2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was a practical choice for those who needed the utility of a minivan but preferred the aesthetics of an SUV. It offered a range of trims, starting with the base LS at $39,498 in Canada, with AWD 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, priced at $52,997, showcased blacked-out trim and 20-inch wheels, adding a sporty touch to its appearance. 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 Toyota RAV4, a staple in the crossover SUV market, continued to evolve from its origins as a "cute ute" to a mature and sophisticated vehicle. The 2022 model, part of a 2019 redesign, maintained its position as a sales leader in Canada. Its exterior design was characterized by angular wheel arches and expressive headlights, giving it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 featured a layered dash with contrasting textures and colours, anchored by an uncomplicated centre stack. The touchscreen interface was well-positioned for easy access, and the interior design included unique geometric patterns that tied the cabin together. The RAV4's design and quality fit and finish contributed to its appeal.

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 driving modes for various conditions, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The Traverse's fuel economy was rated at 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with our test vehicle achieving 11.3 L/100 km. The ride quality was pleasant, with a firm feel for the road, though it required caution over speed humps and drainage dips. On the highway, the Traverse excelled, though road and wind noise were noticeable. In mountainous terrain, the Traverse felt athletic, with its V6 drivetrain, steering, and brakes performing well. However, the RS trim's all-season tires and softer suspension at higher speeds affected its handling.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains, with the gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered both FWD and AWD options. The RAV4's fuel economy ranged from 7.9 to 8.5 L/100 km combined, depending on the drivetrain. The RAV4 Hybrid and Prime models provided additional power and efficiency, with the Prime offering 302 horsepower and the ability to run on electricity alone for up to 68 kilometres. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and AWD models featuring Multi-Terrain Select and dynamic torque vectoring. The gasoline Trail AWD model delivered smooth power and responsive acceleration, with three drive modes to tailor performance.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven with captain's chairs in the RS trim, providing comfort and easy access to the third row. The interior 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 entry and exit. The Traverse's cargo space was generous, with 651 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,637 litres with the seats folded flat. The maximum cargo volume was 2,781 litres, making it one of the roomiest SUVs in its segment. Hidden storage compartments added convenience, and the Traverse's design catered to families with thoughtful features like cupholders and bins.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, while classified as a small SUV, offered impressive cargo capacity with 1,059 litres behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded flat. It had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, with Trail and TRD Off-Road models rated to tow up to 1,588 kilograms. Inside, the RAV4 provided comfortable seating for four, with ample legroom and headroom in the front seats. The XLE grade added dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat. The cabin featured numerous storage options, including cupholders, bottle holders, and a roomy glove compartment. The RAV4's interior design prioritized practicality and comfort.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the LS model, while other trims featured an 8-inch high-definition display. The system offered Bluetooth connectivity for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and access to connected services, including a Wi-Fi hotspot. The RS trim included a Bose premium sound system, though it was not particularly impressive. The voice recognition system was responsive and accurate, enhancing the user experience. The Traverse also offered a digital rearview mirror and a surround-view camera for improved visibility.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a six-speaker audio system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen with an 11-speaker JBL audio system, navigation, and additional connected services. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology, including multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and ambient illumination. Top trim levels offered a wireless smartphone charging pad, a bird's-eye view camera system, and a digital rear-view mirror. The RAV4's technology package catered to tech-savvy drivers with its comprehensive features.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional safety features, such as rear parking assist sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, were available on higher trims. 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 NHTSA had not published crash-test ratings for the 2022 Traverse at the time of review.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 featured Toyota's Star Safety System, which included enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock braking, and more. It also offered Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with features like a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and road-sign assist. In Canada, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The NHTSA awarded the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid their highest five-star rating.