2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was a practical choice for those needing an SUV without the bulk and expense of larger models. It offered a stylish alternative to a minivan, with a design that balanced utility and aesthetics. The Traverse featured a light restyle with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs, along with various appearance packages like the Redline Edition. The RS trim, in particular, showcased blacked-out trim and 20-inch wheels, making it one of the more appealing options in its segment. 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.

In contrast, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe maintained a more conservative exterior design, which was set to change with the 2024 redesign. The Santa Fe was available in four trims in Canada, all with standard AWD. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim, tested in a unique Stormy Sea paint, featured a black interior with Nappa leather seats, offering a high-quality feel. The cabin was dark and monotone, but options for beige or grey interiors provided visual contrast. The Santa Fe excelled in comfort, with heated and cooled front seats and heated second-row seats, making it a strong contender in its class.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a single 3.6-litre V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. It had a tow rating of 2,268 kilograms and offered various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The Traverse delivered a firm yet compliant ride, though it was prone to scraping on larger road anomalies. On highways, it provided a comfortable ride despite some road and wind noise. The V6 engine performed well in mountainous areas, with good steering and braking, though the all-season tires were less impressive.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a choice between a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine with 191 horsepower and a turbocharged version with 281 horsepower. The turbocharged engine, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, provided immediate acceleration and passing power, especially in Sport mode. The Santa Fe's handling was smooth, with minimal body lean, and the turbocharged model could tow up to 1,587 kilograms. The vehicle's performance was commendable, with brisk acceleration and a quiet ride, making it a strong competitor in its price range.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven with captain’s chairs in higher trims, providing easy access to the third row. The interior featured power-adjustable heated front seats and triple-zone climate control. The Traverse excelled in cargo space, with 651 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 2,781 litres. It also had hidden storage compartments and Smart Slide second-row seats for easier access.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe, with its two-row configuration, provided ample rear-seat legroom and cargo space. It offered 1,032 litres behind the second row and 2,041 litres with seats folded. The Santa Fe included dual-zone climate control, a hands-free smart liftgate, and features like Remote Smart Parking Assist in higher trims. The panoramic sunroof and head-up display added to its appeal, though the wide centre console limited driver leg space slightly.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims included a digital instrumentation panel and a Bose sound system. The voice recognition system was effective, and the digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera enhanced visibility.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe excelled in technology, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, navigation, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was customizable, though voice recognition had mixed results. The Santa Fe's technology was comprehensive, offering a range of features for convenience and entertainment.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with Chevy Safety Assist, including forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control and rear pedestrian alert. The Traverse received Good ratings from the IIHS but had some areas for improvement.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe offered extensive safety features, including forward-collision avoidance and lane-centring assist. It received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. The Santa Fe's safety systems provided peace of mind, with features like safe-exit assist and rear-seat reminders.