2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available in three main trims in Canada: LT, Z71, and RS. The Z71 was a new addition, designed for those interested in moderate off-roading. 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. Pricing for the Traverse was competitive, with the LT starting at $50,833 and the RS reaching up to $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 Volkswagen Atlas was offered in four trims: Comfortline, Peak Edition, Highline, and Execline. The Peak Edition had an off-road appearance, while the Execline was sportier with more standard equipment. The Atlas Cross Sport, a five-passenger version, shared similarities with the three-row Atlas. Base prices ranged from $50,995 to $60,995. The Atlas Execline, tested in Mountain Lake Blue with a Shetland Beige leather interior, featured polished aluminum detailing, front and rear light bars, and 21-inch wheels. The interior boasted diamond-stitched leather, metallic accents, and artificial wood, creating a warm environment. However, the touch-sensitive controls for temperature and stereo volume were less satisfying, especially in winter conditions.

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, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced dual-clutch system. The Traverse provided acceptable acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust growl. The steering was adequate, and the ride was smooth, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. Fuel economy was rated at 12.4 L/100 km in the city, 9.9 on the highway, and 11.3 combined.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas transitioned to a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Despite initial concerns, the engine proved refined and satisfying for daily driving. The Atlas's engine was similar to the base engine in the Audi Q7, offering a generous torque curve between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm. However, the ride quality was less impressive, with the suspension feeling brittle over road imperfections. The Atlas's handling was predictable, with the brakes resisting rumble and fade. Fuel economy was rated at 12.8 L/100 km city and 11.3 L/100 km combined.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the LT and Z71 trims, while the RS featured second-row captain’s chairs, reducing capacity to seven. The Smart Slide second-row seats were easy to use, and the power-folding third row was standard on the RS. Cargo volume was 648 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,764 litres with the seats folded. The Traverse had numerous storage nooks, including a hidden area under the centre console. Visibility was mostly positive, though the third row felt slightly enclosed. The Z71 had a power-operated driver’s seat, but the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in form and function, with a comfortable third-row seat and a cavernous cargo area. The Execline model featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, though the leather felt stiff. Visibility was excellent, aided by a surround-view camera system. The second-row bench seat accommodated three adults comfortably, with ample legroom and a panoramic sunroof overhead. Access to the third row was outstanding, with a high bench seat providing adequate leg support. Storage space was commendable, with 583 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,735 litres with the seats folded.

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 modes button was less prominent. The Traverse also offered Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, which expanded its functionality to single-lane roadways.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used VW Group’s MIB3 operating system on a 12-inch touchscreen display. The lack of traditional controls made the system less user-friendly, with touch-sensing temperature buttons and a touch-and-slide volume control. The native digital voice assistant was unreliable, though wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided a better experience. The Atlas Execline’s Harman Kardon audio system was impressive, but the MIB3 system had glitches, such as incorrect song titles on SiriusXM radio. The navigation system was confusing, adding to driver distraction.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of the test drive. However, it offered a wide range of standard driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. A surround-view parking camera and traffic-sign recognition were also included.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured IQ.Drive, with standard driver assistance features like Front Assist, Side Assist, Lane Assist, Emergency Assist, and Travel Assist. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. The Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS “Top Safety Pick.” The IQ.Drive systems were accurate and trustworthy, with occasional false warnings.