2021 BMW X7 vs 2021 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse was a nod to traditional SUV styling, with its tall roof, chunky wheel arches, and a prominent grille. It offered a clean and handsome design, though it lacked the personality of some competitors like the Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride. The Traverse's restrained styling allowed for distinct cosmetic elements across different trim levels, such as blacked-out trim on the RS model and chrome accents on the High Country. Inside, the Traverse maintained a similar understated style, with an optional Dual SkyScape sunroof as a standout feature. While the materials in the RS model were decent, they didn't quite match the vehicle's price tag, a common issue among midsize three-row crossovers.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X7 exuded luxury and sophistication, with a design that commanded attention on the road. It boasted greater interior quality than many of its competitors, offering a prestigious feel and advanced technological features. The X7's styling was both traditional and glamorous, fitting its position at the top of BMW's SUV lineup. Inside, the X7 shared similarities with the X5 but offered a more luxurious experience with high-quality materials and intuitive technology. The vehicle's design and features made it a standout choice for those seeking a premium SUV experience.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the V6 didn't feel particularly strong off the line, it provided sufficient power for highway merging and overtaking. The Traverse excelled in highway driving, offering a quiet cabin and comfortable ride, though it lacked agility on twisty roads. Its AWD system, which required manual activation, could send torque to individual wheels but didn't noticeably enhance handling. The Traverse had a 5,000-pound towing capacity, average for its segment.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive AWD system. The X7 incorporated eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which aimed to improve fuel economy and responsiveness. Despite a slight drop in EPA ratings, the X7 delivered impressive power, accelerating to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The SUV's driving experience was smooth and serene, with advanced suspension systems enhancing comfort and handling. However, the X7's weight and body motions could detract from driving enjoyment on twisty roads.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven or eight, with above-average headroom and legroom in all three rows. It excelled in cargo space, providing 23.0 cubic feet with all seats in place, 57.8 cubic feet with the third row stowed, and 98.2 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. While interior storage options were limited, the Traverse's power liftgate and split-folding third row added convenience.

The 2021 BMW X7 provided a luxurious interior with features like heated and ventilated seats, premium leather upholstery, and a five-zone climate control system. Front-seat comfort was exceptional, and the second-row captain's chairs offered a comfortable experience. The third row was surprisingly accommodating for adults, though accessing it required some seat adjustments. The X7's cargo space was smaller than some competitors, with 48.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.4 cubic feet with all rear seats folded.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims featured an 8-inch screen, navigation, and a Bose audio system. The Traverse's infotainment system was user-friendly, with analog controls for audio and climate settings. It also offered a rearview camera mirror and an optional surround-view camera system for improved visibility.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured a 12.3-inch display for both its digital instrumentation and iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, which included navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system offered advanced features like real-time traffic data, a WiFi hotspot, and natural voice recognition. While the iDrive system was intuitive, it could be distracting to navigate while driving. The X7 also included a head-up display, though it was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though its headlight ratings varied by trim level. It offered fewer standard driver-assist features than competitors, with many safety technologies available as optional extras.

The 2021 BMW X7 came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The X7's advanced driving assistance systems were effective and trustworthy, though some specific situations revealed minor limitations.