2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2021 Chevrolet Trax

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax, a continuation of the model introduced in 2015, maintained its 2017 design updates into 2021. It featured standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto since 2017, with a 2020 infotainment system update. The Premier trim was discontinued in 2021, leaving LS and LT trims. The LS offered basic features like 16-inch wheels, keyless entry, and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The LT trim added enhancements such as heated mirrors, remote start, and upgraded seating, with optional styling and convenience packages.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, a crossover SUV, offered a practical alternative to larger, less efficient vehicles. Starting at $33,700, it featured a light restyle with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs. The RS trim, positioned between LS/LT and Premier/High Country, showcased blacked-out trim and 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Traverse RS boasted black leather upholstery with contrast stitching and a logical layout. Despite some hard plastic surfaces, the interior was functional, with easy-to-use controls and a commendable stereo system.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax was powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 138 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, available in FWD or AWD. While adequate for city driving, the engine struggled at highway speeds, accompanied by noticeable noise. The Trax offered a firm ride, with a tight turning radius aiding maneuverability in urban settings. However, competitors like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30 provided more comfortable and engaging rides.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, with various driving modes for different conditions. The V6 provided sufficient power for the Traverse's size, achieving 20.9 mpg in combined driving. The ride was firm yet compliant, with good highway performance despite some road and wind noise. In mountainous terrain, the Traverse demonstrated athleticism, though its tires and suspension could feel disconnected at higher speeds.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax offered decent headroom and legroom in both rows, with supportive front seats but less comfortable rear seats. It featured multiple storage trays and low cupholder placement for convenience. Cargo space measured 18.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with seats folded. The front passenger seat folded flat for larger items, but no power liftgate options were available.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, with RS, Premier, or High Country trims, seated seven due to captain's chairs. It included power-adjustable heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The Smart Slide function and long rear doors facilitated third-row access. The cabin offered ample legroom and headroom, though second-row seats lacked leg support. Storage was abundant, with hidden compartments and generous cargo space: 23 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.8 cubic feet with seats folded, and a maximum of 98.2 cubic feet.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax came with a 7-inch touchscreen running the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two USB ports, Bluetooth, voice control, and an available WiFi hotspot. The system was user-friendly, with vivid graphics and hard buttons for ease of use.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim, with Bluetooth for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. Higher trims included an 8-inch digital instrumentation panel and optional navigation. The RS trim featured a Bose sound system and advanced voice recognition. Visibility was generally good, with a digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera enhancing safety.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax received a five-star NHTSA rating but lacked advanced safety features. Standard equipment included airbags and a backup camera, with optional blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, and rear parking sensors in the LT Convenience Package. Competitors offered more comprehensive safety systems.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse included Chevy Safety Assist as standard, with features like forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. Additional safety packages offered rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Traverse received "Good" ratings in most IIHS tests, with an "Acceptable" rating in a new side-impact test. NHTSA ratings were pending.