2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2023 Acura MDX

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 all-wheel drive as standard. The Traverse featured a modest ground clearance of 19 centimetres, making it suitable for snowy conditions and light off-road trails. The 2022 model received a subtle facelift with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs, along with various appearance packages like the Redline Edition. The RS trim, priced at $52,997, showcased blacked-out trim and 20-inch wheels, adding a sporty touch to its design. Inside, the Traverse RS boasted black leather upholstery with contrasting stitching, though it was criticized for its use of hard plastics in areas where comfort was expected. The interior layout was straightforward, with user-friendly controls for the stereo and climate systems.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX presented a more luxurious and performance-oriented option. Available in standard and Type S versions, the MDX offered a range of trims, with prices starting at $66,300 for the A-Spec trim in Canada. The Type S Ultra trim, priced at $84,400, featured exclusive Apex Blue Pearl paint and a white interior. The MDX Type S was the first Acura SUV to bear the Type S badge, emphasizing subtlety in its design with chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels. Inside, the Type S Ultra trim offered quilted leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package. However, some design choices, like the gloss black dashboard, were criticized for hindering usability. The MDX's electronic transmission switchgear also received mixed reviews, with some drivers finding it confusing. Despite these quirks, the MDX Type S was praised for its overall appeal and luxury features.

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 had a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms and offered various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The Traverse's V6 engine provided adequate power for its size, though it emitted a slight whine under acceleration. Fuel economy was rated at 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with the test vehicle achieving 11.3 L/100 km. The Traverse delivered a firm yet comfortable ride, with good road feel and predictable handling. However, it was noted for its road and wind noise on the highway and a distorted driver's side mirror.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S stood out with its turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, generating 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system. The MDX Type S offered multiple driving modes, including Sport+ and an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. Despite its performance enhancements, the MDX Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive driving experience. The transmission was indecisive, and the ride lacked compliance, leading to squealing tires and poor brake pedal modulation. Fuel economy was disappointing, with the test vehicle averaging 13.9 L/100 km. The MDX Type S was more agreeable in Normal mode but fell short of its performance-oriented mission.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered a spacious interior with seating for seven passengers in the RS trim, featuring captain's chairs in the second row. It included power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The Smart Slide function in the second row facilitated easy access to the third row. While the third-row seat was not as comfortable as some competitors, it provided better accommodations than many rivals. The Traverse excelled in cargo space, with 651 litres behind the third row, 1,637 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,781 litres. It also featured hidden storage compartments for added convenience.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows of seating, with the option to remove the centre section of the second row for a pass-through. The Type S Ultra trim included 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row seats were comfortable and supportive, with heating available in Canada. However, the third row was best suited for children due to limited space. The MDX prioritized style over storage, with a small bin under the front centre armrest. The cargo area provided 461 litres of space behind the third row, 1,107 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,021 litres. The Type S featured a hands-free liftgate with a Walk Away Close function for added convenience.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, depending on the trim level. It offered Bluetooth connectivity for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The RS trim included a Bose premium sound system, though it was not particularly impressive. The voice recognition system was praised for its accuracy and ease of use. The Traverse also featured a digital rearview mirror and a surround-view camera for improved visibility.

The 2023 Acura MDX boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. However, the infotainment screen was not touch-sensitive, requiring the use of a True Touchpad Interface. The system included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In. The MDX offered several sound systems, with the top-tier ELS Studio 3D audio system delivering exceptional sound quality. The Platinum Elite and Type S Ultra packages added a 10.5-inch head-up display. However, the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs, leading to incorrect speed limit suggestions.

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. Additional safety features were available through optional packages. 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. NHTSA ratings were not available at the time of review.

The 2023 Acura MDX included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as collision mitigation braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. It also offered blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, the adaptive cruise control system was noted for its slow resumption of speed, and the traffic sign recognition system occasionally issued false warnings.