2022 Toyota Highlander vs 2021 Chevrolet Blazer

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 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 dynamic and sporty look. 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 Toyota Highlander offered a modern and somewhat aggressive front-end design, with flared fender arches and a spacious interior that belied its exterior appearance. The Highlander XSE trim, in particular, stood out with its bold red leather interior and unique exterior styling. The cabin was well-equipped with clever storage solutions and ample space, making it a practical choice for families. The Highlander's interior was more refined, with higher-quality materials and a thoughtful layout that enhanced the overall driving experience.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer offered two engine options in Canada, with the base engine being a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder producing 227 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The preferred engine was the 3.6-litre V6, delivering 308 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, providing a strong and agile performance. The Blazer's sport-tuned suspension and mechanical torque-vectoring rear axle on the RS trim contributed to its impressive handling, reminiscent of a BMW. However, the transmission calibration had issues, with slow responses and a convoluted manual mode that detracted from the sporty experience. Fuel consumption ratings for the AWD V6 were average, at 12.0 litres per 100 kilometres city, 8.7 highway, and 10.5 combined.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander came equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Highlander's performance was solid, with good pickup and a throaty exhaust note, particularly when cruising or overtaking. The XSE trim featured a sport-tuned suspension that reduced body roll while maintaining a comfortable ride. The Highlander could tow up to 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds), which was average for its class.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer, as a two-row SUV, comfortably seated four passengers. Its 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 mirror cameras helped improve visibility. The Blazer offered 1,818 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 864 litres with them raised. It had a maximum towing capacity of 2,041 kilograms (4,500 pounds) with the right configuration.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander provided up to 2,387 litres of cargo space with the second- and third-row seats folded. With the second-row seats in use, there was 1,370 litres of cargo space, and 453 litres with all seats deployed. The Highlander featured quick-release latches for easy seat adjustments and a power liftgate on higher trims. The cabin was designed with practicality in mind, offering ample storage solutions and comfortable seating, though the third row was best suited for short trips.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer came with an 8-inch touchscreen running Chevrolet Infotainment 3, known for its simplicity and speed. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G WiFi hotspot. The RS trim added features like wireless phone charging, LED headlights, and adaptive cruise control. The infotainment system offered unique GM features, such as cloud-based settings transfer and an app store with privacy settings.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. While it lacked wireless connectivity, the system was straightforward and complemented by hard buttons. The XSE trim included a wireless charging pad and multiple USB ports. A larger 12.3-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL stereo system were available on higher trims.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer included standard driver-assist features like forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. It received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS, though its headlights were rated "Marginal" and "Poor." The Blazer lacked semi-automated functions and some advanced safety features.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander came standard with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, offering features like forward collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and dynamic radar cruise control. It also included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Highlander was rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, though its lane-keeping systems were noted to be overly active at times.