2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned and available in four model series, offered a range of trim levels from base to Luxury, with prices starting at $37,950. The NX 350, particularly in F Sport and Luxury trims, was noted for its distinctive Lexus design, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details. The SUV was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, providing more passenger and cargo space. The F Sport trim stood out with unique exterior and interior features, including sport-bolstered seats and a new F Sport steering wheel. The interior design took a minimalist approach, with most functions integrated into a 14-inch touchscreen, which some found challenging to use quickly. Despite high-quality materials, certain elements like the turn signal felt less premium.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, priced from $33,700, was a practical choice for those needing a spacious SUV without the bulk of a larger vehicle. It received a light restyle for 2022, with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs. The RS trim, tested with AWD and a Dual SkyScape Sunroof, featured blacked-out trim and dark gray 20-inch wheels. The Traverse's design was praised for its crisp lines and tasteful details. Inside, the RS trim offered black leather upholstery with contrast stitching and gloss black trim. While hard plastic surfaces were prevalent, the interior layout was logical, with easy-to-use controls. The Traverse's ride quality was firm yet compliant, though it required careful handling over larger road anomalies.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h delivering 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ providing 302 horsepower with a 36-mile electric range. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The NX 350 F Sport added driving modes and an adaptive variable sports suspension, enhancing its sporty character. The SUV's handling was improved over the previous model, though the engine's sound was less refined than some competitors. The NX's off-road capabilities were limited by its ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a single engine option, a 3.6-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse's tow rating was 5,000 pounds, with driving modes for towing, snow, and off-road conditions. The V6 engine was well-suited to the Traverse's size, offering a pleasant ride quality in town and on the highway. The SUV's handling was predictable, with good performance from the steering and brakes. However, the RS trim's tires were less impressive, and the Traverse felt disconnected from the road at higher speeds.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided more interior space, though it felt cozy from the driver's seat. The SUV offered comfortable seating, especially with heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed ample space and amenities, while cargo space increased to 22.7 cubic feet behind the back seat, expanding to 46.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. The NX's Luxury trim featured ambient lighting and effective climate control.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, with its captain's chairs in higher trims, seated seven passengers. The RS trim included power-adjustable and 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 offered generous storage space, with hidden compartments and a maximum cargo volume of 98.2 cubic feet. However, folding the third-row seats required sliding the second-row chairs forward.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system, featuring large touchscreen displays, voice recognition, and cloud-based services. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen optional. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 10-speaker sound system, and optional Mark Levinson audio. The NX offered a range of connected services and a digital key feature. However, the touchscreen collected fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. Higher trims included an 8-inch digital instrumentation panel and a Bose sound system. The Traverse's voice recognition system was effective, and the digital rearview mirror improved visibility. The RS trim's surround-view camera and rear cross-traffic alert were useful in parking situations.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including advanced driver assistance systems like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection. The SUV also offered blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist. Premium trim added rear pedestrian detection and adaptive front lighting. The Emergency Driving Stop System provided additional safety in case of driver unresponsiveness.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse included Chevy Safety Assist as standard, with features like forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse's driving aids were generally accurate and user-friendly. The SUV received top ratings in most collision tests, though the IIHS had not assessed its headlight or driving-assistance systems.