2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. Its upscale appearance was evident, especially with the 22-inch wheels included in the TX 350 Executive packages, which significantly enhanced its presence. The styling of the TX was more subdued compared to other Lexus models, offering a conservative look that might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's design. The TX came in various model series, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486, although the TX 550h+ was not yet available. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, with options for Ultra Luxury or Executive packages. The interior, while luxurious, felt dark due to the Peppercorn colour scheme, but overall, it met the expectations of a Lexus badge.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available in three main trims in Canada: LT, Z71, and RS. The Z71 was a new addition, designed for moderate off-roading. Chevrolet emphasized that the Z71 was not meant for extreme off-road adventures but could handle reasonably rugged terrain. The Traverse's pricing was competitive, starting at $50,833 for the LT and reaching $65,733 for the RS model. The Z71 model, priced at $56,833, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. The interior of the Z71 was accented with "Torch Red" details, and while synthetic leather seating was optional, the standard cloth seats were comfortable and breathable. The Traverse's design and features made it a strong contender in its segment.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Lexus claimed it could accelerate to 100 km/h in about eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to its torque. The official fuel economy rating was 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, but during testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm yet comfortable suspension and accurate steering. The interior was quiet on the highway, though the brake pedal felt too soft in the test car.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower 3.6-litre V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive was standard, with the Z71 featuring a more advanced system. The Traverse offered acceptable acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust note. The steering was adequate, and the ride was smooth, even with all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. The brakes provided a controlled stop, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. Fuel economy estimates were 12.4 L/100 km in the city, 9.9 on the highway, and 11.3 combined.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 test unit featured premium leather and suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard. The second-row bench seat was comfortable, though lacking a massage function. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, with decent leg support and visibility. Cargo space measured 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third row folded, and 2,746 litres with the second row down. Storage options were plentiful, though some lacked lining, and the split front centre armrest design was not ideal.

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 seats. 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 second and third rows folded. Storage nooks were abundant, including a hidden area under the centre console. 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 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a digital rearview mirror, with additional options in the Executive packages. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included a 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Drive Connect subscription for cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX also offered free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, and a three-year Remote Connect subscription. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided impressive sound quality.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch digital instrument display. The system ran on Google-based software, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The wireless charging pad was effective, and physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained. The Traverse also offered Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, which expanded its functionality to single-lane roadways. However, some controls, like headlight functions, were buried in the infotainment system.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was also included, though it was not always smooth. Additional options included parking sensors, front cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist. The system was generally effective, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it offered a wide range of driver aids as standard. These included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and more. The systems were reassuring, though not tested during the evaluation.