2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while moving towards the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, leading to the current XC90, which launched as a 2016 model on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform. The XC90's design was sleek and athletic, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. The interior was described as "Scandinavian Modern" with natural wood and metal trim, offering a luxurious feel. Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030 was evident, though Nappa leather was still available for those who preferred it.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, while often compared to a minivan, offered a practical solution for those seeking an SUV without the higher costs and lower fuel efficiency of larger models. Starting at $39,498 in Canada, the Traverse featured a light restyle for 2022, with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs. The RS trim, which was tested, included blacked-out trim and dark gray 20-inch wheels. The Traverse's design was praised for its crisp lines and tasteful details, making it one of the more appealing vehicles in its segment. Inside, the Traverse RS featured black leather upholstery with contrast stitching, though hard plastic surfaces were noted as a downside.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 hp. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Recharge model boasted an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating in hybrid mode and a 29-kilometre EV range. The XC90 was praised for its handling, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, especially in the Recharge Inscription extended range model.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a single engine option: a 3.6-litre V6 producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse's tow rating was 2,268 kilograms, and it offered various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The V6 engine provided adequate power for the Traverse's size, and the SUV returned a fuel economy of 11.3 L/100 km in combined driving. The Traverse was noted for its firm yet compliant ride, though it exhibited more road and wind noise on the highway.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was available in six- or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. The third row was suitable for children, while the cargo capacity ranged from 357 litres behind the third row to 1,855 litres with all seats folded. The XC90's interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a standard panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well, even in extreme heat, and the AWD system and heated features made it suitable for winter conditions.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered seven-passenger seating in the RS trim, with captain's chairs in the second row. The Smart Slide function and long rear doors facilitated access to the third row. The Traverse's interior was spacious, with generous legroom and headroom in the second row, though the third row was less comfortable for adults. Cargo space was abundant, with 651 litres behind the third row and up to 2,781 litres with all seats folded. The Traverse featured numerous storage compartments, including a hidden space behind the infotainment screen.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering tablet-like functionality and standard Bluetooth. However, the system was occasionally glitchy and slow, performing better with Apple CarPlay. The XC90 also included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a head-up display, and a Harman-Kardon audio system on higher trims. USB ports were available for both front and rear passengers.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a 7-inch touchscreen on the LS model, while other trims received an 8-inch display. The system supported Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Higher trims offered an 8-inch digital instrument panel and a Bose sound system. The Traverse's infotainment system was praised for its voice recognition capabilities, and the digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera enhanced visibility.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and Volvo's Pilot Assist system. The XC90 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, earning the Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall rating.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured Chevy Safety Assist as standard, with forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims added 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. NHTSA ratings were not available at the time of review.