2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was a departure from the aggressive styling trends of its competitors, opting instead for a sleek and smooth design that exuded elegance even at a standstill. While it didn't boast the boldness of some rivals, it took Mazda's signature design language in a refined direction. The exterior features varied slightly across trim levels, with the base GX offering LED headlights and 17-inch wheels, while higher trims like the GS and GT added leatherette seats, power liftgate, and larger wheels. The top-tier Signature model elevated the CX-5 to a premium level with Nappa leather seats and genuine wood trim, rivaling luxury brands in terms of fit and finish.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse embraced its role as a family-friendly SUV with a design that balanced practicality and style. The Traverse received a light restyle for 2022, featuring updated headlights, taillights, and grille designs. The RS trim, which was our test vehicle, showcased blacked-out trim and 20-inch wheels, adding a touch of sportiness to its appearance. Despite its minivan-like practicality, the Traverse's design was well-executed, with crisp lines and tasteful details that made it one of the more appealing options in its segment.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The base 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, available in both FWD and AWD configurations. The turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, available on higher trims, delivered a more spirited performance with 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. Fuel efficiency varied slightly between the engines, with the non-turbo FWD model achieving 9.7 L/100 km in the city and 7.8 on the highway. The turbocharged AWD model was slightly less efficient but still competitive within its class. The CX-5's engaging driving dynamics and sporty handling were highlights, though its stiff suspension could be a drawback for some.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a single engine option, a 3.6-litre V6 producing 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse's towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms, and it offered various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The V6 engine provided adequate power for the Traverse's size, and its fuel economy was rated at 11.8 L/100 km combined. The Traverse's ride quality was generally comfortable, though it could feel disconnected on undulating roads. Its handling was predictable, and the SUV performed well in mountainous terrain, thanks to its capable drivetrain and suspension.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5's interior was designed with comfort and functionality in mind, though it had some limitations. The seating position and comfort level were typical for its class, but rear legroom was somewhat compromised, especially for taller passengers. The CX-5 offered 875 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 1,687 litres with the seats folded, which was below average for the segment. The interior featured straightforward climate controls, but the larger shifter and infotainment controls could be less intuitive for shorter drivers.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse excelled in interior space and versatility. The RS trim featured power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The second-row captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row, and the Smart Slide function allowed for convenient entry and exit. The Traverse offered generous legroom and headroom in the second row, though the third row was less comfortable for adults. Cargo space was abundant, with 651 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,781 litres with all seats folded. The Traverse also featured hidden storage compartments for added convenience.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, though its operating system was not as user-friendly as some competitors. While it offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the lack of physical knobs for tuning and volume control could be inconvenient. The infotainment controls were positioned in a way that made them less accessible for shorter drivers, and the overall system felt dated compared to the vehicle's otherwise high-class interior.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered a more advanced technology suite, with a 7-inch touchscreen on the LS model and an 8-inch high-definition display on higher trims. The infotainment system supported Bluetooth connectivity for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Traverse also featured Teen Driver technology and an optional navigation system. The voice recognition system was particularly impressive, providing accurate and quick responses to commands. The RS trim included a surround-view camera and rear cross-traffic alert, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. Additional options included a head-up display, reverse automatic emergency braking, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-5 earned high safety ratings, receiving a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Mazda's warranty coverage included a three-year/unlimited kilometre new vehicle warranty and a five-year/unlimited kilometre powertrain warranty.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with Chevy Safety Assist as standard, featuring forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse received Good ratings from the IIHS in most categories, though it scored Acceptable in the new side impact test and Poor for its LED headlights and seatbelt reminders. The NHTSA had not published crash-test ratings for the 2022 model at the time of review.