2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Volvo XC90

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was available in three model series: B5, B6, and Recharge T8. The B5 featured a turbocharged mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine, while the B6 added a supercharger for enhanced performance. The Recharge T8, a plug-in hybrid, offered the most power and efficiency, with an estimated 32 miles of electric-only range. All models came standard with all-wheel drive. Volvo offered the XC90 in Core, Plus, and Ultimate trim levels, with prices ranging from $56,000 to $79,600, excluding a $1,195 destination charge. The Recharge T8 test vehicle, in Ultimate trim, featured seven-passenger seating, a Lounge Package with massaging front seats, an active air suspension, a Bowers & Wilkins audio system, and a trailer hitch, with an MSRP of $89,145. The XC90's exterior was characterized by a subdued, earthy color palette and various wheel designs up to 21 inches. The interior, though dated, was adorned with rich materials, including wool-blend upholstery or ventilated Nappa leather, an Orrefors crystal shift knob, and natural wood trim.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was offered in four main trims: LS, LT, Z71, and RS. The Z71 was a new addition, designed for moderate off-roading. Chevrolet emphasized that the Z71 was not intended for extreme off-road conditions like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco. Pricing for the Traverse was competitive, with the LS starting at $38,995, excluding a $1,395 destination fee, and the RS reaching $55,595. The Z71 test vehicle, priced at $47,795, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. The interior, with Jet Black and "Torch Red" accents, offered optional synthetic leather seating for an additional $1,000. The standard cloth seats were comfortable and breathable. The Traverse's design included a power-folding third row and an Autosense power liftgate, enhancing cargo capacity and convenience.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor with the B6 model’s supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. This power was delivered to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The battery and electric motor allowed for 32 miles of electric-only driving, with an average of 27 mpg in hybrid mode. In Power mode, the XC90 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in five seconds. Recharging took about 12 hours with a standard outlet, or less than half that time with a 240-volt outlet. The XC90 offered various driving modes, including Pure, Power, Hybrid, Constant AWD, and Off-Road, with up to 9.9 inches of ground clearance. However, the XC90's electric range fell short in hot conditions, and its fuel economy was slightly below EPA estimates. The SUV's performance was lively, but its handling was not thrilling, and the ride quality was firm on irregular pavement.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offered 18 more horsepower and 50 more lb-ft of torque than the V6. All-wheel drive was optional, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced system. The Traverse's acceleration and passing power were satisfactory, with a pleasant exhaust growl. The steering was adequate, and the ride was smooth, even with all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. The brakes were progressive, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 18 mpg city, 26 highway, 21 combined for the FWD Limited to 17/25/20 for the AWD Limited. Official estimates for other trims were not yet available.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8, even in Core trim, was well-equipped with power-adjustable and heated front seats, leather upholstery, wood trim, and a four-zone climate control system. A panoramic glass roof with a one-touch swipe control added to the interior's appeal. Higher trims offered additional features like a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats with massage, and an integrated booster child seat. The front seats had adjustable lower leg support bolsters, though they could catch on clothing. The XC90 seated seven or six with captain’s chairs, with a comfortable bench seat in the second row. Third-row access was tight for adults, but the seats were more accommodating than expected. Cargo capacity was 65.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and 85.7 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse's base LS model offered seating for eight, while the LT, Z71, and RS featured seven seats with standard captain’s chairs. The Smart Slide second-row seats were easy to use, and a power-folding third row was available. The Autosense power liftgate added convenience. Cargo volume was 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The Traverse had numerous storage nooks, 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 test vehicle had a power-operated driver’s seat, but the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in technology, offering Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. These features were complimentary for four years, with subscription payments required afterward. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite radio were standard, with premium sound system options available. The infotainment system was more intuitive than previous versions, and the digital voice assistant was generally effective. The XC90 also included a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and optional head-up display and surround-view camera.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, standard on all models, with rapid response times and simple menus. An 11-inch digital instrument display provided navigation directions. The system ran on Google-based software, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless charging pad was included, and physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained. The Traverse also offered Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, with expanded functionality for single-lane roadways. However, headlight functions were buried in the infotainment system, and the driving mode button was not prominently placed.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was known for its safety, with a five-star NHTSA rating in all but rollover resistance, where it earned four stars. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+ in 2023. However, its advanced driving assistance systems were not as innovative as some rivals. The XC90 included Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist, but it struggled with certain road conditions and made a significant error during testing.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of testing. However, it came with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and more. These systems provided peace of mind during the test drive.