2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2022 Jeep Wrangler

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was a practical choice for those who needed the functionality of a minivan but preferred the aesthetics of an SUV. It offered a range of trims starting from the base LS at $33,700, with the High Country trim reaching $53,400. The Traverse featured a modest restyle for 2022, with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs, along with updated wheel options and color choices. The RS trim, which was tested, showcased blacked-out trim and 20-inch wheels, adding a sporty touch to its appearance. Inside, the Traverse RS boasted black leather upholstery with contrasting stitching, though the use of hard plastics on upper door panels was a downside. The interior layout was simple and logical, with user-friendly controls for the stereo and climate systems.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a rugged and adventurous look, with the choice between two-door and four-door models. The High Tide special edition, based on the four-door Sport S trim, added unique features like LED lighting, a body-color hardtop, and a Sunrider Fliptop. The Wrangler's design was unmistakably Jeep, with a focus on off-road capability. The interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and a mix of plastic and rubber materials. The driving position was close to the steering wheel and windshield, requiring some adjustment for comfort. Visibility varied, with challenges in certain situations, but the Wrangler's character and open-air driving experience made it a unique choice for those seeking adventure.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a single engine option, a 3.6-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It offered a tow rating of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped and featured various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The Traverse delivered a firm yet comfortable ride, with a fuel economy rating of 20 mpg in combined driving for the AWD model. It excelled on highways, though road and wind noise were noticeable. The Traverse's handling was predictable, with limited body roll and a flat cornering attitude, though the RS trim's all-season tires were not particularly engaging.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide was equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine featuring eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and the Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system. The Wrangler's fuel economy was lower, averaging 16.8 mpg over a week of testing. Known for its unique driving experience, the Wrangler was loud, with vague steering and a rough ride. However, it offered an immersive and adventurous experience, especially with the top and doors removed. The Wrangler's off-road capabilities were unmatched, making it a favorite among enthusiasts despite its on-road compromises.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered a spacious interior, though the RS, Premier, and High Country trims were limited to seven-passenger seating due to captain's chairs in the second row. The Traverse featured power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The Smart Slide function in the second row facilitated access to the third row, which could accommodate adults with some adjustments. The Traverse provided 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 and a maximum of 98.2 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide's raised suspension made entry and exit challenging, especially for shorter individuals. The interior was basic, with comfortable seats and durable cloth upholstery. Storage options were limited, with netting on door panels and small compartments. The Wrangler offered 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 72.4 cubic feet with the seat folded. The tailgate, with its heavy 35-inch spare tire, required careful handling when opening. Despite its limitations, the Wrangler's interior was designed for durability and practicality, aligning with its off-road focus.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system on LS and LT Cloth models, while higher trims received an 8-inch display. The system supported Bluetooth connectivity for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and connected services, including a WiFi hotspot. The RS trim included a Bose premium sound system, though it was not particularly impressive. The voice recognition system was effective, and the digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera enhanced visibility and safety.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, based on Sport S trim, came with a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the larger Uconnect 8.4 system offered additional features, the basic setup met most needs. The Wrangler included remote engine starting, satellite radio, and a passive keyless entry system. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, extending the open-air driving season.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional safety features were available, such as rear parking assist sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Traverse received top "Good" ratings in most IIHS collision tests, though it was rated "Acceptable" in a new side-impact test. NHTSA ratings were not available at the time of review.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offering features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less favorable, with a three-star NHTSA rating for rollover resistance and Marginal ratings in IIHS tests. The Wrangler's safety features were optional, and its design required careful driving.