2025 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available in three trims in Canada: LT, Z71, and RS. The Z71 was a new addition, designed for those seeking a three-row SUV with moderate off-roading capabilities. Chevrolet emphasized that the Z71 was not intended to compete with hardcore off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco. Instead, it was engineered to handle reasonably rugged terrain, though not extreme trails. Pricing for the Traverse was competitive, with the LT starting at $50,833 and the RS reaching $65,733. The Z71 model, priced at $56,833, featured 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. Inside, the Jet Black interior was accented with "Torch Red" highlights, and while synthetic leather seating was optional, the standard cloth seats were comfortable and breathable.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe, available in XRT, Luxury, and Ultimate Calligraphy trims, debuted its fifth generation in 2024. The SUV featured a chunky, boxy design with a long wheelbase, flat hood, and pixelated H-shaped LED headlamps. While the front design was cohesive, the rear proportions were less balanced, with taillights positioned lower than ideal. Each trim had specific wheels, ranging from 18 to 21 inches. The XRT trim added chrome and black exterior accents and black roof rails. Inside, the Santa Fe offered seating for seven, except for the Ultimate Calligraphy trim, which featured captain's chairs. The interior had a good fit and finish, though some squeaks were noted. The HVAC system included physical dials, but fan speed buttons were less intuitive.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower 3.6-litre V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offered 18 more horsepower and 50 more lb-ft of torque than the V6. All-wheel drive was standard across all trims in Canada, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced dual-clutch system. The Traverse provided acceptable acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust growl during acceleration. The steering was adequate, though the vehicle's 5,200 mm length was noticeable. The ride was smooth, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. The brakes were progressive, 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 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe featured a standard 2.5-litre turbocharged engine with 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive was standard, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Santa Fe Hybrid offered a 1.6-litre engine and electric motor, producing 231 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. The Santa Fe handled corners well, with firm brakes and responsive steering, though turbo lag was noticeable. The gear selector, located on a stalk, required some adjustment. The XRT trim included 30-inch all-terrain tires and 21.2 cm of ground clearance, improving off-road geometry. While capable on dirt roads, the Santa Fe was not suited for rugged terrain.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the LT and Z71 trims, while the RS trim featured second-row captain's chairs, reducing capacity to seven. The Smart Slide second-row seats were easy to use, and a power-folding third row was available on lower trims and standard on the RS. Cargo volume was 648 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,764 litres with the second and third rows folded. The cabin had numerous storage options, including a hidden area under the centre console and an underfloor storage bin in the cargo bay. Visibility was generally good, though the third row had limited views. The Z71 had a power-operated driver's seat, but the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT trim included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a sunroof, and a 115-volt outlet. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim added heated second-row seats, ventilated front seats, and a premium audio system. The Santa Fe offered the most third-row legroom in its class, with adjustable second-row seats. Cargo space was 413 litres with all seats up, expanding to 1,148 litres with the third row folded and 2,267 litres with the second row down. The liftgate width increased to 127.5 cm, and the height was 81 cm, facilitating loading. Most trims could tow 1,587 kg, with the XRT capable of 2,040 kg.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, replacing the previous 8-inch screen. The system was responsive, with simple menus and an 11-inch digital instrument display. The Google-based software included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless charging pad was effective, and physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were appreciated. Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, was available for the first time, expanding its functionality to over 1.2 million km of roads by 2025.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe had a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital gauge cluster, with navigation available on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with multiple USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad. The digital key feature allowed phone or Apple Watch use for unlocking and starting the car. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim offered a digital rearview mirror and head-up display. Bluelink app connectivity provided remote climate control and alerts, with over-the-air updates ensuring the latest software.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of testing. However, it included a range of driver aids, such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. A surround-view parking camera and rear pedestrian alert were also standard.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offered numerous standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and forward collision avoidance assist. Highway Drive Assist combined adaptive cruise control and lane following assist. The top trim included a blind spot avoidance feature and Blind View Monitor. NHTSA rated the Santa Fe four out of five stars, while IIHS gave it a "Good" rating in most categories.