2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2021 Nissan Rogue

The 2021 Nissan Rogue underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more muscular and imposing presence for this compact SUV. Its squared-off nose featured a deeper interpretation of Nissan’s V-Motion grille design, flanked by standard LED headlamps in a narrow and angled configuration. The inclusion of functional forward air vents and active grille shutters contributed to a lower coefficient of drag, despite the vehicle's boxier proportions. The exterior colour palette was simplified to a few core colours, with additional two-tone options available on the Platinum grade. Inside, seating surfaces varied from cloth to semi-aniline quilted Nappa leather, depending on the trim, with the Platinum model offering a more luxurious interior that could sway even the most skeptical of Nissan critics.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, while often seen as a glorified minivan, offered a light restyle with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs. The Traverse RS trim, which was tested, featured blacked-out trim and dark gray 20-inch wheels, adding to its appeal. The interior was equipped with black leather upholstery with red and light gray contrast stitching, though hard plastic surfaces were prevalent. The design was simple and logical, with matte-finish black switchgear reducing glare. The Traverse's interior was spacious, with a focus on practicality, though some materials left room for improvement.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue was powered by a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, available at 3,600 rpm. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which, while not offering alternate powertrains, provided a standard level of performance across the lineup. The Rogue's fuel efficiency was respectable, with figures of 8.9 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 L/100 km on the highway for the front-wheel-drive configuration. The handling was significantly improved, with a 27% increase in torsional rigidity and a revamped multi-link rear suspension, resulting in a stable and planted road feel.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse's tow rating was 2,268 kilograms, with various driving modes available for different conditions. The V6 engine provided adequate power for the Traverse's size, though it was primarily tasked with family transport. The fuel economy was rated at 11.8 L/100 km combined, with the option to switch between front-drive and all-wheel-drive modes. The Traverse offered a firm yet compliant ride, though it required careful handling over larger road anomalies. On the highway, it excelled, though road and wind noise were more pronounced.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue offered functional updates across all price points, including a quieter cabin and a new shift-by-wire system. The second-row doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and headroom was increased. Standard features included heated front seats and a steering wheel, with upgrades available in higher trims. The cargo space was generous, with a redesigned Divide and Hide system offering 1,028 litres with the second row upright and 2,064 litres with them folded.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, particularly in RS trim, featured captain’s chairs in the second row, reducing seating capacity to seven. The interior was equipped with power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The Smart Slide function and long rear doors facilitated access to the third row. Cargo space was abundant, with 651 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 2,781 litres. The Traverse also offered hidden storage compartments, enhancing practicality.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum grade upgraded to a 9-inch screen with wireless phone charging and a Bose 10-speaker audio system. However, the digital instrument cluster's graphics were difficult to read.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 7-inch touchscreen in the LS model, with an 8-inch display in higher trims. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a Wi-Fi hotspot and Teen Driver technology. The RS trim included a Bose premium sound system, though it was not particularly impressive. The voice recognition system was effective, and the digital rearview mirror improved visibility.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue was equipped with the Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model added ProPILOT Assist, enhancing highway driving assistance. The Rogue received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a four-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, featuring forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims included adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse received Good ratings from the IIHS in most categories but was rated Poor for its LED headlights.