2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that was characteristic of modern Mercedes design, with a subtle sensuality that, while bordering on the mundane, promised to age gracefully. Our GLS 450 test vehicle was adorned with striking 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, polished metal accents, and a lustrous Twilight Blue paint, creating a counter-cultural statement against the prevailing trend of blacked-out aesthetics. Inside, the GLS 450 featured a sophisticated Bahia Brown over Black interior, complemented by natural-grain Grey Oak, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, embodying the rich detailing synonymous with Mercedes interiors.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its exterior styling, consistent with Chevrolet's recent SUV designs. The Traverse's interior, however, was marred by the use of hard, glossy plastics and Evotex artificial leather that fell short of emulating genuine leather. Despite these material shortcomings, the Traverse offered a spacious cabin with a user-friendly layout, digital instrumentation, and a Google-based infotainment system. Our Z71 test vehicle, equipped with off-road enhancements, featured Radiant Red paint, a panoramic sunroof, and a suite of driver assistance technologies, culminating in an MSRP of $55,900.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, with its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, delivered 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, providing smooth and swift acceleration. It reached 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, aided by a mild-hybrid system that added an instant 148 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system offered selectable driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual, allowing for tailored vehicle dynamics. The GLS 450 boasted a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a combined fuel economy rating of 21 mpg, though our test yielded 19.9 mpg. The adaptive air suspension and massive Continental tires contributed to its athleticism, while the brakes ensured smooth stops. Off-road capabilities were enhanced by the Off-Road menu within MBUX and the optional Off-Road Package on the GLS 580.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse, powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, produced 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. In FWD mode, it exhibited torque steer, but engaging AWD resulted in controlled acceleration. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road use, offered 7.7 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, a skid plate, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. The Traverse's driving modes included Tow/Haul, Normal, and Sport, though it felt large and less sporty on narrow roads. The all-terrain tires provided good grip and minimal noise, while the brakes were touchy. The Traverse achieved an EPA-rated 21 mpg in combined driving, with our test vehicle averaging 21.5 mpg.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious interior with supple leather surfaces, heated and ventilated front seats, and a commanding view. The Exclusive Trim Package added heated rear seats and a four-zone climate control system. The second-row captain’s chairs provided excellent thigh support and legroom, while the third-row seat was snug for adults but suitable for children. Cargo space was practical, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 84.7 cubic feet.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a spacious interior with an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and heated front seats. The Z71 trim featured Evotex artificial leather, which, while not genuine, did not detract from comfort. The second-row captain’s chairs offered good support, but the lack of side window shades was a drawback. The third-row seats provided some leg support but lacked a view due to the rear window design. Cargo space was commendable, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, 56.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 97.6 cubic feet. Folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays. The system offered improved graphics and various instrumentation themes, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console caused occasional frustration. Despite this, MBUX was intuitive, with outstanding voice recognition and augmented reality navigation.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its standard 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Google Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The interface was user-friendly, with effective Google Assistant voice recognition. The lack of a tuning knob was a minor flaw, but the steering wheel controls compensated for it. The Traverse also offered an 11-inch digital instrumentation panel with customizable views and optional features like a digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera system.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through MBUX. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were praised for their subtle and smooth operation, with effective forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist systems. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems performed well on various road conditions, with only a single instance of temporary deactivation.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse included a comprehensive suite of driver aids, such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The Driver Confidence Package added a surround-view camera system and traffic sign recognition, while the Enhanced Driving Package offered Super Cruise hands-free driving assist and remote-parking technology. Super Cruise was effective, though it occasionally deactivated on certain road transitions. The Traverse received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS.