2025 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a sophisticated exterior design that many considered more premium than its non-European competitors. Its LED headlights and taillights, along with an illuminated grille light line on the SEL R-Line, added to its upscale appearance. The model name was prominently displayed in all-caps at the rear, complementing the classic Volkswagen badge. However, the color options were limited, especially for the base trim, which only offered grayscale colors. The interior featured a range of materials and configurations, with higher trims offering leather upholstery and additional amenities like a panoramic sunroof and heated steering wheel.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Traverse showcased a bold exterior design that was consistent with Chevrolet's SUV lineup. The interior was equipped with digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system, providing a modern and appealing layout. However, the quality of materials, such as the hard plastic and Evotex artificial leather, did not match the premium feel suggested by its design. The Traverse offered a range of trims, with the Z71 spec providing off-road capabilities and additional features like a panoramic sunroof and enhanced driving packages.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered front-wheel drive as standard, with an optional 4Motion all-wheel drive for an additional $1,500 on lower trims. The AWD version included a larger fuel tank, though it slightly reduced fuel economy. The Tiguan's driving experience was mixed, with inconsistent power delivery and touchy pedals, but it offered good visibility and handling, making it feel maneuverable for its size.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. It provided strong acceleration, especially with the AWD engaged, which improved control and reduced torque steer. The Z71 trim was designed for off-road use, with increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. The Traverse offered various driving modes, including Off-Road and Tow/Haul, but its size made it feel cumbersome on narrow roads. Despite this, it achieved an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined, slightly exceeding expectations during testing.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan offered a versatile interior with seating for five in AWD models and seven in FWD versions. The two-row configuration provided 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The three-row version had reduced cargo capacity but maintained decent passenger space. The Tiguan's compact size made it one of the few in its class to offer a third row, though it was tight for adults.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse excelled in interior space, offering eight-passenger seating with a second-row bench or captain's chairs. Its width provided ample room for passengers, though the third row lacked a view due to window design. The Traverse offered 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 seats, which could be inconvenient.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan featured haptic touch slider buttons for climate control, which were responsive and easy to use. The infotainment system had an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the graphics were monochromatic. The Digital Cockpit System was standard, with the SEL R-Line offering a fully configurable 10.25-inch display. The nine-speaker Fender Premium Audio System was a highlight for audiophiles.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a 17.7-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and access to various apps. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a Wi-Fi hotspot. The interface was user-friendly, though it lacked a tuning knob. The Traverse also featured an 11-inch digital instrumentation panel with multiple views and a camera-based digital rearview mirror for enhanced visibility.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan earned a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, and its safety features improved for 2024 with the standard IQ.DRIVE suite. This included adaptive cruise control, active blind-spot monitoring, and semi-autonomous highway driving capabilities. Additional features like Park Distance Control were available on higher trims, though some elements were intrusive.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a comprehensive list 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. The Enhanced Driving Package offered Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, 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.