2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Toyota Sienna stood as a testament to Toyota's commitment to the minivan segment, even as other manufacturers shifted focus to SUVs. With a history dating back to the original Van in 1984, the Sienna evolved through several generations, culminating in the fourth-generation model launched in 2021. This iteration embraced a more SUV-like aesthetic, featuring a bold front end and cleverly engineered sliding doors that integrated seamlessly into the body. Inside, the Sienna offered a spacious and versatile cabin, with ample storage solutions and comfortable seating for all passengers. The interior design avoided the typical minivan feel, providing a more refined and uncluttered experience for drivers and passengers alike.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse presented itself as a crossover SUV, appealing to those who preferred the SUV label over a minivan. The Traverse featured a restyled exterior with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs, along with various appearance packages for added customization. The RS trim, in particular, showcased blacked-out trim and dark gray 20-inch wheels, contributing to its sporty appearance. Inside, the Traverse offered a mix of materials, with some hard plastic surfaces but a generally well-laid-out interior. The cabin was equipped with black leather upholstery and red stitching, providing a modern and somewhat sporty feel. Despite its SUV classification, the Traverse maintained a practical and spacious interior, accommodating families with ease.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was powered by a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. This setup provided a smooth and efficient driving experience, aided by an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Sienna offered four selectable drive modes—Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport—allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences. The hybrid system delivered impressive fuel efficiency, with Natural Resources Canada ratings of 6.6 L/100 km in city driving for FWD models and slightly higher for AWD versions. The Sienna's handling was commendable for a minivan, with minimal body roll and a comfortable ride, thanks to its advanced suspension system.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, on the other hand, 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. This powertrain provided ample power for the Traverse's size, and the SUV offered various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road, to suit different conditions. The Traverse's fuel economy was rated at 11.8 L/100 km in combined driving, with our test vehicle achieving 11.3 L/100 km. The Traverse delivered a firm yet compliant ride, absorbing road imperfections well, though it required caution over larger bumps. On the highway, the Traverse excelled, though road and wind noise were more pronounced than desired. The SUV's handling was predictable, with good steering and braking performance, making it a reliable choice for family road trips.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and versatility, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. The sliding second row added flexibility for loading cargo, with measurements of 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna's third-row bench easily folded into the floor, and the power-operated sliding doors and liftgate offered convenience for busy families. The Sienna also boasted a 1,585-kilogram towing capacity, making it a practical choice for those needing to haul additional loads.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered a spacious interior, though the RS, Premier, and High Country trims featured captain's chairs, reducing seating capacity to seven. The Traverse RS came with 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 easy access to the third row. While the Traverse's third-row seating was not as comfortable as some competitors, it provided adequate space for adults. The Traverse offered generous storage solutions, including 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 a maximum of 2,781 litres.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. However, it lacked wireless connectivity for these features, which was a notable omission. The Sienna offered various telematics services, Bluetooth connectivity, and optional Qi wireless charging. Higher trim levels featured upgraded audio systems, with a 12-speaker JBL system available. A rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display was also offered, providing entertainment for passengers on long journeys. The Sienna's digital rearview mirror and Smart Key System added convenience and safety to the driving experience.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system on the LS model, with an 8-inch display on higher trims. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Bluetooth connectivity for two smartphones simultaneously. The Traverse offered a Wi-Fi hotspot, Teen Driver technology, and an available navigation system. The RS trim came with a Bose premium sound system, though it was not particularly impressive. The Traverse's voice recognition system was highly effective, reducing frustration when using the infotainment system. The available digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera enhanced visibility and safety.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna also featured blind-spot monitoring, 10 airbags, and a rear-seat reminder system. The Star Safety System provided additional safety features, such as stability control and traction control. The Sienna's tire-pressure monitoring system and inflator kit were standard, with an optional spare tire for added convenience.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. The Traverse also offered a Safety Package with additional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims included adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse's driving aids were generally accurate and refined, though it lacked advanced lane-centring assist. The IIHS rated the Traverse as Good in most categories, with some areas needing improvement. The NHTSA had not published crash-test ratings for the 2022 model at the time of writing.