2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim, which featured a trendy blacked-out exterior, including black 20-inch aluminum wheels and unique grille design. This trim level sat in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a sporty appearance that was previously absent. The interior of the Onyx Edition was adorned with StarTex synthetic leather in a grey two-tone scheme, complemented by metallic trim on the dashboard and door panels. However, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable feature, though they were only available on the Premier trim.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse underwent a light restyle, featuring new headlights, taillights, and grille designs, along with redesigned aluminum wheels. The RS trim, which was tested, included blacked-out trim and dark grey 20-inch wheels, giving it an appealing look. The Traverse's design was characterized by crisply tailored lines and tasteful details, making it one of the more attractive vehicles in its segment. Inside, the RS trim featured black leather upholstery with red and light grey stitching, though the abundance of hard plastic surfaces detracted from the overall feel. The interior layout was simple and logical, with user-friendly controls for the stereo and climate systems.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It came standard with a CVT and AWD, offering a fuel consumption rating of 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The Ascent's engine, with its flat-four layout, provided a lower centre of gravity for improved handling. The CVT featured eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, contributing to brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent also boasted a towing capacity of up to 2,270 kilograms. Its X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance enhanced its off-roading capabilities. However, the lane-keeping and lane-centring assistance technologies could feel unstable when engaged.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. It had a tow rating of 2,268 kilograms when properly equipped. The Traverse offered Snow and Off-Road modes, in addition to Normal mode. The V6 engine provided adequate power for the Traverse's size, with a fuel economy rating of 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The Traverse's ride quality was pleasant, though it required careful navigation over speed humps and drainage dips. On highways, the Traverse excelled, though road and wind noise were noticeable. In mountainous terrain, the Traverse demonstrated athleticism, with its V6 drivetrain, Active Return Assist steering, and Duralife brakes performing well.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight passengers with a second-row bench seat, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent offered a comfortable driving position and was equipped for winter weather with features like heated front seats and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easy to access, and captain's chairs were available on most trims. The Ascent provided ample storage, with a useful dashboard shelf and large cupholders. Cargo space measured 458 litres behind the third row, 1,193 litres behind the second row, and 2,061 litres with both rows folded.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, in RS trim, featured captain's chairs, reducing seating capacity to seven. It offered 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's cabin provided generous legroom and headroom, though the captain's chairs lacked leg support. Storage was abundant, with a hidden compartment behind the infotainment screen and another under the cargo floor. Cargo space measured 651 litres behind the third row, 1,637 litres with the third row folded, and 2,781 litres with both rows down.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system in base trim, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and satellite radio. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. The system's voice recognition technology needed improvement, and the Onyx Edition's standard stereo speakers lacked sonic quality. Additional technology features, like a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera, were reserved for the Premier trim.

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 supported Bluetooth connectivity for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and connected services, including a Wi-Fi hotspot. The 8-inch touchscreen offered navigation and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. A Bose premium sound system was standard from the RS trim. The Traverse's voice recognition system was responsive and accurate, and the available digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera enhanced visibility.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating in rollover resistance. It came standard with EyeSight driver-assist technology, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology. However, EyeSight's performance was affected by direct sunlight, and the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking.

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. A Safety Package was optional for the LS trim, adding rear parking assist sensors, 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 in most categories but was rated Acceptable in the new side impact test and Poor for its LED headlights and seatbelt reminders.