2025 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 presented itself as a more rugged alternative to the CX-5, with dimensions that were notably larger and a design that emphasized its broad-shouldered proportions. It featured square wheel arches and faux air vents, giving it a fresh look compared to the older CX-5 model. The CX-50 was available in eight trim levels, with the 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition standing out for its active-lifestyle image, equipped with all-terrain tires and a black hood graphic. Despite its rugged appearance, the CX-50 did not enhance off-road capabilities beyond other trims, but it did offer an earthy color palette and a well-designed interior with impressive material quality for a non-luxury brand. However, the CX-50's attempt to position itself as an upscale vehicle was still a work in progress, with some features like manually-adjustable front seats on base models reminding consumers of Mazda's traditional market position.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse, on the other hand, was praised for its exterior styling and interior design, featuring digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system. However, the quality of materials, such as hard, glossy plastics and Evotex artificial leather, left much to be desired, especially for a vehicle in its price range. The Traverse was available in trims like LT, Z71, High Country, and RS, with the Z71 being the off-road version. It came with features like a panoramic sunroof and various driving packages, but the overall impression was marred by the lack of quality materials. Despite this, the Traverse offered a spacious interior and a range of features that made it a competitive option in its segment.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbocharged version delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on 93-octane gasoline. All models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, along with driving modes like Normal, Sport, and Off-road. Turbo models also offered a Towing mode, increasing towing capacity to 3,500 pounds. While the CX-50 shared powertrains with the CX-5, it offered a different driving experience, focusing more on comfort than sporty dynamics. The Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and limited grip, but the CX-50 remained well-mannered overall.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. The engine's exhaust note was not particularly pleasant, but it provided ample power, especially with all-wheel drive engaged. The Traverse Z71, designed for off-road use, offered 7.7 inches of ground clearance and came with features like all-terrain tires, a skid plate, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. The Z71 handled trails and rough terrain well, with its suspension and tires providing a smooth ride even on poorly maintained roads. The Traverse's driving modes included Tow/Haul, Normal, and Sport, but the vehicle felt large and less sporty, with touchy brakes and limited road feel through the steering wheel. The Z71 achieved an EPA-rated 21 mpg in combined driving, slightly exceeding expectations during testing.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom in both rows. It provided 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 56.3 cubic feet with them folded, trailing competitors in cargo capacity. The available power liftgate improved cargo access, but the area wasn't ideal for bulky items. The interior layout was sensible, with adequate storage space and a substantial shifter and rotary infotainment controller on the center console.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted significant interior volume, particularly in width, providing ample space for front-seat occupants. The Z71's heated front seats and steering wheel added comfort during cold weather. With a second-row bench seat, the Traverse accommodated eight passengers, and its width made it one of the most accommodating in its class. The third row offered enough comfort for adults, but lacked a view and USB charging ports. The Traverse provided 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 97.6 cubic feet with all seats folded. However, folding the third row required adjusting the second row, complicating the process.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary controller and buttons, rather than a touchscreen. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay, but Android Auto required a cable. Higher trims included wireless phone charging, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The system's interface felt dated, but it was straightforward for those who preferred simplicity over excessive tech.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse featured a standout 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play Store access. It also supported Alexa, OnStar, and a Wi-Fi hotspot, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system's user interface was intuitive, and Google Assistant was highly responsive. The Traverse also had an 11-inch digital instrumentation panel with customizable views and a camera-based digital rearview mirror for enhanced visibility.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention tech. However, it received lower scores for nighttime pedestrian detection and standard headlights. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star frontal crash-test rating and a four-star rollover rating. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, with optional features like rear automatic braking and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a comprehensive suite of 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, while the Enhanced Driving Package offered Super Cruise hands-free driving and remote-parking technology. The Traverse received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS.