2021 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2022 Genesis GV70

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer was a striking vehicle that often drew comparisons to high-end models like the Lamborghini Urus. Its aggressive styling, characterized by a wedgy profile, slim-cut windows, and a bold front end with thin lights and a tall, black grille, made it stand out. The Blazer's design was a departure from Chevy's typically utilitarian SUVs, borrowing elements from the Camaro to create a more dynamic and memorable appearance. However, the interior did not match the exterior's flair, with a low-rent feel and materials that seemed below par for its price range. The cabin was predominantly dark, with unsupportive seats and downmarket plastics, which detracted from the overall experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Genesis GV70 was a testament to Korean automotive design, offering a unique and eye-catching exterior. The GV70 featured Genesis's signature two-line lighting, creating a cohesive look from front to back. Its styling diverged from the brand's other models, with distinct shoulder lines and accent paths around the windows. The GV70's interior was equally impressive, with a focus on driver-centric design and high-quality materials. The cabin offered a range of colour combinations and premium features, such as quilted leather seats and carbon fibre inserts, providing a luxurious and personalized experience.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer offered two engine options in Canada, both paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The base engine was a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder, producing 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the preferred choice was the 3.6-litre V6, delivering 308 hp and 270 lb-ft. The V6 provided a strong performance, especially with the sport-tuned suspension and torque-vectoring rear axle on the RS trim. However, the transmission calibration had issues, with slow responses and a convoluted manual mode that detracted from the driving experience. Fuel consumption ratings for the AWD V6 were average, at 12.0 L/100 km city, 8.7 highway, and 10.5 combined.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 came with two engine options, though the 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder was not yet available in Canada. The 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6, producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque, was the highlight, offering impressive power figures that rivalled German competitors. The GV70 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, with a rear-biased system that could transfer up to 50% of torque to the front wheels. The Sport Plus grade included an electronic limited-slip differential, enhancing performance. The GV70's suspension system used a forward camera to adapt to road conditions, providing a balance between comfort and feedback. Fuel consumption for the V6 was estimated at 11.6 L/100 km combined.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer was a two-row SUV that comfortably seated four passengers. Its low roof height did not compromise interior space, thanks to seats mounted lower into the floor. However, sightlines were poor, a trade-off for its sporty design. The Blazer offered 1,818 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 864 litres when raised. It had a towing capacity of 2,041 kg with the V6 engine and trailering package. The Blazer featured simple controls, such as temperature dials integrated into the air vents, and convenient options like a hands-free power tailgate.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 prioritized driver-focused design, with a tall centre console and intuitive controls within easy reach. The infotainment system was controlled by a raised dial, and climate controls were configured under a single pane with haptic feedback. The GV70 offered standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with ventilated front and rear seats available on higher trims. Rear passengers benefited from a panoramic sunroof and manual sunshades, though storage was limited. Cargo volume was 819 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,610 litres with the seats folded. The GV70's ergonomics and functionality were above average, despite some minor issues with steering wheel controls.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Chevrolet Infotainment 3, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. The system was quick and easy to use, with a subscription-based 4G WiFi hotspot. The RS trim added wireless phone charging, adaptive cruise control, and a Safety Alert Seat. A "Plus" version of the infotainment system included navigation, better voice recognition, and the ability to pair two phones. GM's cloud account feature allowed drivers to transfer settings between vehicles, and the app store offered easy downloads and updates.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 boasted a 14.5-inch high-definition LCD infotainment screen, with high-resolution graphics and a split-screen layout. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though not in wireless form. The premium Sport Plus grade featured a 3D digital instrument cluster, enhancing the driving experience with layered graphics and Blind View Monitor. The GV70 introduced a fingerprint recognition system for keyless start and offered a premium 18-speaker Lexicon surround sound system on top grades. Standard equipment included a nine-speaker audio system and USB ports for both front and rear passengers.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer came with standard driver assist and safety features, such as forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. The Blazer received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with top "Good" ratings from the IIHS in crash tests, though its headlights received lower ratings. A driver's knee airbag was standard, but rear emergency braking and GM's inboard side airbag were not offered.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 included ten standard safety features, such as blind spot collision avoidance, lane departure warning, and forward collision avoidance. A new rear occupant alert system used radar to detect movement in the second row. The Genesis Highway Driving Assist system offered lane centring and automatic lane changing, though it required the driver's hands on the wheel. Safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not yet available, but the GV70's onboard systems were of high quality.