2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Hyundai Venue

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was offered in four trims: LS, LT, Z71, and RS. The Z71 was a new addition, designed for those interested in moderate off-roading. During test drives near Atlanta, it was clear that the Z71 wasn't built for extreme terrains like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco but could handle rugged paths. Pricing for the Traverse started at $38,995 for the LS and went up to $55,595 for the RS, with the Z71 starting at $47,795. The Z71 featured 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint, with a Jet Black interior accented by "Torch Red" details. The standard cloth seats were comfortable, though synthetic leather was available for an extra cost.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue was available in SE, SEL, and Limited trims, with prices ranging from $21,275 to $24,525. The Limited trim, tested with Ecotronic Gray paint, had an MSRP of $24,735. The Venue's design was stylish, with a mature appearance despite its affordability. Inside, the Venue featured hard plastics but maintained a stylish look with striped seats and white trim. The digital instrumentation and 8-inch touchscreen were well-sized, and the controls were of typical Hyundai quality. The Venue was a thoughtfully designed, high-quality small SUV.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offered more power and torque than the V6. All-wheel drive was optional, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced system. The Traverse provided acceptable acceleration and a pleasant exhaust growl. Its steering was adequate, and the ride was smooth, even with all-terrain tires. The brakes were progressive, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue had a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 121 horsepower and 113 lb-ft of torque. Weighing 2,612 pounds, the Venue's CVT maximized power efficiently. It excelled in urban settings with nimble handling and visibility. However, rough roads revealed its unsophisticated suspension. On highways, it maintained speed but struggled with additional weight. The Venue lacked AWD, but its 6.7 inches of ground clearance helped in snowy conditions. It achieved an EPA rating of 31 mpg combined, though our tests showed 30.3 mpg.

The Chevrolet Traverse LS model seated eight, while the LT, Z71, and RS offered seven seats with captain’s chairs. The third row was suitable for average adults, and Smart Slide seats improved access. The power-folding third row and Autosense power liftgate enhanced cargo capacity, with up to 96 cubic feet available. Storage was ample, with hidden compartments for valuables. Visibility was generally good, though the third row felt a bit enclosed. The Z71 had a power driver’s seat, but the front passenger seat was manual.

The Hyundai Venue's higher ground clearance made entry and exit easy. The driver's seat had manual height adjustment, and the steering wheel was adjustable. The back seat was cramped for three, and taller passengers found the front seatbacks uncomfortable. Rear USB ports were available, but storage and air conditioning vents were limited. Cargo space was 18.7 cubic feet, expanding to 31.9 cubic feet with the back seat down.

The Chevrolet Traverse featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, replacing the previous 8-inch screen. It was responsive and easy to navigate, complemented by an 11-inch digital instrument display. 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 were retained. Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, was available, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads.

The Hyundai Venue had an 8-inch touchscreen with modern graphics and simple operation. Standard features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Limited trim added navigation, SiriusXM, and a wireless charger. However, it required wired connections for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system was sophisticated, with native voice recognition and music streaming capabilities.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review. It included a range of driver aids like automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and more. These features provided peace of mind during the test drive.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue came with Hyundai SmartSense, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The SEL trim added blind-spot monitoring, and the Limited trim included cyclist detection. The Venue received Good ratings in IIHS crash tests and a four-star rating from NHTSA.