Page 36 - Motor Trend (May 2020)

THE BIG TEST I 3-Row SUVs

LAYOUT, CHEVROLET TRAVERSE

70.7”

67.3” 67.0” 120.9”
78.6” 204.3”

with poor material choices, creaky joinery,
2020 Chevrolet Traverse
and even exposed wires. “There’s an abuse
HEADROOM, F/M/R 41.3/40.0/38.2 in of scratchy plastics on the doors and dash,”
LEGROOM, F/M/R 41.0/38.4/33.5 in associate online editor Nick Yekikian
SHOULDER ROOM, F/M/R 62.1/62.2/57.5 in said. “The leatherette feels like rubber.
CARGO VOLUME BEHIND 98.2/57.8/23.0 cu ft It’s almost mushy. The center console
F/M/R lid closes with a really unsatisfying clap.”
CURB WEIGHT; DIST, F/R 4,346 lb; 58/42% Despite the materials, the Explorer’s third
GROUND CLEARANCE 7.5 in row is comfortable and spacious; even
APPROACH/DEPART ANGLE 13.3/21.3 deg adults have enough legroom and head- The Traverse’s infotainment system features
room for short city drives. modern graphics and a quick processor.
TURNING CIRCLE 39.0 ft
The Hyundai Palisade differentiates
TOWING CAPACITY 5,000 lb
itself from the Telluride with a push- wood on the door panels creates a relaxing
were let down by the Highlander’s old button gear selector and an intriguing atmosphere. “The material choice, quality,
technology and very tight third row (only layout for the center console. There’s a lot and color mix are all top-notch,” Seabaugh
27.7 inches of legroom, the smallest of the of attention to detail, from the headliner said. The infotainment screen is easy to
group). The infotainment system is slow that feels like the fanciest Egyptian cotton use, and the excellent Harman Kardon
and doesn’t look as new as the others— to the quilted leather on the door panels. stereo comes with the only CD player in
even the Pilot’s feels newer. Some of the Although the Telluride and Palisade are the group. The Ascent offers good visi-
buttons require a real reach, getting into similar, we’d rather spend our time in the bility, and it’s comfortable. But we prefer
the third row is a struggle, and once you’re Telluride. “The Palisade is logical, but I the Highlander’s dashboard trays, which
back there, there are no USB ports. But we wouldn’t necessarily call it attractive or aren’t as narrow or short and hold more
praised the Highlander’s deep and efficient premium,” road test editor Chris Walton stuff than the Ascent’s. The Ascent also
trays for driver and passenger—an ideal said. “It’s just different to be different.” comes with smart interior details, like the
place to put your phone, wallet, or keys. The Subaru Ascent distinguishes itself handles located on the shoulders of the
We were most disappointed by the from the group with its elegant mix of inte- second-row captain’s chairs’ seat backs to
interior of the Explorer, which was rife rior colors. The three-tone palette and faux help you get in or out of the third row.

36 MOTORTREND.COM MAY 2020