2025 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its classic design from its 2017 debut, maintaining a modern and appealing look. The new Carbon Turbo trim featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Mazda also introduced improvements such as better fuel economy for the base engine, wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in several trims. The CX-5 lineup offered a range of trims with prices starting at $29,300, providing an upscale feel at a mainstream price.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Traverse showcased a stylish exterior and interior design, though it fell short in material quality. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road adventures, came with features like a panoramic sunroof and a Driver Confidence Package, priced at $55,900. Despite its appealing design, the Traverse's use of hard plastics and artificial leather detracted from its overall sophistication, especially given its higher price point.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 horsepower on premium gas and 227 horsepower on regular gas, with a torque of 320 lb-ft and 310 lb-ft, respectively. While not instantly powerful, the turbocharged engine offered a rewarding drive with a steady acceleration. However, its fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with an observed 22.9 mpg. The CX-5's suspension and handling improvements provided a smooth and sophisticated driving experience, with excellent visibility and a quiet interior.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse, powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, produced 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. The Traverse Z71 excelled in off-road conditions with its enhanced suspension and all-terrain tires. Despite its size, the Traverse offered controlled acceleration and a smoother ride, though it lacked a sporty feel. The Z71's tires and suspension were beneficial for daily driving, and the vehicle achieved an average of 21.5 mpg, slightly better than its EPA rating.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered comfortable seating with standard heated front seats and leather upholstery in most trims. Despite being smaller in its segment, it provided a snug yet comfortable space for four adults. The CX-5's cabin design and quality rivaled luxury brands, though its cargo space was limited to 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted significant interior volume, accommodating up to eight passengers with its wide design. The Z71 trim featured heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort. While the third row was less accommodating in terms of visibility and charging ports, the Traverse offered substantial cargo space, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 97.6 cubic feet with seats folded. However, folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats, which could be inconvenient.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured a non-touchscreen infotainment system with traditional controls, though it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was easy to navigate, and the Carbon Turbo trim included a 10-speaker Bose sound system. Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine start and other features, though its voice interface could be improved.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Google Built-in, wireless smartphone integration, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The system was user-friendly, with effective voice recognition and climate controls. The Traverse also offered an 11-inch digital instrumentation panel and optional features like a digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera, enhancing its technological appeal.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with essential ADAS features, including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered additional safety upgrades, though the Carbon Turbo test car lacked some advanced features. The CX-5 received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA, though it did not earn the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation for 2024.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. The test vehicle's Driver Confidence Package added a surround-view camera and traffic sign recognition. The Enhanced Driving Package offered Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid. The Traverse received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick award from IIHS.