2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC underwent a generational redesign, maintaining a familiar aesthetic to keep its loyal fanbase content. The exterior changes were subtle, with new taillights and repositioned door handles, while the headlights became narrower and more aggressive. The GLC Coupe retained its distinctive fastback roofline, and the grille design differentiated the AMG models from the GLC 300. Inside, the GLC's interior was luxurious, featuring two-tone leather upholstery and a wood-and-metal dash. The cabin was filled with screens, buttons, and ambient lighting, showcasing Mercedes' commitment to gadgetry and opulence.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered four main trims, with the Z71 being a new addition for those interested in moderate off-roading. The Traverse's pricing was competitive, starting at $38,995 for the LS model and reaching $55,595 for the RS model. The Z71 model, priced at $47,795, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. The interior was adorned with "Torch Red" accents, and the standard cloth seats provided comfort and breathability. The Traverse's design focused on practicality and versatility, appealing to families and adventure-seekers alike.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing an impressive 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous generation's 385-hp V6. The engine was supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, enhancing performance. The base GLC 300 offered 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, with rear-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available. The GLC 43 featured a nine-speed automatic transmission with a multi-clutch system, providing faster shifts and improved torque handling. The performance suspension and four-wheel steering contributed to its sporty nature, though the ride was firmer than some might prefer for daily commuting.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-hp 3.6-liter V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offered more power and torque than its predecessor. All-wheel drive was optional on all trims, with the Z71 featuring a dual-clutch system for better traction. The Traverse provided satisfactory acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust note. The steering was adequate for most driving situations, and the ride quality was commendable, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance. The brakes were progressive, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless, contributing to its overall performance.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cabin was driver-focused, with controls angled toward the driver. The front seats offered standard heat and memory functions, with optional ventilation and heated rear seats. The GLC SUV provided 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The GLC Coupe offered 17.6 cubic feet of cargo volume, increasing to 52.6 cubic feet with the seats down. The power-folding rear seats and flat-folding design added convenience, though the cargo space was not class-leading.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse's base LS model offered seating for eight, while the LT, Z71, and RS trims featured seven seats with second-row captain's chairs. The Smart Slide second-row seats and power-folding third row enhanced accessibility and cargo capacity. The Traverse provided 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to approximately 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The cabin featured numerous storage compartments, including a hidden storage area under the center console and an underfloor storage bin in the cargo bay. Visibility was generally good, though the third row's view was somewhat restricted.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen running the MBUX infotainment system, with responsive voice commands and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Exclusive trim added navigation, a Burmester 3D surround sound system, and an off-road display with a "Transparent Hood" feature. The Pinnacle trim included a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. An Advanced USB package was available, increasing the number of USB-C ports from three to six.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, standard on all models, with quick response times and user-friendly menus. An 11-inch digital instrument display provided customizable information. The system ran on Google-based software, offering intuitive voice commands and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The wireless charging pad securely held smartphones during driving. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained, though the driving mode button was less prominently placed. The Traverse introduced Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with an "Acceptable" rating for the standard front crash-prevention system. Standard safety features included active brake assist, attention assist, blind-spot and exit warning assist, adaptive braking technology, and active parking assist. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for an imminent crash by tightening seatbelts and closing windows. The optional Driver Assistance Package added advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and active lane-keeping assist.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been crash-tested by the 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, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view parking camera. These features provided peace of mind during the test drive, even though they were not actively tested.