2021 Lexus RX vs 2021 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse was a nod to classic 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 traditional SUV look. 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. The interior mirrored the exterior's simplicity, with an optional Dual SkyScape sunroof as a standout feature. Despite its $50,000 price tag, the materials in the RS model were decent, though not exceptional, aligning with the trend of expensive midsize three-row crossovers.

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased the brand's modern design aesthetic with its large grille, angular headlamps, and floating roof. The RX was available in five variants, including the RX F Sport and RX Hybrid, each offering unique features. The RX's exterior updates from 2020, such as elongated headlights, remained for 2021, enhancing its front-end appearance. Standard features included 18-inch aluminum wheels and LED lighting, with options for 20-inch wheels and triple-beam LED headlights. Inside, the RX boasted luxurious appointments, from NuLuxe-trimmed seats to semi-aniline leather upholstery. However, the center console design and infotainment system were criticized for being dated, despite their functionality.

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 sufficient power for highway merging and overtaking. The Traverse excelled in highway comfort, with a quiet cabin and smooth suspension, though it lacked agility on twisty roads. Its AWD system, which required manual activation, offered torque vectoring capabilities, but these weren't noticeable during driving. The Traverse had a 5,000-pound towing capacity, average for its segment.

The 2021 Lexus RX, RXL, and RX F-Sport featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX Hybrid models combined a V6 with three electric motors, delivering 308 horsepower and AWD. The RX's fuel efficiency varied, with the FWD RX 350 achieving 23 mpg combined. The RX's suspension and handling improvements made it more dynamic, with the F Sport Handling package adding adaptive suspension and sportier features. The RX's acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 mph time of around 7.7 to 7.9 seconds, depending on the drivetrain.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven or eight, with above-average headroom and legroom across all rows. It 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 standard on higher trims, enhancing convenience. However, interior storage options were limited, typical for midsize crossovers.

The 2021 Lexus RX provided seating for five in two-row models and six or seven in three-row RXL versions. While front and second-row seating was spacious, the third row was cramped. Cargo space was limited, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row in two-row models and just 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row in three-row versions. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Higher trims offered an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a Bose audio system. The Traverse's infotainment system was user-friendly, with analog controls for audio and climate. A rearview camera mirror and HD surround-view camera system enhanced visibility and maneuverability. USB ports were standard across all rows, but wireless charging was limited to top trims.

The 2021 Lexus RX featured dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a nine-speaker sound system as standard. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system. The infotainment system, while visually appealing, was criticized for its complexity. The Remote Touch controller offered an alternative to touchscreen interaction but was less refined than competitors' systems. The RX lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a drawback for tech-savvy buyers.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse received top "Good" scores from the IIHS in crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. However, its headlight ratings varied by trim, and it offered fewer standard driver-assist features than competitors. Adaptive cruise control and other safety technologies were optional, not standard.

The 2021 Lexus RX earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation, with "Good" crashworthiness scores. The NHTSA rated the RX 350 and RX 450h with four stars overall. Standard safety features included 10 airbags, blind-spot monitoring, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies. However, the RX lacked advanced hands-off driving features found in some competitors.