2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE

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 but was capable of handling reasonably rugged terrain. The Traverse's pricing was competitive, with the LT starting at $50,833 and the RS reaching $65,733. The Z71 model, priced at $56,833, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint, with a Jet Black interior accented by "Torch Red" highlights. The standard cloth seats were comfortable, though synthetic leather was available for an additional cost.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, last redesigned in 2020 and facelifted in 2024, was not a mere replica of other Mercedes SUVs. It shared some visual bulk with the GLS, GLC, and GLB but had a more rounded profile reminiscent of its predecessors. The GLE's design featured squared-off wheel arches and a horizontal grille, contrasted by sharply tapering side glass and a rakish windshield. The GLE Coupe models exaggerated these proportions, with a bulky lower body and fastback-style roofline. While not the most handsome in the Mercedes lineup, the GLE's styling adhered to the brand's orthodoxy. The interior offered unique colour options, such as the Yacht Blue in the U.S., and featured upscale elements like chunky air vents, mesh speaker grilles, and 64-colour ambient lighting.

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 discontinued 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 for general driving, though the vehicle's 5,200-millimetre length was noticeable. The ride quality was exemplary, 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 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 9.9 on the highway, and 11.3 combined.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered five powertrain options, including a plug-in hybrid and two AMG variants. The GLE 350 featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a mild hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The GLE 450 4Matic had a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six with 375 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The GLE 450e 4Matic combined a turbo-four with electric assist for 381 hp and 479 lb-ft, plus 80 kilometres of electric range. The AMG GLE 53 4Matic+ and AMG GLE 63 S 4Matic+ offered 429 hp and 603 hp, respectively. The GLE 63 S accelerated from 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, accompanied by a V8 soundtrack. Despite its power, the GLE felt larger than it was, even with AMG chassis upgrades. Maneuvering in tight spaces was challenging, but the powertrains were impressive.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the LT and Z71 trims, while the RS model featured second-row captain’s chairs, reducing capacity to seven. The third-row seats were suitable for average-sized adults, though taller passengers might need the second-row seats adjusted. 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 featured numerous storage nooks, including a hidden area under the centre console and an underfloor storage bin in the cargo bay. Visibility was generally good, except for the third row. The Z71 had a power-operated driver’s seat, but the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE was available in two-row, five-seat, and three-row, seven-seat configurations, though third-row space specs were not published. The GLE offered similar headroom to rivals but slightly less legroom than the Acura MDX, Audi Q7, and Genesis GV80. The high seating position provided an SUV-like feel, though visibility was limited. The AMG test car's front seats were heavily bolstered, making entry and exit challenging. Second-row passengers enjoyed more space than in most competitors, with additional legroom compared to the BMW X5, Land Rover Range Rover Sport, and Lexus RX. Cargo space was 894 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,790 litres with all seats folded. The centre console provided room for small items, and the GLE had a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms.

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, with a wireless charging pad in the centre console. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained, though the driving mode button was less prominent. Headlight functions were integrated into the infotainment system, which was inconvenient. The Traverse offered Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, with expanded functionality for single-lane roadways. The system disengaged at intersections, requiring adjustment.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen. The MBUX system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation. Multiple access methods, including a centre console touchpad and steering wheel touchpads, were available, though the voice recognition system was most effective. The AMG GLE 63 S Coupe had additional settings, including six drive modes and adjustable damper firmness, stability control, and exhaust noise. Some models offered an off-road display and a "transparent hood" function for the 360-degree camera system, aiding rough terrain navigation.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of testing. However, it offered a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and more. These systems provided peace of mind during the test drive.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured numerous driver-assist features, though some were optional. Standard features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, crosswind assist, parking assist, a driver attention monitor, and a 360-degree camera system. The Pre-Safe system mitigated collision effects by tightening seatbelts and closing windows. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist, and more. The IIHS awarded the GLE a 2025 Top Safety Pick+, though front-crash prevention ratings were "Marginal" and "Acceptable." NHTSA ratings were unavailable.