2025 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2025 BMW X3

The 2025 BMW X3 presented a seductive appearance for a two-box SUV, with its redesigned features capturing attention. Its oversized grille and aerodynamically honed flanks contributed to its athletic look, emphasized by the long hood and tapering greenhouse. The test model, adorned in Arctic Race Blue paint, paired well with machined surface wheels and gloss black M Sport details. Inside, the cabin offered quality materials in expected areas, though some plastic elements revealed its price point. The X3 was available in 30 xDrive and M50 xDrive models, with prices ranging from $51,125 to $65,875, making it a competitive option against rivals like the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Traverse showcased a commendable exterior design, consistent with Chevrolet's recent SUV lineup. The interior featured digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system, though the quality of materials, such as hard plastic and Evotex artificial leather, left room for improvement. The Traverse was available in LT, Z71, High Country, and RS trims, with base prices from $41,095 to $55,495. Our test vehicle, a Z71 spec, included features like Radiant Red paint and a panoramic sunroof, bringing the MSRP to $55,900. Despite its stylish appearance, the Traverse's material quality did not match its price tag.

The 2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Despite its 4,176-pound weight, the X3 achieved a zero-to-60 mph time of six seconds, aided by an eight-speed automatic transmission and xDrive AWD system. The 48-volt mild-hybrid system enhanced responsiveness and fuel efficiency, though our test vehicle averaged 24.2 mpg, below the EPA rating of 29 mpg. The M50 xDrive variant offered a more powerful 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 393 hp, achieving 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The X3's sport-tuned suspension and performance tires provided an engaging driving experience, though the ride quality on imperfect roads was less comfortable.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse, equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivered 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. In FWD mode, it exhibited torque steer, but engaging AWD improved acceleration and control. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road use, featured an off-road suspension, all-terrain tires, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. It handled trails and rough terrain effectively, though its size was noticeable on narrow roads. The Traverse's driving modes included Tow/Haul, Normal, and Sport, though it lacked a sporty feel. The test vehicle achieved 21.5 mpg, slightly above the EPA estimate of 21 mpg.

The 2025 BMW X3 offered a spacious interior with a power-adjustable driver's seat providing a sports car-like view. The dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Front seats were comfortable, with Veganza artificial leather and optional ventilation. However, rear seats were less comfortable, with limited legroom and hard front seat-back panels. The cargo area provided 31.5 cubic feet of space, with additional storage under the load floor and a 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat for versatility.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted significant interior volume, with a wide cabin accommodating eight passengers. The Z71 trim featured heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort during cold weather. Second-row captain's chairs offered good support, though the lack of side window shades was a drawback. The third row provided adequate comfort but limited visibility and lacked USB charging ports. The Traverse offered 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 97.6 cubic feet with the second row folded. However, folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats, complicating the process.

The 2025 BMW X3 featured the BMW Curved Display with iDrive 9 software, offering a Quick Select user experience. However, creating profiles and accessing BMW Digital Services proved challenging during testing. The system occasionally froze, and the default Guest profile lacked access to certain features. Despite these issues, wireless Apple CarPlay worked flawlessly. The navigation system, with augmented video, provided accurate directions. While the infotainment experience was frustrating, it may have been unique to the test vehicle or user error.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its standard 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Google Built-in, Google Maps, and Google Assistant. It also offered Alexa compatibility, OnStar services, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with SiriusXM 360L, were standard. The user interface was intuitive, and Google Assistant responded accurately to voice commands. The climate system controls were conveniently located, and the 11-inch digital instrumentation panel offered customizable views. Optional features included a digital rearview mirror and a high-definition surround-view camera system, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2025 BMW X3 came equipped with the Active Driving Assistant suite, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and active blind-spot monitoring. The Premium Package added adaptive cruise control and Steering Assistant technology. The Parking Assistant Professional Package offered semi-automated parking tech, while the Driving Assistant Professional Package included hands-free Traffic Jam Assistant and Lane Change Assistant. The X3 earned a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four-star ratings for frontal-impact crash tests.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse featured a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and active blind-spot monitoring. 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 assist system, 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.