone charging pad, cupholders, and a sizable bin under the armrest. The Aviator provided 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 78.6 cubic feet with the third row folded. The test vehicle featured an optional console between the second-row seats, but side window sunshades were missing.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, replacing the previous 8-inch screen. The system was responsive and easy to navigate, with an 11-inch digital instrument display providing navigation directions. The infotainment unit ran on Google-based software, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Traverse also offered Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, which expanded its functionality to pre-mapped single-lane roadways. However, some controls, like headlight functions, were buried in the infotainment system.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator had a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Lincoln Digital Experience. The system included Google Built-in and Alexa Built-in, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts in the test vehicle. The Aviator featured an app called Elevated Journey, offering mindfulness coaching for the road. The 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system provided excellent audio quality, and the head-up display offered a widescreen presentation of data.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not undergone crash tests by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of testing. However, it offered a wide range 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 Lincoln Aviator came with the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0 suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. The reverse braking assist system was overly sensitive, but adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist worked well. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assistance system, was standard, with a four-year subscription. The Aviator earned five-star ratings from NHTSA and Good ratings from IIHS, indicating strong safety performance.