2022 Volkswagen Taos vs 2022 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was positioned as a compact SUV, bridging the gap between subcompact and compact crossovers. It competed with models like the Kia Seltos, Jeep Compass, and Subaru Crosstrek. The Taos was available in Trendline, Comfortline, and Highline trims, with a single engine option. The base model offered a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and 4Motion all-wheel drive (AWD). The Taos's design was consistent with Volkswagen's lineup, featuring roof rails, dark grey plastic cladding, and skid plates. However, the interior was criticized for its hard plastic surfaces, though it offered soft-touch materials in key areas. The Highline trim boasted two-tone perforated leather and an upscale dashboard.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, while often compared to a minivan, was a practical choice for those seeking an SUV. It started at $39,498 in Canada, with AWD as standard. The Traverse received a light restyle for 2022, with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs. The RS trim, which was tested, featured blacked-out trim and dark grey 20-inch wheels. The Traverse was praised for its styling restraint, with crisp lines and tasteful details. Inside, the RS trim had black leather upholstery with red and light grey stitching. The interior design was simple and logical, with matte-finish black switchgear. However, hard plastic surfaces were prevalent, especially on the upper door panels.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The engine's torque delivery was delayed, leading to a sudden surge of power. The 4Motion AWD system, paired with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission, offered spirited performance but was marred by erratic shifting. The standard 8-speed automatic transmission provided smoother driving but was only available with FWD. The Taos's handling was commendable, with responsive steering and effective brakes. However, its ground clearance of 16.2 centimetres limited its off-road capabilities. Fuel efficiency was rated at 8.5 litres per 100 kilometres, with real-world testing showing 8.7 L/100 km.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse had a tow rating of 2,268 kilograms and offered various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The V6 engine was well-suited to the Traverse's size, though it whined under acceleration. The Traverse's fuel economy was rated at 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres, with testing showing 11.3 L/100 km. The Traverse provided a firm yet compliant ride, though it was prone to scraping the front air dam over speed humps. On highways, it was a comfortable cruiser, though road and wind noise were noticeable.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos offered a spacious cabin, with deeply bolstered front seats and generous rear legroom. The Highline trim featured heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Cargo space varied depending on the drive system, with FWD models offering 790 litres behind the rear seats and 1,866 litres with them folded. AWD models had slightly less cargo space. The Taos also featured a centre pass-through for skis.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, in RS trim, had a seven-passenger seating configuration with captain's chairs in the second row. The front seats were power-adjustable and heated, with triple-zone climate control. The second-row Smart Slide function and long rear doors facilitated access to the third row. Cargo space was generous, with 651 litres behind the third row and 1,637 litres with it folded. The maximum cargo volume was 2,781 litres. The Traverse also had hidden storage compartments and well-designed door panels for additional storage.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos came with a Digital Cockpit instrument cluster and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system on the Trendline trim. Higher trims featured an 8-inch touchscreen with MIB3 software, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a BeatsAudio premium sound system. However, the infotainment system's user experience was criticized for its complexity and slow response.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse LS model had a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims had an 8-inch display. The system supported Bluetooth for two devices, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The RS trim included a Bose premium sound system, though it was not particularly impressive. The Traverse's voice recognition system was praised for its accuracy and ease of use.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos required higher trims for popular safety features like forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. The Highline trim offered additional features like lane-keeping assistance and Travel Assist. Emergency Assist was a notable feature, slowing the vehicle if the driver became inactive. The Taos had not been crash-tested by major safety organizations at the time of review.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, including forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams. 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 Poor for its headlights and seatbelt reminders. NHTSA ratings were not available at the time of review.