2024 Chevrolet Trax vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax underwent a significant transformation, shedding its previous image to emerge as a more stylish and modern vehicle. The design team embraced a "longer, lower, wider" philosophy, resulting in a vehicle that was 11 inches longer, four inches lower, and two inches wider than its predecessor. This redesign incorporated elements from the midsize Chevy Blazer, such as a prominent grille and distinctive body lines, giving the Trax a more commanding presence. The base Trax LS featured 17-inch steel wheels, while higher trims offered 18-inch and 19-inch aluminum options. The interior, though primarily plastic, included thoughtful design elements like a freestanding touchscreen and large air vents, enhancing its appeal.

In contrast, the 2024 BMW X5 retained its classic styling, which had aged gracefully since its last redesign in 2019. However, the M Sport treatment divided opinions, giving the X5 a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch wheels, adding to its visual appeal. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option, and a turbocharged V8 engine. The interior received a modern update with the BMW Curved Display, reducing physical controls while maintaining high-quality materials and construction. The X5's design and features reflected its status as a luxury SUV, offering a blend of performance and sophistication.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax featured a new 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. While power was slightly reduced compared to the previous model, the Trax managed to improve its 0-60 mph time by about a second. The engine's flat torque curve provided strong acceleration, and turbo lag was minimal. The Trax was available only with front-wheel drive, differentiating it from the all-wheel-drive Trailblazer. Its handling was tuned to be more car-like, offering a planted feel and nimble handling, although it still exhibited some body roll. The Trax exceeded expectations in terms of refinement, with active noise cancellation and decent ride quality.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV boasted a powerful electric motor integrated into its eight-speed automatic transmission, along with a 19.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This setup allowed for 38 miles of electric-only driving and a combined fuel economy of 22 mpg. The xDrive50e produced 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV excelled in both electric and hybrid modes, offering impressive efficiency and performance. Equipped with adaptive damping air suspension, the X5 delivered a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent handling characteristics. The PHEV's ability to recharge its battery during driving added to its appeal, making it a standout choice in the X5 lineup.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax offered increased rear-seat legroom, with a slight improvement in front-seat legroom. However, headroom in the second row decreased by 0.7 inches, and shoulder room was reduced. The Trax's interior space was comparable to its rivals, with the most rear-seat legroom among them. The driving position was more car-like, providing excellent outward visibility. Cargo space increased to 25.6 cubic feet with the rear seats in place and 54.1 cubic feet with them folded, offering slightly more room than competitors like the Nissan Kicks and Hyundai Venue.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e provided ample space for five passengers in two rows, with a cargo area of 33.1 cubic feet, expandable to 71.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The split liftgate design offered a convenient seating area but required stretching to access items deep in the cargo hold. The X5 featured standard Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, with optional 20-way power-adjustable multi-contour front seats offering heating and ventilation. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed comfort and a panoramic sunroof, while the absence of a third-row seat was notable. The X5's interior was well-appointed, catering to luxury SUV enthusiasts.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax saw significant infotainment upgrades, with an 8-inch touchscreen standard on lower trims and an 11-inch touchscreen with an 8-inch digital instrument cluster on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with wireless phone charging, were available for the first time. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with crisp graphics and a logical menu layout. The optional digital instrument cluster provided additional functionality, and multiple USB ports were available for front and rear passengers.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with 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 system included a cloud-based navigation system and an Intelligent Personal Assistant, although its performance was inconsistent. The optional Harman Kardon sound system delivered excellent audio quality. The available head-up display and augmented video function for navigation added to the X5's technological appeal, despite some challenges with voice recognition.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax's crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were unavailable at the time of publication. However, it offered a range of standard driver-assist features, including automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, lane-keep assist, and more. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Trax also featured the Teen Driver system, enhancing safety for young drivers.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving assistance system, which required deliberate activation. It performed well in specific conditions but exhibited some errant braking episodes. The X5's driver aids operated subtly, enhancing the driving experience. The IIHS awarded the X5 high ratings, although lower headlight ratings prevented it from earning a safety award. The NHTSA gave the X5 an overall crash-test rating of four stars.