2021 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to the brand's commitment to high-quality craftsmanship, fitting seamlessly into BMW's lineup of true SUVs. Its design was unmistakably BMW, from the iconic kidney grille to its body shape, ensuring it stood out as a luxury SUV. However, this sameness in design meant it could easily blend in with other BMWs in a crowded parking lot. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice of matte aluminum or high-gloss black finishes, depending on the trim. The M Sport models added a sporty flair with body-colour matched trims and unique styling elements. Inside, the X5's interior was a mix of familiar BMW elements, with an abundance of black plastic and soft-touch materials. The M Sport models offered a more aggressive interior design, with unique styling touches like an M sports steering wheel and exclusive trim strips.

In contrast, the 2021 Chevrolet Blazer was a bold departure from Chevy's typically utilitarian SUV designs. Its exterior styling was striking, with a wedgy profile, slim-cut windows, and an aggressive front end that drew comparisons to the Lamborghini Urus. The Blazer's design was all about making a statement, with features like sawblade 20-inch wheels and a tall, black grille. Chevy offered a range of customization options, including different grille designs and packages like the Redline and Midnight/Sport editions, which added unique styling elements. However, the interior of the Blazer was less impressive, with a low-rent feel and an abundance of dark materials. The seats were unsupportive, and the overall quality did not match the Blazer's price point. Despite this, the Blazer's exterior design left a lasting impression, making it a standout in its segment.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base model, the X5 xDrive40i, featured a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine producing 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The more powerful X5 M50i came with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8, delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. The X5 M took it further with 600 hp, or 617 hp with the Competition Package. The new X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model offered 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, with a 50-kilometre all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering and handling were not as engaging as expected, with dynamics more akin to a Lincoln. The X5's fuel efficiency varied, with the xDrive45e achieving 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres when using both electricity and gas.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer in Canada offered two engine options, both with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The base engine was a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder with 227 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The preferred engine was the 3.6-litre V6, producing 308 hp and 270 lb-ft, standard on the RS and Premier trims. The Blazer's sport-tuned suspension, brakes, and steering provided a surprisingly engaging driving experience, with good grip and responsive handling. However, the transmission's slow responses and lack of paddle shifters detracted from the sporty feel. The Blazer's fuel consumption was average, with the AWD V6 achieving 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The seating was spacious and comfortable for short trips, though the front seats could feel hard on longer journeys. The rear seats were comfortable for two adults, and an optional third row was available. The X5's climate controls were easy to manage, and the split liftgate with power functionality made loading cargo convenient. The X5 offered ample cargo space, though the xDrive45e had slightly less due to its battery.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer, as a two-row SUV, comfortably seated four. The low roof height was offset by seats mounted lower into the floor, making entry and exit easy. However, sightlines were poor due to the design, though large side-view mirrors and optional rear-view camera improved visibility. The Blazer offered 1,818 litres of cargo space with the rear seat folded and 864 litres when raised. It could tow up to 2,041 kilograms with the right configuration. The Blazer's controls were user-friendly, with features like movable rings around air vents for temperature control and a hands-free power tailgate.

The 2021 BMW X5 came with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. However, Apple CarPlay had connectivity issues, often taking over music operations unexpectedly. Standard features included a digital gauge cluster, 10-speaker sound system, navigation, and more. Optional upgrades included a head-up display, premium audio systems, and a dual-panel panoramic roof. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Chevrolet Infotainment 3, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The RS trim added wireless phone charging, LED headlights, and adaptive cruise control. The infotainment system was quick and easy to use, with features like navigation, onboard apps, and the ability to pair two phones. GM's unique features included cloud account settings transfer and individual privacy settings for apps.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control, particularly in bright sunlight or rain. The X5 received nearly all Good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer came with standard safety features like forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Blind spot monitoring was available on higher trims. The Blazer received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and Good ratings from the IIHS, though its headlights were rated Marginal and Poor. The Blazer lacked semi-automated driving functions and rear emergency braking.