2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2025 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE exhibited subtle yet impactful aesthetic changes. Its sharper headlights and taillights, along with black fender flares over the wheel arches, contributed to a refined look. The grille featured chrome inserts, and the optional AMG Line package added a sporty touch with a distinct grille design. Standard 19-inch wheels could be upgraded to 21-inch options for a bolder appearance. Inside, the cabin maintained a classic Mercedes-Benz feel, with leather and soft-touch surfaces, though it lacked the futuristic vibe of the newer EQ models. The open-pore walnut trim was visually appealing, but the Bahia Brown seating surfaces in the test model created a dated look reminiscent of a 1970s rec room.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its exterior styling, consistent with Chevrolet's recent SUV designs. The interior design was appealing, featuring digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system. However, the quality of materials fell short, with hard, glossy plastics and Evotex artificial leather that failed to convincingly mimic genuine leather. The Traverse offered trims like LT, Z71, High Country, and RS, with base prices ranging from $41,095 to $55,495. The Z71 trim, tested with Radiant Red paint, a panoramic sunroof, and additional packages, had an MSRP of $55,900, including destination charges.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the entry-level GLE 350 with 255 horsepower, the mid-line GLE 450 with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, and the top-tier GLE 580 with a 4.0-liter V8. However, the test vehicle was the new 450e plug-in hybrid, which combined a 2.0-liter turbo inline four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque in hybrid mode. Despite its power, the 450e was about half a second slower to 60 mph than the GLE 450 due to the weight of its 23.3-kWh battery. The battery allowed for an impressive 48 miles of all-electric range, with the test model exceeding expectations at 55 miles. The 450e featured an 11-kW onboard charger and could accept a 60-kW DC fast charge, making it convenient for road trips.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse, powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, produced 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. In front-wheel-drive mode, it exhibited torque steer, but engaging all-wheel drive provided controlled acceleration. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road use, offered 7.7 inches of ground clearance, unique 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, a skid plate, red tow hooks, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. The Traverse's driving modes included Tow/Haul, Normal, and Sport, though it lacked a sporty feel. The Z71's suspension handled off-road conditions well, and the all-terrain tires provided a smooth ride on rough pavement. The test vehicle achieved an EPA-rated 21.5 mpg in combined driving, slightly exceeding the official estimate.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in interior luxuries, with standard heated front seats and optional ventilation and massage functions. Heated and cooled cup holders, customizable ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and soft-close doors enhanced comfort. The Burmester stereo system provided an exceptional audio experience. However, the fixed sun visors were a minor inconvenience. The GLE offered 31.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with the second row folded. It could tow up to 7,700 pounds and featured Trailer Maneuvering Assist for easier trailer handling.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted significant interior space, particularly in width. The eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front seats ensured comfort. The Z71 trim featured Evotex artificial leather, which, while not genuine, did not compromise comfort. The Traverse accommodated up to eight passengers with a second-row bench seat, though the test model had captain's chairs. The third-row seats offered adequate comfort but limited visibility due to window design. Cargo space was generous, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97.6 cubic feet with all seats folded. However, folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and the MBUX infotainment system. While the screen was smaller than those in other Mercedes models, it was functional and easy to navigate. The system included a touchpad on the center console and voice control via "Hey, Mercedes." The augmented reality navigation system provided helpful overlays, and the off-road page offered detailed information. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, though connectivity issues were noted. USB-C ports provided ample charging options.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse featured a standout 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play Store access. It also supported Alexa, OnStar, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and smartphone charging were standard, along with SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The interface was user-friendly, though it lacked a tuning knob. Climate controls were conveniently located, and the 11-inch digital instrumentation panel offered customizable views. The test vehicle included a digital rearview mirror and a high-definition surround-view camera system for enhanced visibility.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered advanced driver aids, with standard blind-spot monitoring and optional features like active blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane-change assist. The adaptive cruise control was particularly effective. The GLE received a five-star side crash rating and a four-star rollover rating from the NHTSA. The IIHS awarded it top scores in crashworthiness and crash avoidance, with an "Acceptable" headlight rating for models with the Digital Light package.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, active blind-spot monitoring, and more. The test vehicle's Driver Confidence Package added a surround-view camera system and traffic sign recognition. The Enhanced Driving Package included Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, and remote-parking technology. The Traverse received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS.