2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2021 Chrysler Pacifica

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a significant mid-generation refresh, showcasing a revised exterior that included new standard LED headlights and a hexagonal grille, giving it a more muscular appearance. The design retained some of its original sophistication, particularly noticeable as one moved from the front to the sides and rear, where a new all-LED taillamp spanned the width of the vehicle. Chrysler introduced six new wheel designs and the S Appearance Package, which added darkened features and black accents. Inside, the Pacifica offered a premium feel, especially in the Pinnacle trim, with features like a 10.1-inch touchscreen, quilted Nappa leather seats, and sound-deadening technology that enhanced the driving experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse presented itself as a crossover SUV with a light restyle, featuring new headlights, taillights, and grille designs. The RS trim, which was tested, included blacked-out trim and dark gray 20-inch wheels, contributing to its appealing aesthetic. The Traverse's interior was equipped with black leather upholstery, red and light gray contrast stitching, and gloss black trim. While the materials were a mix of hard plastics and polished metallic accents, the design was simple and logical, with matte-finish black switchgear for reduced glare. The Traverse's exterior and interior design demonstrated a level of styling restraint, making it one of the more appealing vehicles in its segment.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a traditional 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, and a hybrid version with a V6 engine and dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower from the engine and 198 horsepower from its motors. The hybrid model had an all-electric range of over 50 kilometres and a total range of 784 kilometres. The Pacifica's AWD system, available for the first time in 16 years, activated on-demand based on various conditions, enhancing fuel efficiency by deactivating when not needed. The traditional V6 Pacifica had a combined fuel consumption of 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres, while the hybrid used 2.9 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a single engine option: a 3.6-litre V6 producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse had a tow rating of 2,268 kilograms and offered driving modes like Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The V6 engine provided adequate power for the Traverse's size, with a combined fuel economy rating of 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres. The Traverse's ride quality was firm yet compliant, with a pleasant highway experience despite some road and wind noise. The SUV's handling was predictable, with a flat cornering attitude, although the all-season tires and suspension setup resulted in a softer feel at higher speeds.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious front seats and a padded centre console lid for a sense of togetherness. Standard features included rear power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating for the second and third rows, providing ample legroom and cargo space. The Pacifica boasted best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres, with under-console storage for second-row passengers and a spacious cargo area.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, particularly in RS trim, featured captain's chairs in the second row, reducing seating capacity to seven. The interior 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 legroom and headroom, although the captain's chairs lacked leg support. Storage space was abundant, with a hidden compartment behind the infotainment screen and another under the cargo floor. The Traverse provided 651 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,781 litres with seats folded.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its modern design and responsiveness. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with optional in-seat entertainment for the second row. The Pinnacle model offered FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features like rear-facing child seat view. The sound system options ranged from a standard six-speaker setup to a 19-speaker Harman Kardon system.

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 smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The RS trim included a Bose premium sound system, although it was not particularly impressive. The Traverse's voice recognition system was effective, and the digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera enhanced visibility.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered up to 116 safety features, with many standard on the Touring-L grade and above. These included automatic pedestrian emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional features like adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse received Good ratings from the IIHS in most categories but had some areas for improvement.