2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX presented a modern and sporty design, continuing the aesthetic enhancements from its 2020 facelift. Available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, the RX 350 offered seating for five, while the RX 450h hybrid model provided a three-row, 7-passenger option. The RX's exterior was characterized by sharp character lines and angular features, creating an aggressive yet restrained design. The F Sport models added performance-oriented styling with 20-inch wheels and unique front fascia, enhancing the vehicle's athletic appearance. Inside, the RX maintained a luxury appeal with high-quality materials, though the centre stack felt dated. The F Sport models featured sporty elements like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, comfort was compromised by less-than-ideal seating and limited lumbar support.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, despite being a crossover SUV, was often seen as a practical alternative to a minivan. It featured a light restyle for the year, with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs. The RS trim, which our test vehicle was, included blacked-out trim and dark gray 20-inch wheels, contributing to its appealing design. The Traverse's interior was equipped with black leather upholstery and gloss black trim, though hard plastic surfaces were prevalent. The layout was simple and logical, with matte-finish switchgear reducing glare. The Traverse offered a firm yet compliant ride, with a V6 engine that provided adequate power for its size. However, road and wind noise were noticeable on the highway, and the driver's side mirror distortion was a minor issue.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the RX 450h hybrid model offered a combined output of 308 hp. All models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of sporty dynamics even in the F Sport trim. The engine's sound was more akin to a turbocharged four-cylinder, and acceleration was unimpressive. The RX offered various drive modes, but differences between them were minimal. However, the RX excelled in driving comfort and cabin quietness, providing a serene ride. Fuel efficiency varied, with the RX 350 using 12.2 L/100 km in the city and 9.0 on the highway, while the RX 450h hybrid achieved 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse offered a tow rating of 2,268 kilograms and featured various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The V6 engine provided adequate power, though it whined under acceleration. The Traverse's fuel economy was rated at 11.8 L/100 km combined, with our test vehicle achieving 11.3 L/100 km. The Traverse offered a firm yet compliant ride, though it was prone to scraping the front air dam over larger road anomalies. On the highway, the Traverse was comfortable but had noticeable road and wind noise. In mountainous terrain, the Traverse felt more athletic than some rivals, with good steering and braking performance.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in its two-row configuration, comfortably seating four adults. The three-row L models had limited space for anything beyond groceries, with a 2/3/2 seating configuration. Cargo space in the standard RX was 453 litres behind the second row, expanding to 923 litres with the seats folded. The three-row models offered 210 litres with all seats upright, increasing to 1,657 litres with both back rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder, though the rear seats did not fold completely flat.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, in RS trim, offered seven-passenger seating with second-row captain's chairs. The interior 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 easier access to the third row. The Traverse provided generous legroom and headroom, though the captain's chairs lacked leg support. Cargo space was abundant, with 651 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,637 litres with the seats folded. The maximum cargo volume was 2,781 litres, making the Traverse one of the roomiest SUVs in its segment.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with an 8-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.3-inch version available. The touchscreens were moved closer to the driver in a previous refresh, but their positioning remained ergonomically unfriendly. The infotainment system was responsive, but the touchpad was hypersensitive and unintuitive. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity options.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the LS model, with an 8-inch display in higher trims. The system offered Bluetooth connectivity for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The 8-inch system included navigation, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and a Bose premium sound system. The voice recognition system was effective, and the Traverse offered good visibility, with a digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera available.

The 2022 Lexus RX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and a pre-collision system. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, but only with optional triple-beam LED headlights. It received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with Chevy Safety Assist, featuring forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. A Safety Package added rear parking assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse received Good ratings from the IIHS, but Acceptable in the new side impact test and Poor for its headlights.