2025 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2024 Mazda CX-30

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 was designed to stand out as a crossover, with its distinctive charcoal-colored plastic cladding on the lower body, which some found excessive. Despite this, the CX-30 maintained an overall appealing aesthetic with its short overhangs, long hood, and sculpted sides. The interior of the CX-30 was a highlight, offering a level of style and refinement comparable to entry-level luxury SUVs. The gauges were clear, the infotainment screen was seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, and the dual-zone climate controls were elegantly designed.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was praised for its exterior styling, which was consistent with Chevrolet's recent SUV designs. The interior design was also visually appealing, featuring digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system. However, the quality of materials used in the Traverse was a point of contention, with hard plastics and artificial leather detracting from the overall sense of sophistication. Despite these drawbacks, the Traverse offered a spacious and comfortable cabin, particularly in the front seats.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. Despite these impressive figures, the power delivery was smooth rather than immediate, with torque arriving at 2,000 rpm. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission provided flawless shifting, and the standard all-wheel-drive system ensured power was effectively distributed to all four wheels. However, fuel economy was a downside, with an observed 21.3 mpg, falling short of the EPA's 25 mpg estimate. The CX-30 excelled in driving dynamics, offering a nimble and connected ride, though it felt slightly soft on winding roads.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. This power allowed for rapid acceleration, especially with the all-wheel-drive engaged, which mitigated front-wheel spin and torque steer. The Traverse Z71 trim was tailored for off-road adventures, with increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. On trails, the Traverse handled ruts and mud with ease, while its suspension absorbed rough pavement during daily commutes. Despite its size, the Traverse offered sound handling and a smooth ride, though it lacked sporty driving characteristics.

Inside the 2024 Mazda CX-30, the design was marked by quality materials and logical controls. The cabin featured gloss black trim, metallic accents, and exposed stitching, with Terracotta leather seats adding a touch of color. While the front seats were comfortable and easy to adjust, the rear seat space was cramped. Cargo space was flexible, offering 20.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 45.2 cubic feet with them folded, making it practical for a small SUV.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted significant interior volume, particularly in width. The front seats were spacious, with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated features. The Traverse could seat up to eight passengers, with second-row captain's chairs providing comfort and support. However, the third row lacked a view and USB charging ports, which could be inconvenient for passengers. Cargo space was generous, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 97.6 cubic feet with all seats folded, though folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's turbocharged models featured a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the screen's placement was far from the driver, it represented an improvement over previous static displays. The CX-30 included a three-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services, USB-C ports, and a Bose premium audio system in higher trims.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse stood out with its standard 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Google Built-in, wireless smartphone integration, and SiriusXM 360L. The interface was user-friendly, with effective Google Assistant voice recognition. The Traverse also offered an 11-inch digital instrumentation panel with customizable views and optional features like a digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera system, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered additional features like adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera system. The CX-30 received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse came with a robust set of standard safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Driver Confidence Package added a surround-view camera system and traffic sign recognition. The Enhanced Driving Package included Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, and remote-parking technology. The Traverse earned high safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS.