2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2023 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was a practical choice for those who needed an SUV but didn't want to compromise on style or budget. It offered a range of trims, starting from 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, making it one of the most appealing vehicles in its segment. Inside, the Traverse RS boasted black leather upholstery with red and light gray stitching, though hard plastic surfaces were prevalent. The interior was logically laid out, with user-friendly controls for the stereo and climate systems.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia made a bold statement with its redesigned exterior, drawing inspiration from the Toyota Tundra. The Sequoia Capstone trim level featured an industrial-themed interior with leather, wood, and metallic finishes. A massive 14-inch infotainment system dominated the dashboard, and the Capstone's interior came in a luxurious cream white-over-black colour scheme. The Sequoia's lineup included various trims, with prices starting at $79,335 for the TRD Off-road and reaching $95,335 for the Capstone. While the Sequoia offered impressive off-road capabilities, its ground clearance and approach angles were less capable than the previous model. The TRD Off-road trim provided a more affordable option with off-road enhancements, making it a versatile choice for adventurous drivers.

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 tow rating of 2,268 kilograms and offered various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The Traverse delivered a firm yet comfortable ride, with a fuel economy rating of 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. On the highway, it provided a pleasant ride, though road and wind noise were noticeable. The Traverse's handling was predictable, and it performed well in mountainous terrain, thanks to its V6 drivetrain and suspension.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia featured a hybrid powertrain with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and an electric motor, delivering 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. It boasted a maximum tow rating of 4,137 kilograms and improved fuel efficiency, with a rating of 11.7 L/100 km in combined driving. The Sequoia offered various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Sport+, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. While the Sequoia's ride quality was busy in urban settings, it excelled on smooth highways. The steering was slow, and the regenerative braking system felt unresponsive, but the Sequoia's power and torque made it a capable performer.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered a spacious interior with seating for up to seven passengers in the RS trim, thanks to captain's chairs in the second row. It featured power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The Smart Slide function in the second row made accessing the third-row seat easier. The Traverse provided ample cargo space, with 651 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 2,781 litres with all seats folded. Hidden storage compartments added to its practicality, making it a family-friendly choice.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia excelled on open roads, offering comfortable front seats with soft leather upholstery and a triple-zone climate control system. The Sequoia's second-row captain's chairs did not slide, limiting flexibility for third-row passengers. The third-row seat was less comfortable due to its high floor and low roof. Cargo space was limited, with 325 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 2,460 litres with all seats folded. The Sequoia's hybrid powertrain compromised its overall utility, but it offered an adjustable cargo shelf for added versatility.

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 featured a Bose premium sound system and a digital rearview mirror. The voice recognition system was responsive and accurate, enhancing the overall user experience. The Traverse's available digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera system improved visibility and safety.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia featured a new Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen in the base trim and a 14-inch touchscreen in higher trims. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with connected services and an Intelligent Assistant. The Sequoia's infotainment system allowed for user accounts and simultaneous Bluetooth pairing. The Capstone trim included a 10-inch head-up display and a surround-view camera system. The Sequoia's parking sensors and automatic rear braking system enhanced safety in parking situations.

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 blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, were available in higher trims. The Traverse received Good ratings from the IIHS in most categories but had Acceptable and Poor ratings in specific tests.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features as standard, including Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 (TSS 2.5), which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centring assist, adaptive cruise control, and road sign recognition. The Sequoia also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. While crash-test ratings were not available, the Sequoia's platform shared with the Tundra received high ratings from the IIHS.