2022 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse was a nod to the past, with its exterior design relying heavily on styling details to distinguish between trim levels. This approach was reminiscent of how Chevy once used different wheels or chrome accents to differentiate models like the Impala and Caprice. The Traverse's exterior was a classic SUV design, featuring a tall roof, chunky wheel arches, and a prominent grille. While it offered a cleaner and more handsome look compared to competitors like the Toyota Highlander or Hyundai Palisade, it lacked the personality of the Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride. The Traverse's restrained styling allowed for cosmetic elements to shine, with options like blacked-out trim on the RS model or chrome accents on the High Country. The interior mirrored this restraint, with a standout feature being the optional Dual SkyScape sunroof. Materials in the RS model were decent, though not quite justifying the $50,000 price tag.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, introduced subtle yet impactful changes. New LED headlights and taillights provided distinctive illumination, while revised bumpers, a redesigned grille, and a fresh rear liftgate added to its appeal. The top Signature trim featured body-color lower exterior trim, emphasizing Mazda's premium aspirations. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel with Nappa leather upholstery and real wood trim. The new seats offered improved comfort and support, addressing previous complaints. The CX-5's driving dynamics were enhanced with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension, delivering a quieter and smoother ride. The 2.5 Turbo model, with its turbocharged engine, provided a thrilling driving experience, making the CX-5 a legitimate alternative to entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Despite these figures, the Traverse didn't feel as powerful as expected, though it delivered when needed for highway merging or overtaking. The nine-speed automatic transmission generally performed well, albeit with occasional rough shifts. The Traverse excelled in highway road manners, offering a quiet cabin and comfortable ride. However, it lacked agility on twisty roads, partly due to its AWD system, which required manual activation and didn't fully utilize its torque vectoring capabilities. The Traverse had a 5,000-pound towing capacity, average for its segment.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options. The 2.5 S model featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The 2.5 Turbo model, running on premium gas, delivered 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. The CX-5's driving dynamics were significantly improved, with reduced noise, vibration, and harshness. The new Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) offered Normal, Sport, and Off-Road settings, enhancing the driving experience. The CX-5's ride and handling were sporty and composed, instilling confidence in the driver.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven or eight, with above-average headroom and legroom in all three rows. Heated front seats were standard on the RS model, with ventilated front seats and heated rear seats available on higher trims. The Traverse excelled in cargo space, providing 23.0 cubic feet with all seats up, 57.8 cubic feet with the third row stowed, and 98.2 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. However, interior storage options were limited, typical of midsize three-row crossovers.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and seating. The new seats offered improved comfort and support, with a sportier driving position. The CX-5's back seat remained snug, but heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents improved passenger comfort. The control layout, however, was frustrating due to the non-touchscreen Mazda Connect infotainment system. Cargo space was adequate, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the back seat folded, comparing favorably to entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a Bose 10-speaker audio system were available on higher trims. The Traverse's infotainment system was user-friendly, with large icons and analog controls for audio and climate. A rearview camera mirror and optional HD surround-view camera system enhanced visibility and maneuverability. USB ports were standard for all rows, but wireless phone charging was limited to higher trims.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, operated via center console and steering wheel controls. While lacking a touchscreen and natural voice recognition, the system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. Starting with the 2.5 S Premium trim, a 10-speaker Bose audio system was standard, offering satisfactory sound quality. SiriusXM satellite radio was also included from this trim level.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse received top "Good" scores from the IIHS in crash tests and a "Superior" rating for front-crash prevention. However, it had "Acceptable" and "Poor" headlight ratings and an "Acceptable" LATCH rating. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. The Traverse offered less standard driver-assist tech than competitors, with features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking available only on higher trims.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive i-Activsense safety package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera system. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, a distinction few rivals could match.