2025 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, although the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch “741M” wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthwhile upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, and a turbocharged V8 engine, with the high-performance X5 M Competition variant. The xDrive50e M Sport model tested came with Brooklyn Grey paint and every available equipment package, priced at $88,075. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh and introduced the BMW Curved Display, enhancing the interior's modernity while retaining high-quality materials and construction.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its exterior styling, consistent with Chevrolet's SUV lineup, and its interior design featured digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system. However, the quality of materials, such as hard, glossy plastic and Evotex artificial leather, fell short of expectations for a vehicle in its price range. The Traverse offered trims like LT, Z71, High Country, and RS, with base prices ranging from $41,095 to $55,495. The Z71 off-road version tested included Radiant Red paint, a panoramic sunroof, and various packages, totaling an MSRP of $55,900. Despite its stylish design, the Traverse's material quality detracted from its overall appeal.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured new mild-hybrid engines and a significant upgrade to its electric range and power output. It boasted a more powerful electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission and a 19.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The PHEV offered 38 miles of electric-only driving and achieved 22 mpg in hybrid mode. With 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, it accelerated to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV's adaptive damping air suspension masked its weight, providing a smooth ride despite the large 21-inch wheels. The X5 excelled in handling, with quick steering and excellent visibility, making it a joy to drive. During testing, it achieved an average fuel economy of 38.8 mpg over 95.5 miles.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. While the engine's exhaust note was unappealing, it provided ample power, especially in AWD mode, delivering controlled acceleration. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road use, offered 7.7 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. The Traverse handled trails with ease, and its suspension absorbed rough terrain effectively. Despite its size, the Traverse maintained sound handling and achieved an average fuel economy of 21.5 mpg, slightly exceeding its EPA rating.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered a spacious interior with room for five passengers and a cargo area expandable from 33.1 to 71.2 cubic feet. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The test vehicle featured Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, standard sport seats, and the Climate Comfort Package, which included 20-way power-adjustable front seats, four-zone climate control, and heated features. The panoramic sunroof and side window sunshades enhanced rear-seat comfort. However, the X5 no longer offered a third-row seat option.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a roomy interior, particularly in terms of width. The eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front seats provided comfort, while the Evotex artificial leather upholstery was satisfactory. The Traverse accommodated up to eight passengers with a second-row bench seat, and the test vehicle featured captain's chairs for added comfort. The third-row seats offered adequate comfort but lacked a view due to window design. The Traverse provided 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 97.6 cubic feet with seats folded. However, folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured a BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system running BMW Operating System 8.5. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and over-the-air updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition, leading to inaccurate directions. The head-up display and augmented video function for navigation were highlights, but the reduction in physical controls was less favorable.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Google Built-in, Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play Store access. It also offered Alexa compatibility, OnStar services, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The interface was user-friendly, and Google Assistant responded accurately to voice commands. The climate system controls were conveniently located, and the digital instrumentation panel provided customizable views. The test vehicle included a digital rearview mirror and a surround-view camera system for added convenience.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, which required deliberate activation. It performed well in specific conditions but exhibited errant braking in heavy traffic. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance worked effectively, though the system occasionally misinterpreted obstacles. The X5 received high safety ratings from the IIHS but fell short of an award due to headlight ratings. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star overall crash-test rating.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The Driver Confidence Package added a surround-view camera system and traffic sign recognition. The Enhanced Driving Package featured Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, and remote-parking technology. Super Cruise operated effectively on various roads, though it occasionally disengaged unexpectedly. The Traverse received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS.