2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was crafted as a distinct electric vehicle, diverging from the traditional styling of Volkswagen's gasoline models. It featured a streamlined profile with wheels pushed to the corners, setting it apart from the more rugged appearance of the Tiguan and Atlas crossovers. The ID.4 was part of Volkswagen's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback in Europe. While it offered a unique design, it didn't quite resemble an SUV, a common trait among many EV crossovers. Inside, the ID.4 combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-focused aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. The base model came with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette upholstery available in higher trims.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse presented itself as a practical crossover SUV, offering a more traditional SUV look with a light restyle for the model year. It featured new headlights, taillights, and grille designs, along with various appearance packages like the Redline Edition. The RS trim, which was tested, showcased blacked-out trim and dark gray 20-inch wheels. The Traverse's design was praised for its restrained styling, with crisp lines and tasteful details. Inside, the RS trim boasted black leather upholstery with contrast stitching, a black headliner, and gloss black trim. The interior layout was simple and logical, with matte-finish black switchgear and easy-to-use controls for stereo and climate functions.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel drive (RWD) version featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) version added a second electric motor for a total output of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The ID.4 was tuned for comfort, with a smooth ride over bumps and potholes, though it exhibited body roll in corners. Unlike many EVs, it didn't offer aggressive regenerative braking, relying on friction brakes for a more familiar driving experience.

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. It had a tow rating of 2,268 kilograms and offered various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The V6 engine provided adequate power for the Traverse's size, and the SUV delivered a firm yet compliant ride. On highways, it excelled, though road and wind noise were noticeable. The Traverse's handling was predictable, with limited body roll and a flat cornering attitude, though the all-season tires were not particularly engaging.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom than competitor EVs, though legroom was average. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,818 litres with them folded. The ID.4 lacked a "frunk" but compensated with a spacious cabin. Forward visibility was good, but rearward visibility was hindered by thick rear pillars. The interior featured a unique twist-grip gear selector, though storage space was limited.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, in RS trim, offered seating for seven with captain's chairs in the second row. It featured 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 provided generous legroom and headroom, though the third-row seats were less comfortable than those in larger SUVs. Cargo space was ample, with 651 litres behind the third row, 1,637 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 2,781 litres. The Traverse also offered hidden storage compartments for added convenience.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional 12-inch screen. It featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 5.3-inch display screen for the instrument cluster, and haptic touchpads for controls. While the setup looked modern, it was challenging to use due to the lack of tactile feedback. The ID.4 also included a natural-language voice-control system and the ID.Light feature, which communicated information through a light strip.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the LS model, with an 8-inch high-definition display in higher trims. It supported Bluetooth connectivity for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and connected services like a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Traverse's voice recognition system was responsive and accurate, enhancing the user experience. The RS trim included a digital rearview mirror, surround-view camera, and rear cross-traffic alert system for added convenience.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA for RWD versions. It offered a range of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. New features like Travel Assist and Emergency Assist were also available, enhancing highway driving and safety.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, 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, though it was rated Acceptable in the new side impact test and Poor for its LED headlights and seatbelt reminders.