2024 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 MINI Countryman

The 2024 MINI Countryman was a vehicle that embraced its playful heritage, showcasing classic MINI styling with an erect wraparound windshield and a floating roof reminiscent of a bimini top. Its British roots were proudly displayed through Union Jack taillights. The Countryman offered a variety of customization options, including numerous paint treatments and wheel designs. In Canada, the lineup included the Cooper, Cooper S, Cooper SE, and John Cooper Works models, each with distinct drivetrains. The Cooper models featured a turbocharged three-cylinder engine, while the Cooper S and John Cooper Works boasted a more powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Cooper SE was a plug-in hybrid with a modest electric range. Special editions like the Untamed Edition added unique features and styling elements.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse was available in three main trims: LT, Z71, and RS, with the Z71 being a new addition aimed at those interested in moderate off-roading. The Traverse was competitively priced against rivals like the Kia Telluride and Ford Explorer. The Z71 model, which was the focus of our test drive, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. The interior was accented with "Torch Red" highlights, and while synthetic leather seating was optional, the standard cloth seats were comfortable. The Traverse's design was more utilitarian, with a focus on practicality and space, making it a suitable choice for families.

The 2024 MINI Countryman offered a range of performance options, with the John Cooper Works model standing out for its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 301 horsepower and 331 pound-feet of torque. This model could accelerate to 100 km/h in approximately 5 seconds. The Cooper S, with its 189 horsepower engine, provided a zippy and athletic driving experience, reaching 100 km/h in about 7.3 seconds. The Countryman excelled in daily driving scenarios, though it wasn't designed for off-road adventures. Fuel economy was decent, with a combined rating of 9.1 litres per 100 kilometres, though our test averaged slightly higher.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous V6 engine with a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder, delivering 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided more power and torque than the outgoing V6. All-wheel drive was standard, with the Z71 trim featuring an advanced dual-clutch system for improved traction. The Traverse offered satisfactory acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust note. The ride quality was commendable, even with all-terrain tires, and the brakes provided controlled stops. Fuel economy was rated at 12.4 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 11.3 combined.

Inside the 2024 MINI Countryman, there was room for four adults and their luggage for a week-long trip. The front seats were small but supportive, and the steering wheel was enjoyable to grip. While the Countryman had seatbelts for five, it was more comfortable for four passengers. Visibility was excellent, and the compact dimensions made parking easy. Interior storage was reasonable, though the smartphone charging pad blocked access to the tray beneath it. Cargo space was limited, with 498 litres behind the rear seats and 1,348 litres with the seats folded.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the LT and Z71 trims, with the RS model featuring second-row captain's chairs for seven-passenger capacity. The third row was suitable for average-sized adults, and the Smart Slide second-row seats facilitated access. The power-folding third row and Autosense power liftgate added convenience. Cargo volume was 648 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,764 litres with the seats folded. Numerous storage compartments were available, including a hidden area under the centre console. Visibility was generally good, though the third row had limited views.

The 2024 MINI Countryman featured a small digital instrumentation display and a head-up display projecting information on a small screen. The 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system used BMW's iDrive technology, offering multiple interaction methods, including touchscreen, steering wheel controls, and voice recognition. However, it lacked Android Auto connectivity, providing only Apple CarPlay. A 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system was available for enhanced audio quality.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a large 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, standard on all models, with rapid response times and intuitive menus. An 11-inch digital instrument display provided customizable information. The system ran on Google-based software, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The wireless charging pad securely held smartphones during driving. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained, though some functions were buried in the infotainment system. The Traverse also introduced Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads.

The 2024 MINI Countryman offered limited advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), with Active Driving Assistant providing forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Rear parking sensors and an emergency SOS call button were included, with adaptive cruise control available as an option. The Countryman received a "Good" rating in crashworthiness evaluations from the IIHS.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of our test drive. However, it came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view parking camera. These features provided peace of mind during our drive.