2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was a practical choice for those who needed the functionality 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 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 20-inch wheels, giving it a sporty 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 was logically laid out, with user-friendly controls for the stereo and climate systems.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was redesigned with a more rugged and substantial appearance, making it larger than its predecessor. The fourth-generation model was 8.6 centimetres longer, up to 3.8 cm wider, and 2 cm taller. The TrailSport model gained legitimate off-road parts, including a taller ride height and underbody skid plates. Inside, the Pilot took a more conventional styling route, with materials that met class expectations. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard in Canada. The Pilot emphasized function over form, offering a tidy and utilitarian aesthetic that was preferred over the previous generation.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. It had a tow rating of 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) when properly equipped. The Traverse offered various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The V6 engine provided adequate power, though it could whine under acceleration. The official fuel economy rating was 11.8 L/100 km in combined driving, with our test car achieving 11.3 L/100 km. The Traverse offered a firm yet compliant ride, though it could scrape the front air dam on larger road anomalies. On the highway, it was comfortable but had noticeable road and wind noise. The Traverse felt athletic in the mountains, with good steering and braking performance, though the all-season tires were not ideal for spirited driving.

The 2023 Honda Pilot featured a new 3.5-litre V6 engine with 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Honda’s i-VTM4 AWD system was standard in Canada. The Pilot offered quick acceleration with a pleasant engine sound. The brake pedal was soft but easy to modulate. The Pilot cornered well for a three-row SUV, with noticeable body roll but no alarming rebounds. It was tuned for comfort, with light steering effort. The TrailSport model increased ground clearance by 2.5 cm and added all-terrain tires, which introduced subtle vibrations on pavement. The Pilot maintained on-road composure and comfort, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs).

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven with captain’s chairs in the RS trim. 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 in the second row, though the captain’s chairs lacked leg support. The third row was less comfortable but better than many rivals. The Traverse had ample storage, including a hidden compartment behind the infotainment screen and another under the cargo floor. Cargo space was 651 litres behind the third row, 1,637 litres with the third row folded, and 2,781 litres maximum.

The 2023 Honda Pilot featured a more conventional interior with a handy dash shelf. The entry-level Sport trim had a seven-inch touchscreen, while higher trims had a nine-inch display. The Touring trim included a wireless charging pad and USB ports in every row. The Pilot’s standout feature was the stowable second-row centre seat, which could be removed to create a pass-through for third-row access. The second row offered ample space for adults, while the third row was less inviting. Cargo space was 635 litres behind the third row, 1,685 to 1,702 litres with the third row folded, and 3,219 litres maximum. A power tailgate was standard, with hands-free operation on higher trims.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a 7-inch touchscreen on the LS model, while other trims had an 8-inch display. The infotainment system supported Bluetooth for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and connected services. The RS trim included a Bose premium sound system, though it was not particularly impressive. The voice recognition system was effective, and the digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera were useful features.

The 2023 Honda Pilot’s EX-L trim and above offered a larger touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. The Touring trim added a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was responsive and logically laid out, with features like Honda's CabinTalk for rear-seat communication. The Touring trim also included a navigation system and Bose premium audio.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured standard Chevy Safety Assist, including 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 was rated Poor for its LED headlights and seatbelt reminders. NHTSA ratings were not available.

The 2023 Honda Pilot earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing features included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added parking sensors and surround-view cameras. The safety features functioned well, with no false alarms during testing.