2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2023 Lexus RX

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was a practical choice for those who needed the utility 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 options for all-wheel drive across the lineup. The Traverse received a subtle facelift with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs, along with various appearance packages like the Redline Edition. The RS trim, in particular, featured blacked-out trim and 20-inch wheels, making it a visually appealing option in its segment. 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 straightforward, with user-friendly controls for stereo and climate settings.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX presented a more modern and sophisticated design. It maintained the same overall length as its predecessor but appeared smaller due to design tweaks like reduced rear overhang and a floating roof effect. The signature spindle grille was seamlessly integrated, and the RX featured a light-blade taillight design and sporty rear bumper. Inside, the RX offered a contemporary cabin with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. The quality of materials was high, with options for genuine leather and simulated suede. The RX 350 was available in multiple trims, including hybrid options, though pricing details were not finalized at the time of review.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and offered various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The V6 engine provided adequate power for the Traverse's size, with a fuel economy rating of 20 mpg combined for the AWD model. The ride quality was generally pleasant, though the Traverse could feel soft over larger road imperfections. On highways, it was a capable cruiser, albeit with noticeable road and wind noise. The Traverse handled well in mountainous terrain, with limited body roll and predictable handling.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine offered better torque and fuel economy than the previous V6, though it lacked the same refinement. The RX 350 Luxury trim occasionally exhibited torque steer and excess body motion, while the F Sport Handling trim felt more composed with its adaptive suspension. The RX 350 AWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, with fuel economy estimates of 24 mpg combined. The RX's handling was generally satisfying, though the curve-speed reduction feature was not well-received.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven in RS, Premier, and High Country trims due to the inclusion of second-row captain's chairs. The interior 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 2023 Lexus RX 350 provided a comfortable cabin with semi-aniline leather upholstery in the Luxury trim and NuLuxe simulated leather in the F Sport Handling trim. The RX offered heated and ventilated front seats, with the F Sport Handling trim featuring sportier seat bolsters. The rear seat was supportive, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. Storage areas were practical, and cargo space improved over the previous model, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 46.2 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, depending on the trim. It supported Bluetooth connectivity for two devices, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and 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.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the new Lexus Interface infotainment system with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. The Intelligent Assistant responded well to voice commands, though it occasionally provided irrelevant results. The system allowed for user profiles and streaming services like Apple Music. The Mark Levinson sound system was available, delivering excellent audio quality. The RX also featured digital instrumentation, Digital Latch door handles, and optional HUD, though the latter had visibility issues with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse included Chevy Safety Assist as standard, featuring forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse received "Good" ratings in most IIHS tests, except for an "Acceptable" rating in a new side-impact test. NHTSA ratings were not available at the time of review.

The 2023 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included advanced features like motorcycle detection and evasive steering assistance. New semi-autonomous technologies like Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist were introduced. LSS+ 3.0 performed well, though the HUD had visibility issues with polarized sunglasses. The curve-speed reduction feature was not well-received, and the driver monitoring system could be overly sensitive.