2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2023 Subaru Outback

The 2023 Subaru Outback underwent a facelift, featuring a new front end with redesigned LED headlights, a restyled grille, and a revised bumper with dark gray vertical cladding. This design gave the Outback an aggressive appearance, further enhanced by a jutting simulated skid plate, fog lights in oversized housings, and asymmetrical wheel arch trim reminiscent of the Wilderness model. The Outback's appeal was subjective, with darker paint colours helping to tone down the bold design. The Onyx Edition, with its black wheels and trim, complemented the cladding well. The Outback was available in seven trims, with the Onyx Edition priced at $38,695 in Canada. The Limited trim, tested in Cosmic Blue with Java Brown Nappa leather, offered a cohesive and upscale interior, despite some hard plastic elements. The infotainment screen and gloss black trim were prone to dust and smudges, but the overall cabin design was appealing.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse, available in LT, Z71, and RS trims in Canada, introduced the Z71 for moderate off-roading. The Z71, tested extensively, was not designed for extreme off-roading but handled rugged terrain well. Competing with models like the Kia Telluride and Ford Explorer, the Traverse LT started at $50,833, with the RS reaching $65,733. The Z71, priced at $56,833, featured gloss black 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. The Jet Black interior with "Torch Red" accents was lively, though more colour options would have been appreciated. The standard cloth seats were comfortable, with synthetic leather available for an additional cost. The Traverse's design and features made it a competitive choice in its segment.

The 2023 Subaru Outback featured horizontally opposed engines, known for their flat design and characteristic grumble. The standard 2.5-litre engine produced 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, but the 1,705-kilogram vehicle felt underpowered, especially during passing and climbing. The CVT managed lower speeds well, but the engine's fuel efficiency was disappointing, with a real-world return of 9.2 L/100 km compared to the expected 8.3 L/100 km. The Outback XT, with a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine, offered 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, providing better performance at a higher cost. The Outback's AWD system and X-Mode traction system enhanced its off-road capabilities, while its suspension provided a firm yet comfortable ride. Despite its handling prowess, the standard engine's lack of power was a drawback.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-hp V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offered more power and torque than its predecessor. AWD was standard, with the Z71 featuring a dual-clutch system for better grip. The Traverse's acceleration and passing power were satisfactory, with a pleasant exhaust growl. The steering was adequate, though the vehicle's length was noticeable. The ride quality was excellent, even with all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. The brakes provided controlled stops, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. Fuel economy was rated at 12.4 L/100 km in the city, 9.9 on the highway, and 11.3 combined.

The 2023 Subaru Outback prioritized utility with features like a roof rack and flat door sills. The Limited trim offered a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat and an eight-way power-adjustable passenger seat, both heated, with Nappa leather upholstery. The rear seats were also heated, providing comfort in cold climates. The Outback's interior was spacious, accommodating two adults and two teens comfortably on long trips. Cargo space was generous, with 923 litres behind the back seat and 2,141 litres with the seats folded. The roof rack and door sills were practical for loading and accessing the roof. However, more storage space in the cabin would have been beneficial.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the LT and Z71 trims, with the RS featuring second-row captain's chairs for seven-passenger capacity. The Smart Slide second-row seats and power-folding third row enhanced accessibility and cargo capacity. The Autosense power liftgate was convenient for loading. Cargo volume was 648 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,764 litres with seats folded. Storage options included a hidden area under the centre console and an underfloor bin in the cargo bay. Visibility was generally good, though the third row felt slightly enclosed. The Z71's power-operated driver's seat was easy to adjust, but the manual passenger seat controls were surprising at the price point.

The 2023 Subaru Outback, except for the Base trim, featured an 11.6-inch Starlink touchscreen infotainment system with physical controls for volume and climate functions. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from the Touring trim upwards. The Starlink system was improved but still had confusing graphics and icons. The voice recognition system was limited, making smartphone connectivity essential. Additional technologies included a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree front-view camera, though a surround-view camera was unavailable.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, standard across all models, with quick response times and easy navigation. An 11-inch digital instrument display provided customizable information. The system ran on Google-based software, offering intuitive voice commands and wireless smartphone connectivity. The wireless charging pad was effective, and physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were appreciated. The Super Cruise hands-free driving aid was available, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads. However, the placement of headlight controls within the infotainment system was inconvenient.

The 2023 Subaru Outback featured new EyeSight cameras and an electronic brake booster, earning top safety marks from the IIHS. EyeSight included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. The system added Automatic Emergency Steering for obstacle avoidance. The Outback's safety features were effective, though the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist felt artificial. The rear automatic braking system was incompatible with some driveways, requiring manual deactivation.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review. However, it offered a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and more. These features provided peace of mind, though they were not tested during the review period.