2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a sophisticated and luxurious appearance, with its modern Lincoln face being a standout feature in the automaker’s lineup. The Black Label Grand Touring model, although fully loaded and priced at $91,225, had wheels that seemed too plain for its price tag. The vehicle's lighting features, such as the Lincoln Embrace lighting sequence and ambient cabin lighting, added a touch of elegance. Inside, the Aviator boasted a lavish interior with high-end materials, including rich caramel-hued leather seats and a swanky simulated suede headliner. However, some chrome detailing appeared cheap, and the key fob felt too lightweight for a luxury vehicle.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse, particularly in the Z71 trim, offered a rugged yet refined look, suitable for moderate off-roading. The Z71 model, priced at $47,795, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and an Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint job. The interior was practical and comfortable, with Jet Black upholstery accented by "Torch Red" highlights. The Traverse provided a spacious cabin with seating for up to eight in the LS trim, while the Z71 and RS trims offered seven seats with standard captain’s chairs. The Smart Slide second-row seats and power-folding third row enhanced accessibility and cargo flexibility.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring was a plug-in hybrid that delivered impressive power with its twin-turbocharged V6 engine and electric motor, generating 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. Despite its added weight, the Aviator offered a smooth and quiet ride, with various driving modes to optimize efficiency and performance. The plug-in hybrid system allowed for 21 miles of electric driving range and an average of 23 mpg in hybrid mode. However, the drivetrain's responsiveness was sometimes unpredictable, and the regenerative braking system required careful handling for smooth stops.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous V6 engine with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder, producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine provided more power and torque than its predecessor, making acceleration and passing power more than adequate for a vehicle of its size. The Traverse's AWD system, especially in the Z71 trim, offered enhanced traction in slippery conditions. The ride quality was commendable, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance. The Traverse's fuel economy ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway, depending on the drivetrain configuration.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging front seats. However, the third-row seating was cramped and not suitable for adults, with limited legroom and a flat cushion. Cargo space was limited to 18.3 cubic feet with all seats in use, expanding to 77.7 cubic feet with the third row folded.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse excelled in interior space and versatility, with the LS model offering seating for eight and the Z71 and RS trims providing seven seats with captain’s chairs. The Smart Slide second-row seats and power-folding third row made accessing the third row and expanding cargo space easy. The Traverse offered 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to approximately 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The cabin featured numerous storage compartments, including a hidden storage area under the center console.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system running on the outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition and navigation accuracy. However, it included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system. The Aviator also featured a digital instrument cluster, head-up display, and Phone As A Key technology.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and 11-inch digital instrument display, both standard across all trims. The system ran on Google-based software, offering intuitive voice commands and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Traverse also included a wireless charging pad and physical controls for volume and HVAC functions. The Super Cruise hands-free driving aid was available for the first time, enhancing the Traverse's technological appeal.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. However, the steering wheel controls for these features were unnecessarily complicated. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of testing, but it offered a wide range of standard safety features. These included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and a surround-view parking camera. The Traverse's safety systems provided peace of mind during the test drive.