2022 Subaru Forester vs 2021 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse was a nod to the past, with its design focusing on distinct styling details to differentiate trim levels, reminiscent of how Chevy once distinguished between models like the Impala and Caprice. Its exterior was a classic SUV silhouette, featuring a tall roof, chunky wheel arches, and a prominent grille, which appealed to buyers seeking a clean and handsome design. While it lacked the personality of the Ford Explorer or the streamlined appearance of the Mazda CX-9, the Traverse's restrained styling allowed for cosmetic elements to shine across different trims. The RS model, for instance, sported blacked-out trim, while the High Country model featured chrome accents. The Traverse shared its platform with the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Cadillac XT6, but it aimed for a more accessible feel compared to its premium siblings. Inside, the Traverse maintained a restrained style, with the optional Dual SkyScape sunroof as a standout feature. The materials in the RS model were decent, though not quite justifying its $50,000 price tag, a common issue among midsize three-row crossovers.

The 2022 Subaru Forester, particularly in its Wilderness trim, was all about practicality and ruggedness. Despite its homely appearance, the Forester's utility and driving dynamics made it a compelling choice. The Wilderness model featured a suspension lift, higher ride height, and protective cladding, giving it a rugged look. Inside, the Forester emphasized function over form, with a cabin that combined hard plastic and soft surfaces, exuding quality construction. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly, though the three display screens could be cumbersome. The Forester excelled in various driving environments, from city streets to off-road trails, thanks to its long-travel suspension and dual-function X-Mode system. The Wilderness trim's modifications, including longer springs, shocks, and all-terrain tires, enhanced its off-road capabilities, making it a compelling choice for those seeking adventure.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. While the engine specs suggested robust performance, the Traverse felt less powerful off the line, though it provided ample power for highway merging and overtaking. The nine-speed automatic transmission generally performed well, despite occasional rough shifts. 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 distribute torque between wheels but didn't noticeably enhance handling. The Traverse offered off-road and tow/haul drive modes, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, average for its segment.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. While it lacked a turbocharger, the Forester's CVT and AWD system provided a 25% increase in initial torque supply in the Wilderness model, doubling its towing capacity to 3,000 pounds. The Forester achieved an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in combined driving, with real-world tests showing 25.9 mpg. The engine's boxer-style grumble was endearing, though it felt sluggish at higher altitudes. The CVT's eight programmed ratios and SI-Drive's Sport mode improved responsiveness. The Forester's dual-function X-Mode system offered various settings for different terrains, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The Wilderness trim's longer springs, shocks, and all-terrain tires improved ground clearance and approach angles, making it a formidable off-road performer.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven or eight, with above-average headroom and legroom in all three 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 on lower trims and standard on higher ones. Despite its size, the Traverse was limited in interior storage options, typical of midsize crossovers.

The 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit due to tall seating hip points. The Wilderness trim featured water-resistant StarTex upholstery, all-weather floor mats, and a rubber cargo mat, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. The Forester's upgraded roof rails accommodated a dynamic load of 220 pounds and a static load of 800 pounds, suitable for a roof tent. Comfort levels were high, with excellent visibility and rear air conditioning vents. Cargo space measured 28.9 cubic feet without the sunroof and 26.9 cubic feet with it, expanding to 74.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The squared-off cargo area and new ceiling cargo hooks added practicality.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an 8-inch screen, navigation, and a Bose audio system available on higher trims. The 8-inch screen was user-friendly, with analog controls for audio and climate. The Traverse's analog instruments were supplemented by a small LCD screen. A rearview camera mirror and HD surround-view camera system enhanced visibility and maneuverability. USB ports were standard for each row, with wireless phone charging available on higher trims.

The 2022 Subaru Forester came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and Starlink connected services. Premium trims added a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The Wilderness, Limited, and Touring trims featured an 8-inch screen, navigation, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Wilderness trim also included a 180-degree forward-view camera. The test vehicle's navigation system was helpful, though a breadcrumb function would have been beneficial. The PIN Code Access feature allowed keyless entry, ideal for outdoor activities.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse received top "Good" scores from the IIHS in crash tests and a "Superior" rating for front-crash prevention. However, it received "Acceptable" and "Poor" headlight ratings and an "Acceptable" rating for LATCH ease of use. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating, with four stars in frontal and rollover tests and five stars in side-impact tests. The Traverse offered less standard driver-assist tech than competitors, with features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking available as options.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, offering improved accuracy and smoother operation. It included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. The Forester also featured a rear-seat reminder, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear automatic braking. The Touring trim added DriverFocus, a facial recognition technology for monitoring drowsiness and distraction. The NHTSA awarded the Forester a five-star overall crash-test rating, with a four-star rating for rollover resistance. The IIHS had not rated the 2022 model, but it was expected to retain the 2021 model's "Top Safety Pick+" rating.