2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its familiar design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, with only minor updates. This design, characterized by traditional Mazda styling cues, continued to look modern and appealing. The test vehicle, a new-for-2024 Carbon Turbo trim, featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts. Mazda also introduced new colors, including Platinum Quartz and premium Rhodium White, enhancing the vehicle's aesthetic appeal. The CX-5 lineup offered improved fuel economy for base engine models, wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in several trims. The 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo models provided different engine options, with the Turbo offering up to 256 horsepower. The CX-5's pricing ranged from $29,300 to $40,600, plus a destination charge, and the Carbon Turbo test vehicle was priced at $39,355, including destination. Despite being a compact crossover, the CX-5 exuded a sense of value, with upgraded interior materials, seating, technology, and more, resulting in an upscale crossover SUV at a mainstream price.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available in four main trims: LS, LT, Z71, and RS, with the Z71 being a new addition for those interested in moderate off-roading. During a test drive near Atlanta, it was clear that the Z71 was not designed for extreme off-roading 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 model. The Z71 test vehicle, priced at $47,795, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. The interior had Jet Black upholstery with "Torch Red" accents, and synthetic leather seating was optional. The Traverse's design and features made it a strong contender among its rivals, including the Kia Telluride, Ford Explorer, and Honda Pilot.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, while regular gas provided 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, allowing the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to build revs and deliver a satisfying driving experience. However, the CX-5's fuel efficiency was not impressive, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined and an observed 22.9 mpg during testing. The CX-5's tall and narrow feel provided excellent outward visibility, making it easy to maneuver in various settings. Mazda's re-tuned suspension, stiffer frame, and standard all-wheel drive contributed to a smoother ride and responsive handling. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced cornering and minimized body motions. On highways, the CX-5 was quiet, while in the city, it offered lively handling. It could tackle well-traveled trails with its 7.9 inches of ground clearance and had a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offered more power and torque than the discontinued V6. All-wheel drive was optional on every trim, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced dual-clutch system for improved traction. The Traverse's acceleration and passing power were satisfactory for its size, and the exhaust provided a pleasant growl during acceleration. The steering was adequate, though the Traverse's 204.5-inch length was noticeable. The ride quality was exemplary, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. The brakes were progressive, and the fuel-saving stop-and-start feature was seamless. The Traverse's EPA estimates ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway, depending on the trim and drivetrain.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered standard heated front seats, redesigned for comfort and support. The driver's seat had six-way power adjustment, while passengers could manually adjust seat height. Leather upholstery was standard on most trims, with premium Nappa leather available on the top-tier 2.5 Turbo Signature. The CX-5's interior was comfortable for four adults, though it was among the smaller models in its segment. The rear seat provided good support and a proper sitting position, with rear air conditioning vents and a center armrest enhancing passenger comfort. The cabin's design and quality elevated the CX-5 above many mass-market rivals, with good storage space despite somewhat awkward cupholders. The cargo area offered 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded, which was less than most compact crossovers.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse's base LS model came with seating for eight, while the LT offered second-row captain's chairs. The Z71 and RS trims were seven-seaters with standard captain's chairs, providing easier access to the third row. 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 Autosense power liftgate, standard on all models, allowed for convenient access to the cargo area. The Traverse offered 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and approximately 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded, ranking among class leaders. The cabin featured numerous storage nooks, including a hidden storage area under the center console and an underfloor storage bin in the cargo bay. Visibility was mostly positive, though the third row had limited views. The Z71 test vehicle had a power-operated driver's seat, but the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreen infotainment systems in favor of traditional switchgear for various controls. However, it offered a setting for touchscreen operation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connectivity available in several trims. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a large knob and surrounding buttons on the center console. Mazda Connected Services provided remote engine starting, a find my car feature, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and more. The Carbon Turbo trim included a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, enhancing the SUV's premium interior.

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 configurable information and vehicle functions. The Google-based software offered intuitive voice commands and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The wireless charging pad in the Z71 held the phone securely during cornering. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained, though the driving mode button was less prominently placed. The Traverse introduced Super Cruise hands-free driving aid, expanding its functionality to over 750,000 miles of roads by 2025. Super Cruise could be activated on pre-mapped single-lane roadways, though it automatically disengaged at intersections.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) as standard, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights, traffic sign recognition, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 had previously earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, though it had not received it for 2024. The NHTSA awarded the CX-5 five-star ratings, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet undergone crash tests by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of testing. However, it offered a comprehensive suite of driver aids at no extra cost, including 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, rear pedestrian alert, and a surround-view parking camera.