2021 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer was a striking vehicle that often drew comparisons to high-end models like the Lamborghini Urus, thanks to its aggressive styling. Its exterior design featured a wedgy profile, slim-cut windows, and sawblade 20-inch wheels, all contributing to a bold and memorable appearance. The Blazer's design was a departure from Chevy's typically utilitarian SUVs, borrowing elements from the Camaro to create a more exciting and upscale look. However, the interior did not match the exterior's promise, with a low-rent feel and materials that seemed below par for its price range. The cabin was predominantly dark, with unsupportive seats and an undersized central screen, making it less appealing compared to competitors offering better quality and design at similar price points.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Rogue presented a more mature and refined exterior, continuing the redesign from the previous year. It shared design elements with other Nissan models, such as the V-motion grille and multi-level LED headlights, contributing to a sleek and modern look. The Rogue's interior was sophisticated, featuring a layered dash with contrasting colours and surfaces, providing a detailed and tasteful appearance. The centre console was a highlight, with an electronic gear selector lever that saved space, and a 9-inch infotainment display positioned for optimal driver visibility. The Rogue's interior was spacious and comfortable, with Nissan's Zero Gravity seats and ample legroom in the second row, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer offered two engine options in Canada, with the base being a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine producing 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The preferred engine was the 3.6-litre V6, delivering 308 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, providing a strong and agile performance. The Blazer's sport-tuned suspension, brakes, and steering worked harmoniously, offering a driving experience reminiscent of a BMW. However, the transmission calibration had issues, with slow responses and a convoluted manual mode that detracted from the sporty promise. Fuel consumption ratings were average, with the AWD V6 drivetrain achieving 12.0 L/100 km city, 8.7 highway, and 10.5 combined.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, benefited from a new 1.5-litre VC-Turbo engine, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, a significant improvement over the previous model. The engine's variable compression technology allowed for efficient power delivery, enhancing the Rogue's performance. The new CVT transmission offered a wider range of gear ratios, improving acceleration and responsiveness. The Rogue's chassis and suspension provided a smooth and controlled ride, with minimal body roll and good steering feel. Fuel efficiency was impressive, with the AWD drivetrain achieving 8.4 L/100 km city, 6.7 highway, and 7.6 combined.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer, as a two-row SUV, comfortably seated four passengers, with seats mounted lower into the floor for easy entry and exit. However, sightlines were poor due to the low roof height, though large side-view mirrors and a rear-view mirror camera helped improve visibility. Cargo space was decent, with 1,818 litres available with the rear seat folded and 864 litres when raised. The Blazer's towing capacity was notable, reaching up to 2,041 kg with the right configuration. Interior controls were user-friendly, with features like movable rings around air vents serving as temperature dials.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in interior space and storage options, with numerous compartments for stashing items throughout the cabin. The second-row seat was a 60/40 split reclining bench, providing flexibility for passengers and cargo. The Rogue offered up to 1,033 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up, expanding to 2,098 litres when folded flat. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring USB-A, USB-C, and 12-volt outlets, along with a wireless charging pad for convenience.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen running Chevrolet Infotainment 3, known for its simplicity and speed. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G WiFi hotspot. The RS trim added wireless phone charging, LED headlights, and a Safety Alert Seat. The infotainment system offered unique features like cloud account settings transfer and an app store with privacy settings.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue's technology suite was enhanced with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display on upper trims. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with wireless Apple CarPlay available on higher trims. ProPilot Assist, a hands-on driver-assist technology, was available, integrating with the navigation system for proactive speed adjustments. Nissan's Intelligent Key allowed for convenient keyless entry on all doors.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer offered a range of standard safety features, including forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams. It received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and top "Good" ratings from the IIHS, though its headlights were rated "Marginal" and "Poor." The Blazer lacked semi-automated functions and rear emergency braking.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, with standard features like automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. It received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. ProPilot Assist offered advanced driver-assist capabilities, enhancing safety and convenience.