2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was a practical choice for those who needed the utility of a minivan but preferred the styling of an SUV. It offered a range of trims, starting with the base LS at $39,498 in Canada, with all-wheel drive as standard. The Traverse underwent a light restyle for 2022, featuring new headlights, taillights, and grille designs, along with updated colour choices. The RS trim, which we tested, showcased blacked-out trim and dark gray 20-inch wheels, giving it a distinctive look. Inside, the Traverse RS featured black leather upholstery with red and light gray stitching, though the use of hard plastics on upper door panels was a downside. The interior layout was simple and logical, with user-friendly controls for the stereo and climate systems.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, maintained its sleek design with subtle updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned rear liftgate. The Signature trim added body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing its premium appeal. Inside, the CX-5's Signature trim exuded luxury with Nappa leather upholstery and real wood trim. The new seats provided improved comfort and support, addressing previous complaints. The driving position was sportier, and the interior featured dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the back seat remained snug, and the infotainment system's lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition was a drawback.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. It offered a tow rating of 2,268 kilograms and featured various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The Traverse delivered a firm yet compliant ride, though it required caution over speed humps and drainage dips. On the highway, it provided a comfortable ride, albeit with noticeable road and wind noise. In mountainous terrain, the Traverse felt athletic, with its V6 engine, Active Return Assist steering, and Duralife brakes performing well. However, the RS trim's all-season tires and the vehicle's tendency to feel disconnected on undulating roads were noted.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged version producing up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas. The revised 6-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive contributed to its responsive performance. The CX-5's fuel consumption was rated at 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres for the base engine and 9.8 L/100 km for the turbocharged version. The Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) system provided Normal, Sport, and Off-Road modes. The CX-5's improved structural rigidity and suspension tuning resulted in a quieter, smoother, and sportier ride, with reduced body roll and enhanced driving dynamics.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven in the RS trim, 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 Smart Slide function and long rear doors facilitated access to the third row. While the second-row captain's chairs provided generous legroom, they lacked leg support for adults. The third-row seat accommodated adults with cooperation from second-row passengers. The Traverse boasted ample storage space, including a hidden compartment behind the infotainment screen and another under the cargo floor. Cargo capacity ranged from 651 litres behind the third row to a maximum of 2,781 litres.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints with new, more comfortable seats and a sportier driving position. The interior featured leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. The back seat remained snug, but heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents improved passenger comfort. The control layout, however, was frustrating due to the lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition. Storage space was adequate, with a small centre armrest bin and wireless smartphone charging. Cargo capacity was 871 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,680 litres with the back seat folded.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, depending on the trim. It offered Bluetooth connectivity for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The RS trim featured a Bose premium sound system, though it was not particularly impressive. The voice recognition system was responsive and accurate, enhancing the user experience. Visibility was generally good, with the digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera aiding in parking.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, though it lacked touch-sensing capability and natural voice recognition. Users had to rely on centre console and steering wheel controls. While the system required acclimation, it offered standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mazda Connected Services. The GT and higher trims included a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, which performed adequately. SiriusXM satellite radio was also available.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured Chevy Safety Assist as standard, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, rear pedestrian alert, and the Safety Alert Seat. The Traverse received Good ratings from the IIHS in most categories but was rated Acceptable in the new side impact test and Poor for its LED headlights and seatbelt reminders.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came with the i-Activsense package, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, a distinction few rivals could match.