2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 boasted a design evolution that left its boxy past firmly in the rearview mirror. Gone were the strictly angular, utilitarian forms of the 1970s through the 1990s. In their place, the XC90 presented a stance brimming with elegance and athleticism. Its body seemed ready to lunge forward, with a long and sleek roofline that cleverly masked the vehicle's generous greenhouse without appearing bulky. Pronounced wheel arches and a snub nose, reminiscent of the venerable 245 wagon's upright grille, contributed to this aura of dynamic readiness. Superior fit and finish paired with the LED "Thor's Hammer" headlights signaled its upscale positioning and Swedish heritage.

Inside, the XC90 was the epitome of "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury." Natural wood and metal trims lent authenticity to the interior, with exquisite details like the sliding wood tambour cover and a crystalline gear selector handle reinforcing the luxury feel. Volvo's shift toward leather-free interiors by 2030 was notable, though Nappa leather seats were still available, required for those wanting ventilated front seats. This option proved fortuitous during the test drive in high humidity, providing much-needed comfort. Yet, it came recommended that potential buyers compare this with the tailored wool blend upholstery option, as the latter might not suit everyone's taste.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse still evoked the feel of a glorified minivan, despite its SUV guise. Prices started at $33,700, with the base LS FWD model, and climbed to $53,400 for the High Country. AWD was an optional feature, primarily useful for snow and mud rather than serious off-roading, given its 7.5-inch ground clearance. The Traverse’s restyle for 2022 brought new lights, grille designs, bumper updates, and wheel options across its lineup, with appearance packages like the Redline Edition adding blacked-out trim.

The RS trim, which was tested, stood out with its own blacked-out detailing and dark gray 20-inch wheels. Its crisply tailored lines, swollen fenders, and restrained styling made it a visually appealing contender in its segment. Although less sleek than the XC90, the Traverse’s design demonstrated a deliberate, subdued elegance that subtly distinguished it from more aggressively styled SUVs.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered a trio of powertrains across its lineup, with the T5, T6, and T8 models each providing distinct driving experiences. The T5 employed a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, available in FWD or AWD. The T6 variant stepped up with a supercharged and turbocharged version of the same engine, delivering 316 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, exclusively in AWD. The flagship T8 PHEV combined the same supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor to produce a robust 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque, also in AWD.

Fuel economy for the XC90 varied by model, with the T5 FWD achieving 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, while the T6 AWD managed 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The T8 PHEV combined gas and electric power for an impressive 55 MPGe and an 18-mile electric range, with an extended-range variant offering 66 MPGe and up to 36 miles on electric power. Charging the T8's battery took around five hours using a Level 2 charger. Despite the array of stats, the XC90 excelled in driving dynamics, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model.

In comparison, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse relied on a single powertrain option: a 3.6-liter V6 engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission, generating 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. This setup provided satisfactory performance for everyday driving tasks, with a tow rating of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Modes like Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road helped optimize the drivetrain for various conditions, although most driving was conducted in Normal mode.

The Traverse’s V6, while slightly whiny on acceleration, matched well with the vehicle's heft and delivered a decent EPA-rated 20 mpg combined in AWD guise, with the test vehicle achieving 20.9 mpg. In urban settings, the Traverse rode firmly yet comfortably, smoothing out smaller road imperfections. Yet, it required cautious handling over larger road anomalies to avoid bottoming out. Highway performance was solid, though road and wind noise were noticeable. Mountain driving showcased the Traverse's capabilities, displaying agility, responsive steering, and effective braking, although the RS trim’s all-season tires somewhat diminished the fun due to their limitations.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 catered to families with its six- or seven-passenger configurations. Entry to the third row was simplified by a one-handed sliding and folding mechanism for the second row. However, the third-row seating was better suited for children due to limited legroom and thigh support. Cargo capacity ranged from 15.9 cubic feet behind the third row to 85.7 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. Towing capacity varied from 4,000 to 5,000 pounds, sufficient for lighter loads like pop-up campers or watercraft.

Interior storage was ample, with generously sized door pockets, seatback pockets, console storage, and a sizeable glove compartment. The XC90's comfortable and supportive seats, along with a large panoramic moonroof, created a bright and airy cabin. The air conditioning system excelled during humid testing conditions, reinforcing the XC90's suitability for both summer and winter climates.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, on the other hand, seated up to seven passengers in RS, Premier, and High Country trims due to standard captain’s chairs. Entry to the third row was facilitated by the Smart Slide function and wide rear doors. Despite a high-quality air conditioning system that efficiently cooled the all-black cabin, the second-row captain’s chairs lacked sufficient leg support and reclined too much in the default position.

In terms of cargo space, the Traverse provided 23 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 57.8 cubic feet with those seats folded, and a maximum of 98.2 cubic feet with all seats down. This was competitive within its segment, although still falling short compared to larger SUVs like the Tahoe. Notable storage features included a hidden compartment behind the infotainment screen and another under the cargo floor, making the Traverse a practical choice for carrying significant cargo and various items.

Volvo's Sensus infotainment system, featured in the 2022 XC90, was one of the early adopters of tablet-like touchscreen functionality. Despite its intuitiveness, the system periodically showed signs of lag and glitchiness under heavy use. Connectivity improved with the use of Apple CarPlay, although Android Auto was also supported. The nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen was strategically positioned for easy access and minimal distraction, complemented by a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and the Advanced package’s head-up display. Audiophiles could opt for the Bowers & Wilkins sound system, which excelled in surround sound staging. USB ports and a WiFi hotspot ensured connectivity, alongside the Volvo Care app for remote functions.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered varying infotainment systems, with a 7-inch touchscreen standard on LS and LT models, and an 8-inch high-definition display on higher trims. Premium trims like Premier and High Country also featured an 8-inch digital instrument panel between analog gauges. Both infotainment systems supported Bluetooth for dual smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. The system’s voice recognition was reliable and user-friendly, ensuring easy operation. Visibility enhancements, such as a digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera, were appreciated. However, the Bose premium sound system, standard in RS trim, was underwhelming.

Volvo’s commitment to safety was epitomized in the 2022 XC90, packed with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, and rain-sensing wipers. Innovations included slippery road alerts, lane-keeping aid, adaptive cruise control, and road-sign recognition. Volvo's Pilot Assist combined these features for assisted highway driving, offering a safe and relaxing experience. The XC90 earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

Chevrolet's 2022 Traverse introduced Chevy Safety Assist across all trims, encompassing forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams. Additional safety features like rear parking assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on most trims. Higher trims, including RS, offered adaptive cruise control and rear pedestrian alert. The Traverse’s collision-related test ratings were good, though a new side-impact test yielded an acceptable rating.