2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer, inspired by the larger Blazer midsize crossover SUV, was a visually appealing subcompact vehicle. It featured traditional design elements such as dark gray plastic trim around its lower perimeter and borrowed styling cues from the Hyundai Kona and Kia Soul, including stacked triple front lights and optional two-tone paint schemes. Our test model, the Activ trim, boasted a rugged appearance with front and rear skid plate trim, unique 17-inch aluminum wheels, and sport terrain tires. The interior design was commendable, with a well-organized control layout, useful storage, and stylish detailing, although the presence of hard shiny plastic was a downside at higher price points.

In contrast, the 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis's first SUV, was a fresh design that balanced innovation with the brand's signature styling cues. It featured an elegant two-box design with a long hood, short front overhang, and a massive trapezoidal grille with a diamond mesh. The SUV's exterior was accentuated by Quad Lamp LED headlights and taillights, and the paint and trim quality were excellent. Inside, the GV80 offered a sleek and uncluttered dashboard, with a focus on horizontal design elements and authentic materials like real wood, metal, and leather. The centre console was integrated into a bridge-like structure, providing ample storage and minimal controls, while the 14.5-inch high-definition display added a touch of luxury.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered two engine options. The base model featured a turbocharged 1.2-litre 3-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Other versions, including the Activ AWD, came with a more powerful 1.3-litre 3-cylinder engine delivering 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Trailblazer's powertrain was agreeable, with torque available from 1,600 to 4,000 rpm, although it struggled on steep inclines. The SUV averaged a fuel economy of 8.8 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly below the official rating. While the Trailblazer exhibited good roll control and steering, its suspension impact harshness and interior noise were notable drawbacks.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine choices: a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV80's 3.5T models featured electronically controlled suspension with road preview, enhancing ride comfort. The 2.5T engine provided sufficient power for most driving situations, while the 3.5T was smoother and quieter, thanks to active noise cancellation. Fuel consumption estimates for the GV80 were 11.3 L/100 km city/9.5 highway/10.5 combined for the 2.5T and 12.9 L/100 km city/10.4 highway/11.8 combined for the 3.5T.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered cloth seats in LS and LT trims, while higher trims featured leatherette, which tended to trap sweat. The automatic climate control system struggled to maintain a comfortable cabin temperature. The front seats provided good support, but the rear seats were less comfortable, with a flat cushion and reclined backrest. The Trailblazer's cargo space expanded from 716 litres to 1,540 litres with the rear seats folded, and the front passenger seat could also fold down for additional cargo length. A hands-free liftgate was available as an option.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 boasted a sophisticated interior with a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller. The HVAC control panel featured capacitive touch buttons with intelligent masking to prevent accidental misuse. The second row was spacious and comfortable, with available power seats and window shades. A third row was standard on 3.5T models, increasing passenger capacity to seven. The third-row seats had a power-fold function and were split 50/50.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered two infotainment systems. The base system included a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth pairing for two smartphones, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. The upgraded system for Activ and RS trims featured an 8-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and cloud-connected vehicle personalization. The Trailblazer also offered USB-A and USB-C ports, wireless charging, and a 7-speaker Bose audio system. The interface was intuitive, with physical controls for easy operation.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured the sixth-generation Genesis UX on a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen with split-screen displays. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with cloud profiles for personalized settings. Android users could use a digital key function, while Genesis Connected Services provided various remote and safety features. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims. The standard audio system had nine speakers, with an optional 21-speaker Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround system.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with standard Chevy Safety Assist, including forward-collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and more. Optional features included blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured 10 airbags, vehicle stability management, and a suite of driver assistance features, including blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control with machine learning. The GV80 also offered Remote Smart Parking Assist for automated parking.