2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Subaru Outback

The 2024 Subaru Outback maintained its rugged yet refined aesthetic, with the Wilderness trim receiving a subtle update featuring a new front fascia and LED fog lights. The dark gray cladding provided a striking contrast to the Autumn Green Metallic paint of the Touring XT model, which was described as a "green-tinged dark khaki." The Outback's exterior varied across trims, with tasteful chrome accents on the Touring trim and different wheel designs, including black 17-inch alloy wheels standard and matte black for the Wilderness trim. Inside, the top-trim Touring XT impressed with its Java Brown Nappa leather upholstery, offering a level of luxury unexpected from Subaru, while other trims featured a mix of leather and synthetic materials.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse introduced the Z71 trim, designed for moderate off-roading, and featured a bold exterior with gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. The Traverse's interior was highlighted by Jet Black upholstery with "Torch Red" accents, providing a sporty feel. The Z71 model offered standard cloth seats, with optional synthetic leather for added comfort. The Traverse's design catered to practicality and style, with a focus on accommodating families and adventurers alike.

The 2024 Subaru Outback was powered by a "Boxer" horizontally opposed engine, with the base 2.5-liter flat-four producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The XT trims, including the Wilderness, featured a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, enhancing towing capacity to 3,500 lbs. Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Lineartronic CVT were standard, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. The Outback's ground clearance ranged from 8.7 inches to 9.2 inches on the Wilderness trim, which also included all-terrain tires and advanced X-Mode for off-road conditions.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offered more power and torque than its predecessor. All-wheel drive was optional, with the Z71 trim featuring a dual-clutch system for improved traction. The Traverse provided strong acceleration and a pleasant exhaust note, with a ride quality that balanced comfort and capability. The Z71's all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance contributed to its off-road prowess, while the fuel economy ranged from 17 to 26 mpg depending on the configuration.

The 2024 Subaru Outback offered generous interior space, with more front headroom than competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. It provided ample legroom in both rows, though cargo space was slightly less than rivals with all seats in place. The Outback featured dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat starting from the Premium trim. Higher trims added features like a heated steering wheel and power moonroof, enhancing comfort and convenience.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse accommodated up to eight passengers in the base LS trim, with seven-seat configurations available in higher trims. The Z71 and RS trims featured standard captain's chairs for easier third-row access. The Traverse offered a power-folding third row and an Autosense power liftgate for added convenience. Cargo space was competitive, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 96 cubic feet with seats folded. The Traverse included numerous storage options, such as a hidden center console compartment and underfloor storage in the cargo area.

The 2024 Subaru Outback's technology suite included a CD player in the Touring trim, with USB-C and USB-A ports available on most trims. The top-trim featured an 11.6-inch infotainment screen, while the base model retained dual 7-inch screens. The Starlink multimedia system offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connectivity starting from the Premium trim. A 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system was available on most trims, enhancing the audio experience.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen standard across all models, with rapid response times and user-friendly menus. An 11-inch digital instrument display provided customizable information. The system ran on Google-based software, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Traverse included a wireless charging pad and physical controls for volume and HVAC functions. The Super Cruise hands-free driving aid was available, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads.

The 2024 Subaru Outback earned a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It featured the EyeSight suite of driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. Reverse automatic braking and blind-spot monitoring were standard on higher trims, with additional safety features like a wide-angle camera and driver-attention monitor on the Touring trim.

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, and adaptive cruise control. The Traverse also featured a surround-view parking camera and rear pedestrian alert, providing peace of mind for drivers.