2025 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was available in three variants: the 3.3 Turbo, the 3.3 Turbo S, and the PHEV. Trim levels ranged from Select to Premium Plus, with pricing between $39,575 and $59,480. The test vehicle, a 3.3 Turbo with Premium Plus trim and Soul Red paint, had an MSRP of $51,450. Its exterior boasted lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels, giving it a luxury SUV appearance. The sculptural sheet metal and cabin placement over the rear axle contributed to its athletic look. Inside, the CX-90 featured polished metallic trim, Nappa leather, and clearly marked switchgear, creating an upscale ambiance despite some materials reflecting its competitive price.

However, the CX-90's design had ergonomic issues, such as a confusing electronic shifter and a counterintuitive climate panel. Mazda's reluctance to offer touchscreen operation for its infotainment system was also noted. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-90 exuded sophistication compared to other midsize three-row crossover SUVs. Its interior, while elegant, had some practical shortcomings, but overall, it provided a premium feel.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its exterior styling, continuing Chevrolet's trend of attractive SUV designs. Inside, digital instrumentation, Google-based infotainment systems, and appealing layouts were standard. However, the quality of materials, particularly the hard, glossy plastic and Evotex artificial leather, fell short of expectations for a vehicle in this price range. The Traverse offered trims like LT, Z71, High Country, and RS, with base prices from $41,095 to $55,495. The test vehicle, a Z71 spec, featured Radiant Red paint, a panoramic sunroof, and additional packages, bringing the MSRP to $55,900.

The Traverse Z71, designed for off-road adventures, had unique 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, a skid plate, and red tow hooks. It also featured a Twin Clutch AWD system, Terrain driving mode, and hill descent control. While not suitable for serious off-roading, it handled trails with ease. The Z71's suspension and tires provided a smoother ride on rough pavement, making it a practical choice for daily driving. Despite its size, the Traverse offered sound handling and a comfortable ride, though the steering lacked road feel.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's performance was a mixed bag. Its turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine, used in both the CX-90 and CX-70, produced 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque in the 3.3 Turbo models. The 3.3 Turbo S variant delivered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft, or 340 hp with premium gas. Power was channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system, which favored the rear wheels for improved dynamics. The CX-90 offered driving modes like Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. Its ground clearance was 8.1 inches, and it featured hill descent control.

Despite these promising specs, the CX-90's drivetrain lacked refinement. The engine and transmission behavior were unpredictable when cold, leading to unwanted surges and acceleration. Noise and impact harshness were noticeable, detracting from the upscale impression. Vibrations in the second-row seats were also an issue. However, the CX-90 excelled in ride and handling, with a firm suspension that provided excellent road feedback. Switching between driving modes, particularly from Sport to Normal, improved the driving experience.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. While the engine's exhaust note was unappealing, it delivered ample power, causing front-wheel spin and torque steer in FWD mode. Engaging AWD improved acceleration and control. The Traverse Z71, designed for off-road use, had 7.7 inches of ground clearance, unique wheels, and a more capable AWD system. It handled trails with ease, and its suspension absorbed rough terrain effectively.

The Traverse's driving modes included Tow/Haul, Normal, and Sport, though it didn't offer a sporty experience. The Z71 felt large on narrow roads, and its dirt-friendly tires contributed to a bouncy ride. However, the all-terrain tires provided good grip and minimal noise. The Traverse's EPA rating was 21 mpg combined, and it achieved 21.5 mpg during testing. Overall, the Traverse offered a comfortable ride and sound handling, though it lacked road feel through the steering wheel.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior had its challenges. Despite a cool summer, the black interior struggled to cool down quickly, raising concerns about its climate control system. The 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus trim featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the front-seat ventilation was less effective than expected. The panoramic sunroof provided natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed comfortable seating with adjustable armrests and window shades. The third row was best suited for children, as space was limited.

Storage space in the CX-90 was limited, with a smartphone charging tray, a shallow bin under the center armrest, and small door panel storage. The hands-free power liftgate revealed 14.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 40 cubic feet with the third row folded. Maximum cargo volume was 74.2 cubic feet, which was small for the segment.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse offered ample interior space, particularly in terms of width. Front-seat occupants enjoyed a spacious cabin with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The Z71's heated front seats and steering wheel were effective during cold weather. The Traverse's Evotex artificial leather provided comfort, though it wasn't genuine leather. With a second-row bench seat, the Traverse accommodated eight passengers, and its width made it one of the most accommodating vehicles in its class.

The second-row captain's chairs offered good comfort, though the Z71 lacked side window shades. The third row provided adequate comfort, but the rear windows limited visibility. Storage space was commendable, with 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 56.6 cubic feet with the third row folded. Maximum cargo volume was 97.6 cubic feet. However, folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats, which could be inconvenient.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. While the dashboard lacked a high-tech look, the technology was present. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only when using wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, requiring the use of a knob and buttons for the native Mazda Connect platform. The voice recognition system was hit-and-miss, and a new Google Built-in infotainment system was expected in future models.

The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bose audio system, providing a rewarding listening experience. Mazda's Active Driving Display, a head-up display, offered helpful data and blind-spot alerts. Overall, the CX-90's technology was functional but could benefit from updates.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in, offering Google Maps navigation, Google Assistant voice recognition, and access to various apps. It also included Alexa compatibility, OnStar connected services, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio.

The Traverse's technology was impressive, with a user-friendly interface and effective Google Assistant. The lack of a tuning knob was a minor drawback, but steering wheel controls compensated for it. Climate system functions were accessible via the touchscreen, with separate knobs for temperature adjustment. An 11-inch digital instrumentation panel offered customizable views, and the test vehicle featured a camera-based digital rearview mirror and a high-definition surround-view camera system.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 excelled in safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests for the PHEV model. Gas-only models received four-star ratings in frontal-impact testing. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added advanced features like steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system.

The CX-90's driver aids generally met expectations, though the speed reduction feature in curves was irritating. The lane-keeping technologies were effective, and the blind-spot monitoring system provided an extra layer of safety. However, the audible warning systems could be overwhelming.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a comprehensive list of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, active blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional features included automatic high-beam headlights, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and a Safety Alert Seat.

The test vehicle's Driver Confidence Package added a high-definition surround-view camera system, traffic sign recognition, and rear pedestrian alert. The Enhanced Driving Package included Super Cruise, a hands-free driving assist system, and remote-parking technology. Super Cruise was effective, though it had occasional issues on certain roads. The Traverse received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS.