2024 Kia EV9 vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Kia EV9 presented a bold new direction for Kia's electric vehicles, with a design that was both futuristic and distinctly Kia. Its exterior featured a blocky aesthetic reminiscent of digital clock numbers, with octagonal wheel arches and a sharply angled rear window. The lighting signature was a standout feature, with the "Star Map" daytime running lights and the "Digital Tiger Face" grille. The top trims, Land and GT-Line, included a Digital Pattern Lighting Grille, adding a constellation of light points. The wheels complemented the blocky design, with the base 19-inch wheels offering a sense of motion, while the Land and GT-Line trims featured more geometric patterns. Inside, the EV9 felt airy and fresh, with a light gray two-tone interior and dual sunroofs. The seats were comfortable, with power-adjustable options and durable SynTex surfaces.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered a more traditional SUV look with a focus on practicality and off-road capability, especially in the new Z71 trim. The Z71 was designed for moderate off-roading, with gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and an Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. The interior featured a Jet Black color scheme with "Torch Red" accents, and the standard cloth seats provided comfort and breathability. The Traverse's design was functional, with Smart Slide second-row seats for easy access to the third row and a power-folding third row for increased cargo capacity. The Autosense power liftgate added convenience, and the overall design was aimed at providing a comfortable and versatile driving experience.

The 2024 Kia EV9 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the Light trim's single motor RWD setup, producing 215 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 230 miles. The Light Long Range model featured a larger 99.8-kWh battery, reducing horsepower to 201 but extending the range to 304 miles. The AWD trims, Wind and Land, delivered 379 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 280 miles. The GT-Line trim prioritized performance with 516 lb-ft of torque and a range of 270 miles. The EV9's power delivery was smooth, and its handling was stable, with adjustable regenerative braking and fast charging capabilities.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous V6 engine with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder, producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offered more power and torque than the discontinued V6. AWD was optional on all trims, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced system for better grip in slippery conditions. The Traverse provided acceptable acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust note. The ride quality was excellent, even with the Z71's all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance. The brakes were progressive, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway, depending on the drivetrain.

The 2024 Kia EV9 stood out with its spacious third row, offering 39.5 inches of headroom and 30.8 to 32.0 inches of legroom. It could seat up to seven passengers, with second-row captain's chairs available on higher trims. Cargo space was competitive, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 81.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. The interior featured a floating center console and ample storage options, with second-row passengers enjoying additional amenities.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for up to eight in the base LS model, with second-row captain's chairs available on higher trims. The Z71 and RS trims were seven-seaters, with easy access to the third row. The Smart Slide second-row seats and power-folding third row enhanced versatility. Cargo volume was 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Traverse featured numerous storage compartments, including a hidden area under the center console and an underfloor storage bin in the cargo bay.

The 2024 Kia EV9 featured a three-screen curved display, with a 12.3-inch driver information display, a 5-inch Climate Display, and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a wireless charging pad and a premium audio system on higher trims. The EV9's connectedness was a highlight, with over-the-air updates and the Kia Connect store offering additional features and upgrades.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a large 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, complemented by an 11-inch digital instrument display. The system ran on Google-based software, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Traverse retained physical controls for volume and HVAC functions, though some controls were buried in the infotainment system. The Super Cruise hands-free driving aid was available, offering expanded functionality on pre-mapped roads.

The 2024 Kia EV9 came with a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot collision avoidance, and forward collision avoidance. Some features were reserved for higher trims, such as the Blind-spot View Monitor and reverse parking collision avoidance assist. The EV9 had not yet been rated by U.S. safety organizations but received high marks from Euro NCAP.

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