2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was a practical choice for those who needed an SUV but didn't want to compromise on style. It offered a balance between utility and aesthetics, with a design that included new headlights, taillights, and grille designs. The RS trim, in particular, featured blacked-out trim and dark gray 20-inch wheels, making it one of the more appealing vehicles in its segment. Inside, the Traverse RS boasted 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 logical, with user-friendly controls for stereo and climate settings.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid embraced a bold design with its angular LED headlights and distinctive “boomerang” LED daytime running lights. The interior was centred around a large infotainment display, offering a minimalist and elegant look. The use of SynTex artificial leather was promoted as an “animal-free” alternative, though it felt somewhat cheap. The SX trim added gloss black plastic trim, which, while initially attractive, quickly showed fingerprints and glare. Overall, the Sportage Hybrid presented a modern and stylish cabin environment.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured 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 included driving modes for various conditions. The Traverse delivered a firm yet comfortable ride, though it was prone to scraping on larger road anomalies. On highways, it provided a pleasant driving experience, albeit with noticeable road and wind noise. The V6 engine performed well in mountainous areas, but the all-season tires and softer suspension at higher speeds were less impressive.

The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid used a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing 227 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The powertrain offered smooth and predictable acceleration, with seamless transitions between electric and gasoline power. The Sportage Hybrid’s transmission was well-tuned, providing smooth shifts and quick responses. While not a driver’s car, it offered a quiet cabin and comfortable ride. The steering, however, felt artificially heavy in Sport mode. The Sportage Hybrid had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms, less than its non-hybrid counterpart.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven with captain’s chairs in the RS trim, providing easy access to the third row. The interior featured power-adjustable heated front seats and triple-zone climate control. The Traverse excelled in storage, with a hidden compartment behind the infotainment screen and generous cargo space. It offered 651 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,781 litres with seats folded.

The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid, while slightly less spacious than its non-hybrid version, remained competitive. It offered a dual-level cargo floor, providing 1,118 litres of space with rear seats up and 2,087 litres with them folded. The Sportage Hybrid included clever storage solutions, such as a rotary shift knob and adaptable cupholders. The interior was designed for practicality, with ample space for phones and drinks.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth connectivity, 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 enhanced visibility.

The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen, with the SX trim adding a panoramic display. The system offered wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with touch controls for audio and climate settings. The SX trim included additional USB-C ports and an upgraded Harman Kardon audio system.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse included Chevy Safety Assist as standard, with features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse received Good ratings from the IIHS, but its headlights and seatbelt reminders were rated poorly.

The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid’s EX trim included standard safety features like forward collision avoidance and adaptive cruise control. The SX trim added advanced features such as a blind-spot view monitor and Highway Driving Assist. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of testing.