2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2025 Jeep Wrangler

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available in four main trims: LS, LT, Z71, and RS. The Z71 was a new addition, designed for those seeking a three-row SUV with moderate off-roading capabilities. During a test drive near Atlanta, Chevrolet emphasized that the Z71 was not intended for extreme off-roading like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco, but it could handle reasonably rugged terrain. The Traverse's pricing was competitive, starting at $38,995 for the LS model and reaching $55,595 for the RS model, which included nearly every available feature. 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" details. The standard cloth seats were comfortable, though synthetic leather was an option for an additional cost.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler Sport S, encountered as a rental in Honolulu, was a black hardtop with dark gray wheels. Despite the heat-absorbing color, the Wrangler's appeal lay in its open-air driving experience. Jeep offered the Wrangler in various trims, including the powerful Rubicon 392 with a 470-horsepower V8 engine. The Sport S model had a few options, such as black paint, a hardtop, and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, bringing the MSRP to $49,175. The Wrangler's interior was functional, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a focus on utility. Despite its basic design, the Wrangler's iconic seven-slot grille and American-made label contributed to its popularity, even if it lacked the sophistication of other modern vehicles.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower V6 engine 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 on every trim, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced system. The Traverse provided acceptable acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust growl. Its steering was adequate, though the vehicle's 204.5-inch length was noticeable. The ride quality was excellent, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. The brakes were progressive, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway, depending on the trim and drivetrain.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler offered a standard 3.6-liter V6 engine with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The four-cylinder engine produced 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, offering slightly better fuel efficiency at 21 mpg combined. During a test drive in Hawaii, the Wrangler achieved an average fuel economy of 19.2 mpg. The Wrangler's standard four-wheel drive, high ground clearance, and narrow width made it well-suited for Hawaiian terrain. However, its three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA was a concern. The ride was rough, with disconnected steering feel at higher speeds. Despite not taking the Sport S off-roading, previous experiences with the Rubicon demonstrated the Wrangler's off-road capabilities.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the base LS model, while the LT, Z71, and RS trims featured second-row captain's chairs, reducing capacity to seven. The third-row seats were suitable for average-sized adults, with Smart Slide second-row seats for easy access. The Traverse provided 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. Storage options included a hidden area under the center console and an underfloor bin in the cargo bay. Visibility was generally good, though the third row felt slightly enclosed. The Z71 model had a power-operated driver's seat, but the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler's high ground clearance and narrow door openings made entry and exit challenging. The Sport S trim's cloth upholstery was comfortable, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel available. Rear-seat legroom was adequate, but taller passengers needed to be cautious of plastic hooks on the front seatbacks. Storage space was limited, with small items often ending up in cupholders. Cargo access was cumbersome, requiring the tailgate and rear window to be opened separately. The Wrangler offered 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, replacing the previous 8-inch screen. The system was responsive, with simple menus and an 11-inch digital instrument display. It ran on Google-based software, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless charging pad was included, along with physical controls for volume and HVAC functions. The Traverse also offered Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, which expanded its functionality to single-lane roadways.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler's Uconnect 5 infotainment system included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Sport S model had a standard eight-speaker stereo, with a nine-speaker Alpine system optional. Jeep Connect provided access to a Wi-Fi hotspot and off-road navigation capabilities. The touchscreen remained bright and easy to use, even with the roof panels removed. The Convenience Group pack added a 7-inch digital display, passive entry, and remote engine starting. Rear parking sensors were available in the Active Safety Group package.

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

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler added side curtain airbags for the front and rear seats. Advanced driver assistance systems were optional, with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert available on most trims. Forward collision warning with automatic braking was standard on the Sahara trim. The Wrangler received a four-star frontal-impact rating and a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA. The IIHS rated it Good for side-impact protection but Marginal for small overlap frontal-impact tests.