2025 Audi Q5 vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available in four main trims: LS, LT, Z71, and RS. The Z71 was the new addition, designed for those seeking a three-row SUV with moderate off-roading capabilities. During test drives near Atlanta, Chevrolet emphasized that the Z71 was not intended to compete with hardcore off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco. Instead, it was engineered to handle reasonably rugged terrain, though not extreme trails like the Rubicon. Pricing for the Traverse was competitive, with the LS starting at $38,995 and the RS topping out at $55,595. The Z71 model, priced at $47,795, featured 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint, with a Jet Black interior accented by "Torch Red" highlights. While synthetic leather seating was optional, the standard cloth seats offered comfort and breathability.

The 2025 Audi Q5 embraced SUV toughness with its large, textured grille, prominent air intakes, and high-mounted headlights. Despite new styling elements, the design felt more like a facelift than a complete redesign. Trim levels included Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige, with LED Headlights Plus and programmable OLED taillights available on higher trims. The Q5 was offered in standard SUV and coupe-like Sportback body styles, with the latter sacrificing cargo space for a sleeker profile. The SQ5 performance variant featured increased power, sport suspension, and distinctive styling elements. The interior design was detailed, with top-notch materials and standard leather seating. However, the SQ5's seats lacked adequate bolstering for spirited driving.

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 18 more horsepower and 50 more lb-ft of torque than the discontinued V6. All-wheel drive was optional across trims, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced dual-clutch system. On highways and country roads, the Traverse provided acceptable acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust growl. The steering was adequate for general driving, though the vehicle's 204.5-inch length was noticeable. The ride quality was commendable, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. The brakes offered progressive stopping power, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway for the FWD Limited trim.

The 2025 Audi Q5 featured a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro AWD. The base model's 2.0-liter turbo-four produced 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, while the SQ5's 3.0-liter V6 delivered 362 hp and 406 lb-ft. The Q5's power output was competitive, though the SQ5 lagged behind some rivals. Despite manufacturer-estimated 0-60 mph times of 4.6 seconds for the SQ5 and 5.8 seconds for the standard Q5, both models felt slower due to turbo lag and rough shifts. The air suspension, standard on the SQ5 and available on the Q5 Prestige, provided capable handling without encouraging aggressive driving. Off-Road modes were available, but the Q5 was more suited to dirt roads than technical trails.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the base LS model, while the LT, Z71, and RS trims featured seven seats with second-row captain's chairs. The Smart Slide second-row seats were easy to use, and a power-folding third row was standard on the RS. Cargo volume was 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96 cubic feet with seats folded. The cabin featured numerous storage options, including a hidden area under the center console. Visibility was generally good, though the third row felt slightly enclosed. The Z71's driver's seat was power-operated, but the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

The 2025 Audi Q5 maintained similar dimensions to the 2024 model, offering adequate headroom and legroom. A sliding and reclining second-row bench was standard, with cargo-area buttons for easy adjustment. The Q5 provided 27.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 56.9 cubic feet with seats folded, surpassing some rivals but falling short of others. A power tailgate and heated front seats were standard, with additional features available on higher trims. The Q5's towing capacity was 4,400 pounds, exceeding some competitors.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, replacing the previous 8-inch screen. The system was responsive and easy to navigate, complemented by an 11-inch digital instrument display. Google-based software enabled intuitive voice commands, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A wireless charging pad was included, along with physical controls for volume and HVAC functions. Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, was available for the first time, offering expanded functionality on pre-mapped roads.

The 2025 Audi Q5 came with an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch central touchscreen, with a 10.9-inch passenger screen on the Prestige trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a cooled wireless charging pad were standard. The MMI infotainment system, based on Android Automotive OS, was user-friendly, with a built-in voice assistant for vehicle functions. A head-up display and Dynamic Interaction Light were available, along with digital key connectivity and a built-in toll transponder.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review. However, it offered a comprehensive suite of standard driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. A surround-view parking camera and other safety features were also included.

The 2025 Audi Q5 featured standard driver-assist technologies such as adaptive cruise control, active front assist, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. Premium Plus models added a 360-degree camera system and adaptive cruise assist. Safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS were not available at the time of review, but Audi aimed to match the previous generation's five-star rating.