2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs GMC Acadia

There are several midsize crossovers on today’s market. However, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse and the 2022 GMC Acadia remain two of the most appealing options. While these SUVs are actually built on the same platform, they have some distinctive differences. Not only do these vehicles have their own exclusive styling cues, but they also differ in size.

For the 2022 model year, both the Acadia and the Traverse have been updated with new standard safety features. However, only the Traverse receives an exterior styling refresh. Keep reading to find out which SUV is the better pick.

The Powertrain

Only one powertrain is offered on the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, which pairs a muscular V6 engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Most drivers will be perfectly pleased with the Traverse’s 310-horsepower production. Even when traveling with the entire family onboard, performance is strong. Road tests show the Traverse is capable of accelerating to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds.

In contrast to the Traverse, the 2022 GMC Acadia gives car shoppers two powertrains to pick from. This year, a turbo four-cylinder engine with 228 horsepower comes standard. Although the turbocharged Acadia isn’t quite as quick, drivers will experience a responsive performance. Folks who need more muscle can step up to the V6 engine, which is virtually identical to the one found on the Traverse. Because of the smaller Acadia’s lower curb weight, it accelerates just a bit quicker.

To no surprise, Acadia trims equipped with a turbo four-cylinder engine return the best fuel economy. Drivers can anticipate getting a government-estimated 22 mpg in town and 29 mpg on the freeway. Choosing the Acadia’s stronger V6 engine results in a fuel economy rating of 19 mpg town/27 mpg freeway. Meanwhile, the EPA gives the Traverse a rating of 18 mpg town/27 mpg freeway. Keep in mind that both models experience reduced efficiency when equipped with all-wheel drive.

When outfitted with a trailering package, the turbocharged Acadia can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Selecting the V6 engine increases the SUV’s towing capacity to 4,000 pounds. Rated to handle up to a 5,000-pound load, the Traverse proves to be an even better choice for pulling cargo.

Both of these SUVs come standard with a front-wheel-drive setup. However, all-wheel-drive is available for travelers who must contend with wintry weather. Adventurous families should consider the more rugged Acadia AT4. A special twin-clutch AWD system and hill descent control make it more suitable for tackling off-road trails. Chevy does not offer the Traverse with an off-road trim.

Both of these SUVs will inspire confidence during emergencies. When last tested, the Traverse recorded a good 0-60 mph braking distance of 120 feet. This is right on par with the Acadia’s braking performance.

In regard to long-term dependability, neither vehicle has a clear advantage over the other. Like the Traverse, the Acadia has an average reliability rating. They also have a similar warranty package, which features a 60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.

Drivability

Despite its larger stature, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse is effortless to drive. Its variable-effort steering system helps makes highway driving more enjoyable. Stable handling further enhances the Traverse’s confident feel. Expect the Acadia to be just as pleasing to drive. Because of the Acadia’s shorter wheelbase, it’s a tad less challenging to maneuver in cramped spaces. City dwellers may ultimately find the Acadia to be a better option.

Families will enjoy the Traverse’s calming highway ride. Its standard suspension manages to quash most bumps in the road. Expect the Acadia to also offer good ride comfort. A premium suspension with adaptive shock absorbers comes standard on the Acadia’s range-topping Denali trim. Aside from treating passengers to a more relaxing ride, this upgraded suspension also enables drivers to enjoy more enthusiastic handling.

These SUVs provide quiet accomodations. They do an exceptional job of muting road and wind noise at all speeds. Noise-cancellation technology helps create a more peaceful atmosphere. However, extra insulation makes the upscale Acadia Denali’s interior especially hushed.

Both the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse and 2022 GMC Acadia offer outstanding forward visibility. When behind the wheel, drivers will be able to scan the entire road. Although rear visibility isn’t the best, an available rear camera mirror and blind-spot detection help drivers to remain aware of hidden vehicles.

Tall drivers will find both of these crossovers to be a good choice. They provide an identical 41 inches of legroom in the front. However, an extra inch of headroom does give the Acadia a slight advantage over the Traverse.

Designed to accommodate up to eight passengers, the Traverse is the best choice for drivers who need the most passenger room. Only seven people can fit inside the smaller Acadia. Despite providing a tad more space for folks sitting in its second row, the Acadia comes up short in third-row legroom. When riding in the Traverse’s third row, occupants will have an extra 2.8 inches to stretch out.

