2024 Kia EV9 vs 2025 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Kia EV9 presented a bold new direction for Kia's electric vehicles, with a design that was both familiar and futuristic. Its exterior maintained the recognizable Kia SUV aesthetic but introduced a more angular, digital-clock-inspired look. The lighting features were particularly striking, with the "Star Map" daytime running lights and the "Digital Tiger Face" grille adding a modern touch. The interior of the EV9 felt spacious and airy, enhanced by a light gray two-tone color scheme and dual sunroofs. The seats were comfortable, with power-adjustable options and durable SynTex surfaces, making the cabin both stylish and practical.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Traverse continued Chevrolet's trend of attractive SUV designs, both inside and out. The Traverse's interior featured digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system, though it was let down by the use of hard, glossy plastics and artificial leather that didn't quite mimic the real thing. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road adventures, came with features like a panoramic sunroof and enhanced driving packages, but the materials used in the cabin didn't match the vehicle's price point. Despite these drawbacks, the Traverse offered a spacious and comfortable interior, especially with its eight-passenger seating capacity.

The 2024 Kia EV9 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the Light trim's single motor, rear-wheel-drive setup producing 215 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 230 miles. The Light Long Range model, with a larger 99.8-kWh battery, provided a range of 304 miles but slightly reduced horsepower to 201. The higher trims, including the Wind and Land, featured dual-motor all-wheel-drive systems with 379 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, offering 280 miles of range. The GT-Line trim prioritized performance with 516 lb-ft of torque and a range of 270 miles. The EV9's driving experience was smooth and refined, with adjustable regenerative braking and fast charging capabilities.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse, powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivered 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. The engine's exhaust note was less than pleasing, but it provided ample power for both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road use, featured a higher ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. The Traverse's driving modes included Tow/Haul, Normal, and Sport, though the vehicle's size and suspension made it feel less sporty. The Z71's off-road capabilities were commendable, and its suspension handled rough terrain well, but the overall driving experience was more suited to daily commuting.

The 2024 Kia EV9 stood out with its spacious third row, offering 39.5 inches of headroom and up to 32.0 inches of legroom, accommodating seven passengers. Cargo space was competitive, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 81.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. The interior featured a floating center console and ample storage, though the front lacked flat surfaces. Second-row passengers in higher trims enjoyed additional storage options.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted significant interior volume, with a wide cabin and eight-passenger seating capacity. The front seats were comfortable, with power adjustments and heating features. The second-row captain's chairs provided good support, but the lack of window shades and third-row USB ports was a drawback. Cargo space was generous, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 97.6 cubic feet. However, folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats, which could be inconvenient.

The 2024 Kia EV9 featured a three-screen curved display, including a 12.3-inch driver information display, a 5-inch climate display, and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with higher trims offering a premium audio system. The EV9's connectedness was a highlight, with over-the-air updates and the Kia Connect store allowing for future upgrades and customization.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its standard 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Google Built-in, Alexa compatibility, and wireless smartphone integration. The user interface was intuitive, and Google Assistant was effective. The Traverse also offered an 11-inch digital instrumentation panel with customizable views. Optional features included a digital rearview mirror and a surround-view camera system, enhancing the vehicle's technology offerings.

The 2024 Kia EV9 came with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and collision avoidance features. While not yet rated by U.S. safety organizations, it received the highest rating from Euro NCAP.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse offered a robust set of standard safety features, 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 included Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid. The Traverse received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from IIHS.