2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner retained its rugged, adventure-ready design, reminiscent of its 1980s SUV roots. Unlike many modern SUVs that have shifted to car-based platforms, the 4Runner maintained its connection to the Toyota Tacoma pickup, offering a high ride height, boxy proportions, and a sharply angled front bumper for tackling obstacles. Inside, the 4Runner's design was functional but dated, with a dash layout reminiscent of the late 2000s. In Canada, the 4Runner was available in Trail and SR5 models, with various TRD and Limited package configurations. Standard features included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Toyota Safety Sense P driver assistance features. The Trail model, which we drove, featured unique 17-inch alloy wheels, a Yakima LoadWarrior cargo basket, and a sliding rear cargo deck.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, on the other hand, was a more modern take on the family SUV, offering a stylish design with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs. The Traverse RS trim, which we tested, featured blacked-out trim and dark gray 20-inch wheels, giving it a sleek appearance. Inside, the Traverse RS boasted black leather upholstery with red and light gray contrast stitching, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The second-row Smart Slide function and long rear doors made accessing the third-row seats easier. The Traverse's interior was spacious, with generous legroom and headroom for second-row passengers, although the captain's chairs lacked leg support. The Traverse offered ample storage space, including a hidden compartment behind the infotainment screen and another under the cargo floor.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD with low range. While the engine was reliable, it felt underwhelming in most driving situations, and the ride was harsh and cumbersome, with significant body roll. However, off-road, the 4Runner excelled, with its suspension absorbing rocks and bumps effortlessly. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models included features like Crawl Control and a locking differential, enhancing their off-road capabilities. The 4Runner had a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds).

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse's tow rating matched the 4Runner's at 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds) when properly equipped. The V6 engine provided adequate power for the Traverse's size, and the SUV offered a firm yet compliant ride. On the highway, the Traverse was comfortable, though road and wind noise were noticeable. In the mountains, the Traverse felt more athletic than some rivals, with its V6 drivetrain, Active Return Assist steering, and Duralife brakes performing well. However, the RS trim's all-season tires and the vehicle's tendency to feel disconnected from the road at higher speeds were drawbacks.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum cargo capacity of 2,540 litres in the two-row version, with 1,337 litres of space behind the second row. The three-row model's cargo space was slightly reduced, with 2,514 litres maximum and 1,311 litres behind the second row. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-open/close rear window for easy access. While the 4Runner's cabin was functional, it felt less spacious than more modern SUVs.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, with its RS trim, offered seating for seven with captain's chairs in the second row. The Traverse's interior was spacious, with generous legroom and headroom for second-row passengers. The Smart Slide function and wide pass-through made accessing the third-row seats easier. Cargo space behind the third-row seats measured 651 litres, expanding to 1,637 litres with the third row folded flat. The maximum cargo volume was 2,781 litres, making the Traverse one of the roomiest SUVs in its segment.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and SiriusXM satellite radio. While the system was straightforward and relied on tactile controls, it lacked advanced features like a head-up display. The optional 15-speaker JBL premium audio system was available for those seeking enhanced sound quality.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system on the LS model, with an 8-inch high-definition display on higher trims. The system included Bluetooth connectivity for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Traverse RS trim featured a Bose premium sound system, though it was not particularly impressive. The voice recognition system was responsive and accurate, reducing frustration when using the infotainment system. The Traverse also offered a digital rearview mirror and a surround-view camera for improved visibility.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, which included forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. The 4Runner earned four out of five stars in frontal and side-impact testing from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, but only three stars for rollover testing. It had not been evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

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, automatic high-beam headlights, and a following-distance indicator. Higher trims offered additional features like adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse received Good ratings in most categories from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety but was rated Acceptable in the new side impact test and Poor for its LED headlights and seatbelt reminders. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration had not published crash-test ratings for the 2022 Traverse at the time of writing.