2024 Nissan Rogue vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Nissan Rogue underwent its first major styling update since the 2021 model year, maintaining its lineup of S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims. The new design featured a larger grille that seamlessly integrated with the stack headlights and daytime running lights, which were signature elements of the Rogue. The rear fascia saw minor changes with redesigned inner taillight elements. The Rogue SV received a new 18-inch wheel design, while the Platinum trim boasted a new 19-inch machined-finish wheel design and additional black exterior trim, including an optional black roof. Inside, the dashboard was updated to accommodate a new 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, enhancing the premium feel of the cabin. The Rogue SV models received new materials throughout the interior, and the Platinum trim offered leather seats with a new Chestnut brown color and quilted stitching, contributing to an upscale ambiance.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available in four main trims: LS, LT, Z71, and RS, with the Z71 being a new addition aimed at those interested in moderate off-roading. The Traverse's design was competitive, with pricing 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 of the Z71 was accented with "Torch Red" details, and while synthetic leather seating was optional, the standard cloth seats were comfortable and breathable. The Traverse's design was practical, with a focus on functionality and comfort, making it a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue was powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, part of Nissan's VC-Turbo lineup, which allowed it to vary its compression ratio for optimal power or fuel economy. This engine produced 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque, outperforming competitors like the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester. However, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) was less impressive, as it was slow to transfer power to the wheels. The Rogue offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available. Despite its powerful engine, the Rogue's suspension was firmer than expected, affecting ride quality without improving handling. The vehicle was quiet, but the exhaust note was less appealing.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower 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 provided more power and torque than its predecessor. All-wheel drive was optional on all trims, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced system. The Traverse offered satisfactory acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust growl during acceleration. The steering was adequate, though the vehicle's length was noticeable. The ride quality was excellent, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance. The brakes were progressive, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway for the FWD Limited model.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue offered competitive passenger space, with differences mainly in legroom compared to rivals. It provided 36.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 74.1 cubic feet with them folded, which was less than some competitors but more than others. The optional Divide-N-Hide system allowed for flexible cargo configurations, and the Rogue featured a power liftgate on SV models and a motion-activated liftgate on SL and Platinum trims. The center console offered additional storage, though accessing it was somewhat awkward.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse's base LS model came with seating for eight, while the LT, Z71, and RS trims offered seven seats with second-row captain's chairs. The Smart Slide second-row seats were easy to use, and the power-folding third row was standard on the RS. The Autosense power liftgate was a convenient feature, and cargo volume expanded to 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The Traverse had numerous storage options, including a hidden area under the center console and an underfloor storage bin in the cargo bay. Visibility was generally good, though the third row had limited views. The Z71 model featured a power-operated driver's seat, but the front passenger seat had manual controls.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue featured an 8-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on lower trims, while SL and Platinum models received a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity and a digital instrument cluster. The Rogue was the first Nissan to offer Google built-in software, providing integrated Google Maps, Assistant, and Play Store access. However, connectivity was free for only five years, and a data plan was required for third-party apps. The dual 12.3-inch screen setup was a significant improvement, though the touchscreen was occasionally slow to boot up. The Rogue included multiple USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad on higher trims. Nissan extended the free trial period for its Connect Services to three years, offering features like remote door lock/unlock and vehicle health reports.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen standard on all models, with rapid response times and easy-to-navigate menus. An 11-inch digital instrument display provided customizable information, enhancing navigation. The system ran on Google-based software, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The wireless charging pad in the Z71 model was effective and secure. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained, though the driving mode button was less accessible. The Traverse introduced Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads. The system disengaged at intersections, requiring driver attention.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue received favorable safety scores, with top "Good" ratings from the IIHS in several crash tests and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, and rear automatic emergency braking. ProPilot Assist, an advanced driver assistance system, was available, offering lane centering and adaptive cruise control.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review. 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.