2021 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse was a nod to traditional SUV styling, with its tall roof, chunky wheel arches, and prominent grille. While its exterior design was considered generic, it was clean and handsome, appealing to buyers seeking a classic SUV look. The Traverse differentiated its trim levels through styling details, such as blacked-out trim on the RS model and chrome accents on the High Country model. The interior mirrored the exterior's restrained styling, with an optional Dual SkyScape sunroof as a standout feature. Despite its blue-collar appeal, the Traverse shared a platform with more premium models like the Buick Enclave and Cadillac XT6, offering a car-like unibody construction.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX showcased sharp design lines that were distinctly Lexus, resembling its smaller and larger siblings, the UX and RX. The NX 300 and 300 F Sport gasoline models featured power-folding mirrors and standard 17-inch wheels, with the F Sport variant adding sportier elements like a honeycomb grille and 18-inch wheels. Inside, the NX boasted excellent material fit and finish, with quilted NuLuxe sport seats exclusive to the F Sport model. The interior design, while functional, appeared dated compared to newer competitors, but it maintained the brand's reputation for comfort and quality.

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

The 2021 Lexus NX, with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The six-speed automatic transmission was adequate, though not as smooth as newer multi-speed options. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds, with some engine noise under hard acceleration. The F Sport model featured Active Sound Control to enhance engine notes electronically. The NX offered standard FWD with optional AWD, transferring up to 50% of torque to the rear axle. Fuel economy was decent, with the FWD model achieving 25 mpg combined. The NX's adaptive suspension system, based on the LC 500 sport coupe, provided a smooth and engaging driving experience, though steering feedback was minimal. The NX had a 2,000-pound towing capacity and a top speed of 124 mph.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven or eight, with above-average headroom and legroom across all rows. Heated front seats were standard on the RS model, with ventilated front seats and heated rear seats available on higher trims. The Traverse excelled in cargo space, providing 23.0 cubic feet with all seats up, 57.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 98.2 cubic feet with all rear seats down. A power liftgate was optional or standard depending on the trim, with a gesture-activated liftgate available on higher trims. Despite its size, the Traverse was limited in interior storage options.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured a well-styled and comfortable interior, with ample room for adults in both front and rear seats. Heated and ventilated seats were available, and the rear seats offered a 60/40 split-folding option. While engine noise could intrude, road and wind noise were minimal. The NX's cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. A power liftgate with kick sensor technology was available, along with power-folding rear seats.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. An 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a Bose audio system were available on higher trims. The Traverse's infotainment system was user-friendly, with large icons and analog controls for audio and climate. A rearview camera mirror and HD surround-view camera system enhanced visibility and maneuverability. Each row had two USB ports, but wireless phone charging was limited to higher trims.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch screen available in the Navigation package, which included predictive traffic information and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though the Lexus infotainment system was less user-friendly. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a WiFi hotspot. The NX offered a Mark Levinson audio system on top trims and was compatible with the Lexus Enform Remote app, providing remote access to various vehicle functions.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse received top "Good" scores from the IIHS in crash tests and a "Superior" rating for front-crash prevention. However, it had mixed headlight ratings and an "Acceptable" LATCH score. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. The Traverse offered fewer standard driver-assist features than competitors, with many options available only on higher trims.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. The NX received top "Good" scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Lexus Enform Safety Connect provided additional safety features, and the NX had no recalls at the time of review.