2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo presented a bold aesthetic with its shiny black 18-inch wheels, grille, and side mirror housings, complemented by thick matte black body cladding. This design choice gave the vehicle a distinctive, floating appearance, setting it apart from its Mazda3 hatchback roots. The elevated stance of the CX-30 was immediately noticeable upon entering the vehicle, offering a higher seating position that enhanced the perception of spaciousness. Inside, the cabin mirrored the Mazda3's upscale vibe with quality materials, stitched chocolate brown surfaces, and a choice of leatherette or leather upholstery, depending on the trim level.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, while often compared to a minivan, offered a more traditional SUV look with its restyled headlights, taillights, and grille. The RS trim, in particular, featured blacked-out trim and dark gray 20-inch wheels, adding a touch of sportiness to its appearance. The Traverse's design was marked by crisp lines and tasteful details, making it one of the more appealing options in its segment. Inside, the RS trim boasted black leather upholstery with contrast stitching, though the use of hard plastics in some areas detracted from the overall feel. The layout was simple and logical, with user-friendly controls and a focus on practicality.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo was equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on the fuel octane. It delivered 310 to 320 lb-ft of torque, ensuring effortless acceleration. The vehicle's six-speed automatic transmission and i-Activ AWD system, along with G-Vectoring Control Plus technology, contributed to a smooth driving experience. However, the CX-30's added height and weight slightly compromised its handling compared to the Mazda3. Despite this, the CX-30 offered a commendable off-road capability with its extra ground clearance and Off-Road mode.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a single engine option: a 3.6-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse's towing capacity was 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, and it featured various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The V6 engine provided adequate power for everyday tasks, and the Traverse's ride quality was generally pleasant, though it could feel disconnected from the road at higher speeds. The vehicle's handling was predictable, and it performed well in mountainous terrain, thanks to its Active Return Assist steering and Duralife brakes.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered a comfortable driving experience with its eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front seats. The cabin's minimalist design and high-quality materials created a sense of spaciousness, though rear-seat accommodations were cramped for adults. The CX-30 provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 45.2 cubic feet with the seats folded down. However, the location of the optional wireless smartphone charger in the center console limited storage options.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, particularly in RS trim, featured power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The second-row captain's chairs offered generous legroom, though they lacked leg support. The Smart Slide function and wide door openings facilitated access to the third row, which could accommodate adults with some adjustments. The Traverse boasted ample storage, including a hidden compartment behind the infotainment screen and another under the cargo floor. Cargo space was generous, 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 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via physical controls and voice commands. While the system required acclimation, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Mazda Connected Services. Premium trims included a Bose audio system and a head-up display. However, the lack of a touchscreen and cumbersome radio station navigation were drawbacks.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, depending on the trim. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity for two devices, and a WiFi hotspot. Higher trims included a digital instrumentation panel and a Bose sound system. The Traverse's voice recognition system was effective, and the available digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera enhanced visibility.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. It came with a comprehensive suite of i-ActiveSense ADAS, including adaptive front lighting and Traffic Jam Assist on higher trims. The mobile 9-1-1 emergency notification system was a notable feature.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse included Chevy Safety Assist as standard, offering features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. While the IIHS had not finalized its ratings, the Traverse received "Good" ratings in most collision tests. The NHTSA had not published its ratings at the time of review.