2022 Jeep Wrangler 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 somewhat 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 this simplicity, with a standout feature being the optional Dual SkyScape sunroof. Despite its $50,000 price tag, the materials in the RS model were decent but not exceptional, a common trait among midsize three-row crossovers.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a more rugged and adventurous aesthetic. Buyers had to choose between the classic two-door or the more practical four-door model, with various powertrain options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or plug-in hybrid. The Wrangler's design was characterized by its off-road capabilities, with the High Tide special edition featuring a 1.5-inch suspension lift, 35-inch tires, and a body-color hardtop. The interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and a driving position close to the steering wheel, dashboard, and windshield. The Wrangler's unique character and open-top design made it a memorable driving experience, though it required some compromises in comfort and refinement.

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 powertrain didn't feel particularly strong off the line, it provided sufficient 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 send up to 50% of torque to either front wheel or 85% to either rear wheel, but its impact on handling was not noticeable. The Traverse had a 5,000-pound towing capacity, average for its segment.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, delivering 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission was a mandatory option, and the Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system was ideal for slippery conditions. The Wrangler's fuel economy was lower than expected, averaging 16.8 mpg over a week of driving. Known for its unique driving experience, the Wrangler was loud, with vague steering and a rough ride, but it offered an immersive and adventurous feel. Its off-road capabilities were unmatched, making it a favorite among enthusiasts despite its thirst for fuel and lack of refinement.

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 up, 57.8 cubic feet with the third row stowed, and 98.2 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. A power liftgate was available, and higher trims featured a gesture-activated liftgate. However, interior storage options were limited, typical of midsize three-row crossovers.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide's raised suspension made entry and exit challenging, especially for shorter individuals. The interior featured comfortable seats with durable cloth upholstery, but plastic and rubber dominated the materials. Visibility varied, with some areas compromised by the design. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry challenges but found agreeable accommodations once inside. Cargo space was 31.7 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. Storage options were limited, with netting on door panels and small compartments.

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, a WiFi hotspot, and a Bose audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with analog controls for audio and climate. The Traverse also featured a rearview camera mirror and an optional HD surround-view camera system, enhancing visibility and maneuverability.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, based on the Sport S trim, had a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system offered upgrades like satellite radio and a premium sound system, but the basic setup sufficed for most needs. The Wrangler included remote engine starting, satellite radio, and a passive keyless entry system. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, extending the open-air driving season.

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 "Acceptable" and "Poor" headlight ratings and an "Acceptable" LATCH rating. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating, with four stars in frontal and rollover tests. Standard driver-assist features were limited, with many options available only on higher trims.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Despite these features, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were mediocre, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler required careful driving due to its design.