2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2023 Honda HR-V

The 2023 Honda HR-V underwent a significant styling transformation, shedding some of its quirky charm for a more sophisticated and modern appearance. The lowered beltline and simplified detailing contributed to a sleeker look, with cleaner lines and fewer interruptions. The windshield wipers were discreetly tucked under the hood's lip, and the black molding strips on the roof were removed. The EX-L model we tested featured perforated leather seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power moonroof, creating a comfortable and upscale cabin environment. The interior design followed the refinement trend set by the 2022 Civic, with premium touches like a metal honeycomb grille and touch-sensitive lights.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered a rugged yet refined look, especially in the new Z71 trim designed for moderate off-roading. The Z71 model we tested featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and an Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint, adding a touch of elegance to its adventurous spirit. Inside, the Traverse boasted a Jet Black interior with "Torch Red" accents, providing a lively atmosphere. The cabin was spacious, with Smart Slide second-row seats for easy access to the third row. The power-folding third row and Autosense power liftgate added convenience, while the hidden storage areas offered practicality. Despite its size, the Traverse maintained a comfortable ride, even on all-terrain tires.

The 2023 Honda HR-V was powered by a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque. This was an improvement over the previous model, and the updated CVT with Step-Shift function aimed to mimic traditional automatic transmission sounds. The HR-V offered Normal, Snow, and ECON drive modes, with an additional Sport mode for a more dynamic driving experience. While the HR-V was fun to drive, it wasn't overpowered, and competitors offered more powertrain options. The HR-V's suspension and widened tracks contributed to its enjoyable handling on mountain roads.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower 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, enhancing acceleration and passing power. The Traverse's AWD system, especially in the Z71 trim, offered advanced capabilities for slippery conditions. The ride was smooth, even with all-terrain tires, and the brakes provided controlled stops. The fuel-saving stop-and-start feature was seamless, and the Traverse's fuel economy ranged from 17 to 26 mpg, depending on the drivetrain.

The 2023 Honda HR-V, a subcompact SUV, offered a well-thought-out interior with a center console featuring a shelf for drive mode controls and USB ports. The HR-V's fastback design slightly reduced rear-seat headroom, but cargo space remained competitive, with 24.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 55.1 cubic feet with them folded. The 60/40 split rear seats provided a higher seating position and a nearly flat floor when folded. Passenger volume varied by trim, with the EX-L offering more space than the LX and Sport trims.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse, a midsize SUV, provided ample space for passengers and cargo. The base LS model seated eight, while higher trims featured second-row captain's chairs for seven-passenger seating. The Smart Slide second-row seats and power-folding third row enhanced accessibility and cargo capacity. With the second and third rows folded, the Traverse offered approximately 96 cubic feet of cargo space. The cabin featured numerous storage nooks, including a hidden area under the center console. Visibility was generally good, though the third row had limited views due to the rear fender design.

The 2023 Honda HR-V featured a tablet-style infotainment system with a 7-inch digital gauge cluster and a 7-inch color touchscreen display, while the EX-L trim boasted a 9-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless versions on the EX-L. The HR-V also included a Qi-compatible wireless charging pad and an eight-speaker audio system on the EX-L trim. The infotainment system offered programmable shortcuts and Smart Shortcuts for user preferences.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, standard across all models. The system ran on Google-based software, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An 11-inch digital instrument display provided customizable information. The Traverse retained physical controls for volume and HVAC functions, though the driving mode button was less prominent. The Super Cruise hands-free driving aid was available for the first time, expanding its functionality to single-lane roadways.

The 2023 Honda HR-V came standard with the Honda Sensing suite, including adaptive cruise control, collision-mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. New features for 2023 included traffic-sign recognition and traffic jam assist. The HR-V had not yet been crash-tested for 2023, but the 2022 model received high safety ratings.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and more. While crash test results were pending, the Traverse's safety features provided peace of mind during our test drive.