2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2021 Audi Q3

The 2021 Audi Q3 showcased a bold design with its massive corporate grille, fitting well with its chunky styling that suggested utility and dynamic handling. Inside, the cabin mirrored this modern aesthetic, with a dash design that highlighted the center touchscreen. Although initially a standout, the Q3's interior began to feel less unique as Volkswagen's designs caught up. Despite this, the Q3 maintained a refined and modern feel.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, while resembling a minivan, offered a stylish SUV alternative with a light restyle that included new headlights, taillights, and grille designs. The RS trim featured blacked-out trim and dark gray 20-inch wheels, adding to its appeal. Inside, the Traverse RS boasted black leather upholstery with contrast stitching, though hard plastic surfaces were prevalent. The interior layout was logical, with user-friendly controls and a focus on practicality.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro AWD. The S-Line trim offered a more powerful 228 hp engine. The Q3's handling was nimble, with a comfortable ride and various drive modes, including Auto, Comfort, Dynamic, and Off-Road.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. It offered a tow rating of 5,000 pounds and various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The Traverse provided a firm yet compliant ride, with good highway performance despite some road noise. Its handling was predictable, though the RS trim's tires lacked excitement.

The 2021 Audi Q3 offered 48 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded and 23.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats. While cargo space was limited, passenger space was generous, with comfortable front seats and ample rear headroom and legroom.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, with its RS trim, seated seven due to captain’s chairs. It featured power-adjustable heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The Smart Slide function and long rear doors facilitated third-row access. Cargo space was abundant, with 23 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.8 cubic feet with seats folded, and a maximum of 98.2 cubic feet.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen running the MMI system, offering Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. An upgraded 10.1-inch touchscreen with navigation was available, along with features like wireless charging and a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The Audi Virtual Cockpit provided a customizable digital display.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim, with Bluetooth connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered an 8-inch digital instrumentation panel and a Bose sound system. The infotainment system was praised for its voice recognition capabilities, and a digital rearview mirror improved visibility.

The 2021 Audi Q3 included Audi Pre Sense and Pre Sense Front, with features like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, offering forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse received top ratings in most collision tests but had not been fully assessed by IIHS or NHTSA.