2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2021 Subaru Crosstrek

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek was a clever adaptation of the Impreza hatchback, designed to meet the growing demand for crossovers with rugged aesthetics, AWD, and elevated driving positions. Subaru's strategy mirrored the success of the Outback, transforming the Impreza with black body cladding, unique 17-inch wheels, and a raised ride height of 8.7 inches, which was impressive even for some SUVs. The Crosstrek's vibrant color options, like Plasma Yellow Pearl, added to its distinct character. Despite its SUV-like appearance, the Crosstrek retained the Impreza's interior, which was functional but somewhat plain, with some questionable design choices like the clashing color accents in the Sport trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was a practical choice for those needing an SUV without the bulk and expense of larger models. Starting at $33,700, the Traverse offered a range of trims, with the RS trim featuring blacked-out trim and 20-inch wheels. The Traverse's design was restrained yet appealing, with a restyled exterior for 2022. Inside, the RS trim boasted black leather upholstery with contrast stitching and a logical layout, though hard plastics were prevalent. The Traverse's interior was spacious, with thoughtful storage solutions, but some materials felt less premium. Despite these drawbacks, the Traverse remained a strong contender in its segment.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered two gasoline engine options. The Sport and Limited trims featured a 2.5-liter boxer-four engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, while the Base and Premium trims retained the 2.0-liter engine with 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque. The Crosstrek's AWD system, standard across all trims, included torque vectoring and X-Mode for improved handling on loose surfaces. Despite its SUV-like stance, the Crosstrek's handling was predictable, with a comfortable ride and low wind noise. The new 2.5-liter engine provided a modest power increase, but acceleration remained adequate, accompanied by CVT droning.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a single engine option: a 3.6-liter V6 delivering 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse's tow rating was 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, with driving modes for towing, snow, and off-road conditions. The V6 engine was well-suited to the Traverse's size, offering a firm yet compliant ride. The Traverse excelled on highways, though road and wind noise were noticeable. In mountainous terrain, the Traverse's V6, steering, and brakes performed admirably, though the RS trim's tires and suspension felt disconnected at higher speeds.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek shared its interior dimensions with the Impreza hatchback, offering competitive passenger space but limited cargo capacity. With 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 55.3 cubic feet with them folded, the Crosstrek lagged behind some rivals. The interior featured a practical cubby hole with USB ports, but storage was minimal. The driving position was higher than the Impreza's, with good outward visibility, though it didn't provide the commanding view of traditional SUVs.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, particularly in RS trim, offered seating for seven with captain's chairs in the second row. The interior featured power-adjustable heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The second-row Smart Slide function and long rear doors facilitated access to the third row. The Traverse's cargo space was generous, with 23 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.8 cubic feet with it folded, and a maximum of 98.2 cubic feet. Thoughtful storage solutions included hidden compartments and ample door panel storage, though folding the third row required sliding the second-row seats forward.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek came equipped with the Starlink infotainment system, featuring a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offered an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and additional features like WiFi and SiriusXM. The system was user-friendly, with large analog controls for essential functions. Subaru's EyeSight driver-assistance features were accessible via steering wheel buttons, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered a 7-inch touchscreen on LS and LT Cloth models, with an 8-inch display on higher trims. The system supported Bluetooth for two devices, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and connected services like a WiFi hotspot. The RS trim included a Bose sound system and optional navigation. The Traverse's infotainment system was intuitive, with excellent voice recognition. Visibility was aided by a digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera, though the rear liftgate obstructed the standard rearview mirror.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with top marks in side crash tests. The IIHS awarded the 2020 model a "Top Safety Pick" rating, contingent on optional EyeSight features. EyeSight included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. The system's cameras were well-protected but could be obstructed by wipers or sunlight.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, offering features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control and rear pedestrian alert. The Traverse received "Good" ratings in most IIHS crash tests, though it was rated "Acceptable" in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not published ratings at the time of writing.