2024 Mazda CX-90 vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 was a testament to Mazda's ambition to edge closer to luxury brands. It borrowed the elegant design language from its smaller siblings, the CX-30 and CX-5, and expanded it into a more imposing form. The SUV's exterior was marked by a large grille, wide-set front end, and substantial wheels, all of which contributed to its commanding presence. Inside, the top-tier models of the CX-90 offered an interior that could rival luxury competitors, featuring brown suede upholstery, wood inlays, and matte black plastic accents. Despite the range of trims, all models benefited from Mazda's stylish design and comfortable layout.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered a more rugged appeal, especially with the introduction of the Z71 trim aimed at moderate off-roading. The Traverse's design was practical, with a focus on functionality and space. The Z71 model, which was the focus of our test drive, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and an Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. Inside, the Traverse provided a Jet Black interior with "Torch Red" accents, and while synthetic leather seating was optional, the standard cloth seats were comfortable and breathable. The Traverse's design was more about practicality and utility, with features like Smart Slide second-row seats and a power-folding third row enhancing its usability.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 introduced two new powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid option and a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. The base turbo I6 delivered 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, while the upgraded Turbo S version offered 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. All models came with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The CX-90's driving modes, including Normal, Sport, and Off-Road, allowed for varied driving experiences, with Sport mode enhancing the engine's roar and performance. The PHEV model combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a 17.8-kWh battery, producing 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an all-electric range of 26 miles.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive was optional, with the Z71 trim featuring a more advanced dual-clutch system. The Traverse's acceleration and passing power were commendable, and the exhaust note added a pleasant growl during acceleration. The steering was adequate for most driving conditions, and the ride quality was impressive, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. The Traverse's fuel economy ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway, depending on the drivetrain configuration.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 offered various seating configurations, with lower trims accommodating up to eight passengers and higher trims featuring captain's chairs for a seven-seat layout. The Turbo S models had a two-seat third row, providing slightly more cargo space. The CX-90's cargo capacity ranged from 14.9 to 75.2 cubic feet, depending on the seating arrangement. While the CX-90 improved on the CX-9's space, it still fell short compared to some competitors. However, the interior was well-appointed with clever storage solutions and high-quality materials.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse provided seating for eight in the base LS model, with higher trims offering seven seats with standard captain's chairs. The Smart Slide second-row seats and power-folding third row enhanced accessibility and cargo flexibility. The Traverse's cargo space was generous, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 96 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, including a hidden storage area under the center console and an underfloor storage bin in the cargo bay. Visibility was generally good, though the third row had limited outward views.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 focused on minimizing distractions with its Mazda Connect infotainment system, which used a rotary control knob and hard buttons instead of a touchscreen. While the intention was to enhance safety, the system's quirks could be distracting. However, the CX-90 offered personalization software with facial recognition for driver settings and standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with touchscreen controls for these systems in higher trims.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a significant upgrade with 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 Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Traverse retained physical controls for volume and HVAC functions, though some controls, like headlight functions, were buried in the infotainment system. The Traverse also introduced Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, expanding its functionality to single-lane roadways.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 came standard with i-Activsense, Mazda's suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and more. While crash test ratings were not yet available, the CX-90 was expected to perform well based on the CX-9's accolades.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered a comprehensive range of driver aids at no extra cost, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and more. Although crash test ratings were pending, the Traverse's safety features provided peace of mind during our test drive.