2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2022 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent subtle styling changes, enhancing its sporty appearance with a new front fascia featuring "air blades" and a redesigned rear bumper that concealed the tailpipes. The updated front grille, which housed sensors for driver-assist systems behind a heated Volvo logo, contributed to a sleeker look. Built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, the XC60 shared its foundation with other Volvo models, ensuring a consistent design language. Inside, the XC60 retained its clean design, highlighted by a new digital instrument cluster and a portrait-oriented touchscreen. While the interior was generally subdued, the B6 R-Design model added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats. The Inscription trim offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel for a touch of luxury.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, often seen as a practical alternative to larger SUVs, offered a refreshed look with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs. The Traverse's exterior was further enhanced by various appearance packages, such as the Redline, Midnight, and Sport Editions, which added blacked-out trim. The RS trim, positioned between the LS and High Country models, featured dark gray 20-inch wheels and blacked-out accents, making it one of the more visually appealing options in its segment. Inside, the Traverse RS boasted black leather upholstery with contrast stitching, a black headliner, and gloss black trim. While hard plastic surfaces were prevalent, the interior layout was logical and user-friendly, with matte-finish switchgear reducing glare. The Traverse's design emphasized practicality, with features like easy-to-use stereo controls and climate knobs.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 options. Both powertrains combined a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electrical system, providing an additional 13 horsepower in short bursts. The B6 variant also included an electric supercharger. The B5 delivered 258 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the B6 offered 295 hp and 310 lb-ft. Both used an eight-speed automatic transmission and came with standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The XC60 B5 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and the B6 in 5.9 seconds. The XC60's smooth power delivery and comfortable ride, enhanced by optional air suspension, emphasized luxury over sportiness. The plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft, while the Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, with a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.9 seconds.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a single engine option: a 3.6-litre V6 producing 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse's tow rating was 2,268 kilograms when properly equipped, with various driving modes like Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road to suit different conditions. The V6 engine provided adequate power for the Traverse's size, with a fuel economy rating of 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The Traverse offered a firm yet compliant ride, absorbing smaller road imperfections well. On highways, it excelled, though road and wind noise were noticeable. In mountainous areas, the Traverse demonstrated athleticism, with its V6 engine, Active Return Assist steering, and Duralife brakes performing admirably. However, the RS trim's all-season tires and the vehicle's tendency to feel disconnected at higher speeds were noted drawbacks.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained its competitive stance in passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom, tying with the Audi Q5 for the least in its segment. Legroom was average, and cargo space for mild-hybrid models was 611 litres with rear seats up and 1,410 litres with them folded. Plug-in hybrid models offered slightly less cargo capacity. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, particularly in RS, Premier, or High Country trims, offered seven-passenger seating with second-row captain's chairs. The RS trim featured power-adjustable heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The second-row Smart Slide function and long rear doors facilitated third-row access. The Traverse's interior provided generous legroom and headroom, though second-row captain's chairs lacked leg support. The third row accommodated adults if second-row passengers cooperated. The Traverse excelled in storage, with hidden compartments and ample cargo space. It offered 651 litres behind the third row, 1,637 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 2,781 litres, making it one of the roomiest in its segment.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul, featuring a 9-inch touchscreen with Android Automotive OS, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The system integrated Google Assistant for voice control, Google Maps for navigation, and access to third-party apps via the Google Play Store. Over-the-air updates were supported, and iPhone compatibility was promised. The system's graphics were praised, though Apple users might have differing opinions. The digital instrument cluster offered a "Calm" setting to minimize distractions.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a 7-inch touchscreen on the LS model, while other trims had an 8-inch high-definition display. The system supported Bluetooth for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and connected services like a Wi-Fi hotspot. Teen Driver technology was standard, and higher trims offered integrated navigation, SiriusXM 360L, and a Bose premium sound system. The Traverse's infotainment system was user-friendly, with excellent voice recognition. Visibility was generally good, with a digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera aiding maneuverability.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the 2021 model received top ratings. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. An optional driver assistance system combined adaptive cruise control and automated lane centring.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured standard Chevy Safety Assist, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, automatic high-beam headlights, and a following-distance indicator. A Safety Package added rear parking assist, blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assist, 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, with some areas needing improvement.