2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, despite being in its second generation since 2014, continued to impress with its luxurious design and advanced features. The 2018 refresh introduced a dual-screen center console, a hallmark of Land Rover interiors, and the availability of a plug-in hybrid variant. The model offered a range of trims, from the base SE with leather upholstery and a dual-screen infotainment system, to the high-end Autobiography and performance-focused SVR Carbon Edition. Each trim level added layers of luxury and performance, with features like a supercharged V8 engine, panoramic sunroof, and advanced sound systems, making it a versatile choice for those seeking both comfort and power.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse presented itself as a practical and stylish family SUV. With a starting price of $33,700, it offered a more budget-friendly option compared to luxury SUVs. The Traverse underwent a light restyle for 2022, featuring new headlights, taillights, and grille designs. The RS trim, with its blacked-out trim and 20-inch wheels, added a sporty touch. Inside, the Traverse RS boasted black leather upholstery with contrast stitching and a user-friendly layout. While hard plastics were present, the overall design was functional, with easy-to-use controls and ample space for passengers and cargo, making it a strong contender in the family SUV segment.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered a variety of powertrains, starting with the P360 mild-hybrid system, which combined a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48-volt electrical system, producing 355 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. The HST model featured a more powerful P400 version, delivering 395 hp and 406 lb-ft. The P400e plug-in hybrid variant provided 398 hp and 472 lb-ft, while the diesel option offered 254 hp and 443 lb-ft. The HSE Dynamic and Autobiography trims boasted a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine with 518 hp, while the SVR models pushed it to 575 hp. All models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, with a towing capacity of up to 7,716 pounds, except for the SVR, which could tow 6,613 pounds. The Range Rover Sport excelled in off-road capabilities and provided a smooth ride on paved roads, thanks to its air suspension and Terrain Response system.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, on the other hand, offered a single engine choice: a 3.6-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped and featured driving modes like Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The V6 engine provided adequate power for daily driving, and the Traverse delivered a firm yet comfortable ride. It achieved an EPA fuel economy rating of 20 mpg combined, with our test vehicle returning 20.9 mpg. The Traverse handled well in various driving conditions, though it exhibited some road and wind noise on highways. Its suspension limited body roll, offering a stable ride, but the RS trim's tires and softer suspension at higher speeds affected its road connection.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered a maximum of 63.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 31.7 cubic feet with the second row in use. An optional third row increased seating capacity to seven but reduced cargo space to 10.8 cubic feet. The first and second rows provided ample space and comfort, while the third row was best suited for children.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, with its RS trim, featured captain’s chairs in the second row, reducing seating capacity to seven. It offered power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The Smart Slide function and long rear doors facilitated access to the third row. The Traverse provided generous legroom and headroom in the second row, though the captain’s chairs lacked leg support. The third row accommodated adults if the second row was adjusted, offering better comfort than many rivals. Cargo space was abundant, with 23 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 98.2 cubic feet. The Traverse also featured hidden storage compartments for added convenience.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport's interior was defined by its dual-screen center console, with the lower screen managing climate controls and vehicle settings, and the upper screen handling infotainment. While the system had a learning curve and some bugs in earlier models, it offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The system's dials allowed for multifunctional control, enhancing usability despite its complexity.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system on LS and LT Cloth models, while higher trims featured an 8-inch high-definition display. The system supported Bluetooth for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and connected services like a WiFi hotspot. The 8-inch system offered navigation, SiriusXM 360L, and Alexa Built-in. A Bose premium sound system was standard on RS trim and above. The Traverse's infotainment system excelled in voice recognition, providing a seamless user experience. Visibility was generally good, with a digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera enhancing safety.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport included standard driver assistance features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and parking sensors. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, which were standard on some less expensive vehicles. Additional options included a surround-view camera, traffic sign recognition, and a head-up display.

For 2022, the Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, automatic high-beam headlights, and a following-distance indicator. A Safety Package added rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse's safety features were generally accurate and user-friendly, though it lacked advanced systems like lane-centering assist. The IIHS rated the Traverse "Good" in most collision tests, with an "Acceptable" rating in a new side-impact test. NHTSA ratings were pending.