2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2021 Jeep Cherokee

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved since its debut, with opinions softening over time. While the short grille and swept-back headlights initially divided opinions, the Cherokee's proportions improved over the years. The exterior appearance varied significantly with trim levels, from the basic Latitude with 17-inch wheels to the more refined 80th Anniversary Edition with 19-inch wheels and painted cladding. The Cherokee stood out in a crowded SUV market, resembling the larger Grand Cherokee from the front. Its optional panoramic sunroof added a distinctive touch, showcasing Jeep's knack for innovative roof designs.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, despite being likened to a minivan, offered a compelling SUV option for those seeking practicality without the bulk of larger vehicles. Starting at $33,700, the Traverse lineup extended to the High Country at $53,400. The 2022 model featured a light restyle with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs. The RS trim, with its blacked-out trim and 20-inch wheels, was particularly appealing. The Traverse's design was praised for its restrained styling, with crisp lines and tasteful details. Inside, the RS trim featured black leather upholstery with contrasting stitching, though hard plastic surfaces were noted.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine options. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder produced 180 horsepower, while the 3.2-liter V6 delivered 271 hp. The top-tier 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder offered 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Despite these options, acceleration was modest, with the V6 achieving 0-60 mph in about 7.2 seconds. All models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, which improved over time. The Trailhawk model excelled off-road, thanks to features like Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. The Cherokee was available in FWD, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a single engine choice: a 3.6-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Traverse offered various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The V6 provided adequate power, with a combined fuel economy of 20 mpg. The Traverse's ride quality was firm yet compliant, though it required caution over speed humps. On highways, it excelled, though road and wind noise were noted. The Traverse handled well in mountainous terrain, with predictable behavior.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee, positioned between the Renegade and Grand Cherokee, competed with compact crossovers like the Honda CR-V. However, it lagged in utility, offering 26 cubic feet of cargo space with seats up and 55 cubic feet with seats folded. Passenger volume was 102 cubic feet, competitive in its class. The interior was simple and businesslike, with trim levels affecting material quality. The Trailhawk featured suede inserts, while the Latitude Lux offered Nappa leather.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, with RS, Premier, or High Country trims, featured captain’s chairs, reducing seating to seven. The RS trim included power-adjustable heated front seats and triple-zone climate control. The second-row Smart Slide function and long rear doors facilitated third-row access. The Traverse offered generous legroom and headroom, though third-row comfort was limited. Storage was ample, with hidden compartments and a maximum cargo volume of 98.2 cubic feet. The Traverse excelled in passenger and cargo space within its segment.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee boasted an intuitive infotainment system with Uconnect, available in 7-inch and 8.4-inch touchscreens. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though wired. The Cherokee offered a 4G WiFi hotspot and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was available, enhancing convenience.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims included an 8-inch digital instrumentation panel. The Traverse offered Bluetooth for two devices, a WiFi hotspot, and Teen Driver technology. The RS trim included a Bose sound system, though it lacked impact. The infotainment system excelled in voice recognition, and the digital rearview mirror improved visibility.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee received top "Good" scores in crashworthiness from the IIHS but lacked a Top Safety Pick award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating. Standard safety features included lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was limited to higher trims.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, including forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. A Safety Package added features like blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control and rear pedestrian alert. The Traverse received "Good" ratings in collision tests but was awaiting final IIHS ratings.