2021 Chevrolet Trax vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax, a continuation of the model introduced in 2015, maintained its 2017 design updates into 2021. It offered two trims, LS and LT, after dropping the Premier trim. The LS trim featured 16-inch aluminum wheels, remote keyless entry, and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The LT trim added enhancements like heated mirrors, roof rails, and upgraded seating. Various styling packages and driver assistance features were available for the LT trim, providing customization options for buyers.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, a long-standing model since 2000, continued its second generation from 2008. Its exterior design remained classic, with a modest grille and elegant lines. The Sequoia's dimensions were substantial, offering a commanding presence. Inside, the design felt dated compared to modern SUVs, with a smaller 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch driver information screen. However, the interior was well-built, with high-quality materials and a focus on durability. The Nightshade Special Edition added contemporary touches with darkened trim and 20-inch alloy wheels.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax was powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 138 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive. While adequate for city driving, the engine struggled at highway speeds and was noisy. The Trax had a firm ride, which could be harsh over rough roads, but its tight turning radius made it maneuverable in urban settings. Competitors like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30 offered more comfortable and engaging rides.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia featured a robust 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. It was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, with a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential and a two-speed transfer case in 4WD models. The Sequoia had a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds and could tow up to 7,400 pounds. Despite its weight, the Sequoia provided a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities. Its fuel economy was less impressive, with ratings of 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway for both RWD and 4WD models.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax offered decent headroom and legroom in both rows, though rear seats lacked support for long journeys. The front featured multiple storage trays and low cupholder placement for convenience. Cargo space was 18.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with seats folded. The front passenger seat could fold flat for larger items, but there was no power liftgate option.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort with spacious seating across three rows and three-zone climate control. A power moonroof and available heated and ventilated front seats added to the comfort. The center console and door pockets provided ample storage, while the cargo area offered 18.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 120.1 cubic feet with seats folded. A 12-volt outlet in the cargo area was ideal for outdoor activities.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax came with a 7-inch touchscreen running the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. It included two USB ports and an available WiFi hotspot, offering a user-friendly experience with vivid graphics and intuitive menus.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch driver information screen. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the system lacked the modern feel of competitors. The Sequoia Limited added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, with an optional premium audio package. Despite its dated infotainment, the Sequoia featured LED lighting and a rear backup camera.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax received a five-star crash test rating from the NHTSA but lacked advanced safety features. Standard equipment included airbags and a backup camera, with optional blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection in the LT Convenience Package. Rivals offered more comprehensive safety features as standard.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS but came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, including pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. The STAR safety system added stability control, traction control, and more. A full complement of airbags and safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard.