2024 Lincoln Nautilus vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus presented a sophisticated and streamlined exterior, available in Premiere, Reserve, or Black Label trims. Its design featured a new grille with LED lighting extending through it, illuminating the Lincoln star logo, creating a stunning visual effect. The rear mirrored this horizontal aesthetic with a full-width animated LED light bar and dual exhaust ports. The interior was equally impressive, highlighted by a full-width screen and high-quality materials like open-pore wood and fine leather. The Jet Appearance Package offered additional customization with two-tone paint and black exterior trim.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available in four trims: LS, LT, Z71, and RS, with the Z71 being a new addition for moderate off-roading. The Traverse's design was practical, with the Z71 model featuring gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. The interior of the Z71 model was accented with "Torch Red" highlights, and while synthetic leather seating was optional, the standard cloth seats provided comfort and breathability. The Traverse's design focused on functionality, with features like Smart Slide second-row seats and a power-folding third row enhancing its practicality.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus came standard with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. For an additional $1,500, buyers could opt for a hybrid setup, boosting power to 310 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, with an EPA estimated 30 mpg combined. The hybrid also offered a range of over 600 miles. The Nautilus featured all-wheel drive and five drive modes, with the adaptive suspension enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive was optional, with the Z71 trim featuring a more advanced system. The Traverse provided satisfactory acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust growl. The ride quality was commendable, even with all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway, depending on the trim and drivetrain.

The Lincoln Nautilus offered power-adjustable, heated, and cooled front seats across all trims, with the Black Label model featuring 24-way Perfect Position front seats with massage and extended heating functions. Rear passengers enjoyed 43 inches of legroom, and the Rejuvenate feature combined massage, lighting, and screen images for relaxation. Cargo space was 36 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 71 cubic feet with seats folded, though seating was limited to five.

The Chevrolet Traverse provided seating for eight in the base LS model, with second-row captain’s chairs available in higher trims. The Z71 and RS trims were seven-seaters, with Smart Slide second-row seats and a power-folding third row enhancing accessibility and cargo capacity. Cargo volume was 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96 cubic feet with seats folded. The Traverse featured numerous storage options, including a hidden storage area under the center console and an underfloor storage bin in the cargo bay.

The Lincoln Nautilus boasted a 48-inch curved display, with a digital dash and customizable sections for various information. An 11.1-inch touchscreen handled infotainment duties, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The inclusion of Google Maps and Alexa Built-in added convenience, though some controls were distracting due to their placement in menus. Wireless charging and USB ports were standard throughout the cabin.

The Chevrolet Traverse featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, complemented by an 11-inch digital instrument display. The system ran on Google-based software, offering intuitive voice commands and wireless smartphone connectivity. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were appreciated, though some controls were less conveniently placed. The Traverse introduced Super Cruise hands-free driving aid, expanding its functionality to single-lane roadways.

The Lincoln Nautilus included the Lincoln CoPilot 360 suite of ADAS features, with Blue Cruise 1.2 technology available on all trims. Blue Cruise combined adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, with automatic lane-change assist and In-Lane Repositioning. The 2024 Nautilus had not been rated by NHTSA, but the 2023 model received high scores for crash protection.

The Chevrolet Traverse offered a comprehensive range of driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and more. While official crash test ratings were pending, the Traverse's safety features provided reassurance during our test drive.