Chevrolet
Traverse
Mazda
CX-90
Chevrolet Traverse vs Mazda CX-90: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Mazda CX-90 comes out ahead of the Chevrolet Traverse on fuel economy and power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Traverse
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year and generation. For the 2018-2023 generation, owner feedback is mixed, with many reporting trouble-free, spacious, and practical family vehicles, while others report significant and recurring mechanical and electrical failures. The 3.6L V6 engine is frequently praised for its smoothness and power, but the associated transmission is a major source of criticism, with reports of failures, leaks, and shifting issues.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim or package. Feedback is focused on generations and powertrains.
Known issues
- ⚠Transmission failures and problems: includes complete failure, fluid leaks, rough shifting, stalling, and speed sensor issues. Affects multiple generations. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Electrical and infotainment system failures: encompasses "Service Driver Assist System" errors disabling all ADAS features, complete failure of the myChevrolet app and connected services (remote start, lock/unlock), screen freezes, and Blu…
- ⚠Engine timing chain issues: a known concern for the 3.6L V6 engine in older models (2009-2012 mentioned), requiring costly repair. Frequency: recurrent.
CX-90
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear divide between driving experience and reliability concerns. The vehicle is very frequently praised for its exceptional driving dynamics, handling, and powertrain performance, often described as feeling more luxurious and sporty than mainstream competitors. The inline-6 turbo engine is noted for its power and smoothness, and the overall refinement and interior quality are recurrent positives.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim. The Turbo S powertrain is mentioned for its performance.
Known issues
- ⚠New platform reliability concerns: multiple software recalls, unproven long-term durability of the new inline-6 engine, 8-speed transmission, and hybrid systems. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Third-row space limitations: cramped and less usable compared to key competitors like the Telluride, Palisade, and Highlander. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Interior packaging and storage: poorly laid out interior with limited useful storage compartments and cupholders compared to the previous CX-9 and competitors. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Mazda CX-90 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Chevrolet Traverse, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Mazda CX-90 are a dealbreaker, the Chevrolet Traverse is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Chevrolet Traverse or the Mazda CX-90?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Mazda CX-90 than the Chevrolet Traverse. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet Traverse or the Mazda CX-90?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chevrolet Traverse or the Mazda CX-90?
The Mazda CX-90 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 9.4 L/100km combined versus 11.2 L/100km for the Chevrolet Traverse, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chevrolet Traverse or the Mazda CX-90?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Chevrolet Traverse than the Mazda CX-90. See the known issues comparison above.