Folks who don’t need to house any extra passengers will find the Acadia to be an equally satisfying family hauler. It can provide a similar level of everyday comfort. Many of the same amenities are offered on these SUVs. Tri-zone automatic temperature control is a standard convenience. A few of the other available niceties include heated/ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

The bigger Traverse also has a more sizable cargo area. Flipping down the SUV’s third row expands its storage space to 57.8 cubic feet. When its third-row seat is tucked away, the Acadia provides 41.7 cubic feet of cargo space.

These SUVs have a related infotainment system, which is uncomplicated to operate. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto enable users to pair their smartphones without using a cord. However, the Acadia’s standard 8.0-inch touchscreen is larger than the Traverse’s standard 7.0-inch touchscreen. Keep in mind that only the Acadia offers an optional head-up display. This valuable feature certainly promotes a safer driving experience.

Safety

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse received good overall crash scores from the IIHS. However, it only scored an “Acceptable” rating in the organization’s new side-impact test. Keep in mind that the IIHS has yet to put the Acadia through its new side-impact test. Nonetheless, this SUV did attain an NHTSA five-star overall safety rating.

Both of these crossovers feature a total of seven standard airbags. They also come equipped with a traditional backup camera and a StabiliTrak traction control system. Owners can subscribe to OnStar, which ranks among the top emergency communications systems in the automotive industry. If drivers encounter a problem at any time of the day or night, they can easily summon help.

Like the Traverse, the Acadia provides a nifty Teen Driver system. It’s a great asset for worried parents. Aside from allowing a maximum speed and other restrictions to be set, this system can also evaluate the teen’s driving habits. Parents can even have a driving report card sent directly to their smartphone.

This year, Chevy has updated the newest Traverse with an extra nummber standard safety technologies. Some of these confidence-inspiring driving aids include lane-keep assist, forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian warning, and automatic IntelliBeam headlights. A few more safety technologies come standard on the 2022 GMC Acadia, including blind-spot warning and parking sensors.

Both vehicles give buyers access to a helpful Safety Alert Seat, which vibrates to make the drivers aware of a potential road hazard. A surround-view camera system and adaptive cruise control as available as well.

Which Has the Best Value?

Of these two models, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse has the lowest MSRP. Chevy lists this SUV with a starting price of $33,700. By comparison, prices for the entry-level 2022 GMC Acadia begin at $34,800. To get the Acadia with a V6 engine, buyers must climb the trim ladder. Aside from a smaller infotainment display, folks who choose the entry-level Traverse won’t be making any significant compromises. Similar standard features include a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless smartphone integration, and satellite radio.

Drivers who crave top-notch luxury will be deciding between the Traverse High Country and the Acadia Denali. While the Traverse High Country is listed at $51,200, GMC stamps the Acadia Denali with an MSRP of $46,100. Both of these upscale trims come standard with climate-controlled front seats, heated second-row seats, and a premium Bose sound system. Although the Acadia Denali may demand extra for a sunroof, some people consider it to be a better bang for the buck.

Which is Better?

With these SUVs being built on the same platform, buyers can expect them to offer many of the same great attributes. Drivers who wish to save more money at the pump will favor the 2022 GMC Acadia. Unlike the larger 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, it can be equipped with a turbo four-cylinder engine. Luckily, both SUVs offer a brawny V6 engine. While car shoppers can trust both crossovers to deliver a good ride, the Acadia Denali’s adaptive suspension makes it feel more like a premium luxury vehicle.

Commuters who reside in America’s Snowbelt will find both of these SUVs to be suitable picks. This is especially true when opting for all-wheel drive. On the other hand, families who enjoy traveling off-road will be happier with the Acadia’s more rugged AT4 trim. While its special AWD system helps ensure better traction, hill descent control gives you greater confidence when going down slopes.

When it comes to styling, the Acadia and the Traverse are neck and neck. While some people will like the look of the sporty Traverse RS, outdoor enthusiasts may prefer the ruggedness of the Acadia AT4. However, only the Acadia offers a blacked-out appearance package for the 2022 model year.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse and the 2022 GMC Acadia offers a similar degree of passenger comfort. Many of the same upscale features are offered, such as ventilated front seats and tri-zone automatic temperature control. However, drivers who plan to travel with extra passengers will find the larger Traverse to be a more suitable fit. An adult-friendly third row and a more expansive cargo area give it the edge.

If you live in an urban area, the more compact Acadia may prove to be a better pick. It’s easier to maneuver in congested places. Drivers can also take advantage of the turbo four-cylinder engine’s higher city fuel economy rating.

At the end of the day, both the Acadia and the Traverse are outstanding family vehicles. They're safe, relaxing, and packed with today's most desirable features. Car shoppers must simply decide which qualities they desire the most. While the Traverse is roomier, the Acadia’s rugged AT4 trim and extra number of luxury features may win over some people.