2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, maintaining its traditional styling while adding a touch of modern flair. The XC90 retained its boxy profile and blunt front end, but with softer lines and more chrome detailing, it presented a more refined appearance. The LED headlights with "Thor's Hammer" daytime running lights were a distinctive feature that enhanced its visual appeal. The interior embraced "Swedish minimalism," offering high-quality materials and thoughtful design. The matte-finish wood trim and optional wool upholstery added a unique touch, while the Orrefors crystal shifter provided a luxurious element, albeit slightly out of place in the otherwise restrained cabin.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered a more traditional SUV aesthetic, with a light restyle that included new headlights, taillights, and grille designs. The RS trim, in particular, featured blacked-out trim and dark gray 20-inch wheels, giving it a sporty look. The Traverse's design was characterized by crisp lines and tasteful details, making it one of the more appealing vehicles in its segment. Inside, the Traverse RS boasted black leather upholstery with contrast stitching and gloss black trim. While hard plastic surfaces were prevalent, the interior layout was logical and user-friendly, with easy-to-use controls and a focus on practicality.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 variant added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid combined the T6 engine with electric motors, delivering a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. While the XC90 provided ample power, the small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' larger engines. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and offered a quiet cabin. It had a towing capacity of 2,250 kilograms, suitable for moderate loads.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a single engine option: a 3.6-litre V6 producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse's tow rating matched the XC90 at 2,268 kilograms. The V6 engine provided adequate power for the Traverse's size, and the SUV offered a pleasant ride quality, absorbing road imperfections well. However, it exhibited more road and wind noise on the highway. The Traverse's handling was predictable, with limited body roll and a flat cornering attitude. The SUV's performance was well-suited for family road trips, though the tires and suspension could feel disconnected on uneven surfaces.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom across all three rows. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. The XC90's interior felt spacious due to its upright roof profile and optional power sunroof. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats with massage, but lacked a power-adjustable steering wheel. Cargo space was limited, with 317 litres behind the third row, 965 litres with the rear seats folded, and 1,815 litres with all seats down. A hands-free power tailgate was a convenient feature.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered seven-passenger seating with second-row captain's chairs in the RS trim. The interior featured power-adjustable 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 captain's chairs lacked leg support. Cargo space was ample, with 651 litres behind the third row, 1,637 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,781 litres. The Traverse also included hidden storage compartments for added convenience.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The system was user-friendly, with a portrait-oriented touchscreen that mimicked a tablet interface. A 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and head-up display were available. However, the wireless charging pad was too small for most phones, and the lack of front USB-C ports was a drawback.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, depending on the trim. The system supported Bluetooth for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and connected services like a Wi-Fi hotspot. The RS trim included a Bose premium sound system, though it was not particularly impressive. The Traverse's voice recognition system was effective, and the available digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera enhanced visibility and safety.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. The XC90 offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which included 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 but had lower scores for side impact and headlights. NHTSA ratings were not available at the time of review.