2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer was a subcompact SUV that drew inspiration from its larger sibling, the Blazer. Its design was appealing, featuring dark gray plastic trim around the lower perimeter and borrowing styling cues from the Hyundai Kona and Kia Soul, such as stacked triple front lights and two-tone paint schemes. The Activ trim added a rugged touch with skid plate trim, unique 17-inch aluminum wheels, and sport terrain tires. The interior boasted a well-thought-out design with excellent control layout and storage options, though it was marred by the presence of hard shiny plastic, which felt out of place at higher price points.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX maintained a classic look reminiscent of its first-generation model, with the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights. Inside, the cabin exuded quality, with smooth and refined materials typical of Lexus. The GX offered a quiet ride, with the V8 engine's roar barely audible. Despite its dated design, the interior was comfortable, with physical controls and a mix of old-school and modern features. However, the narrow back door openings and limited third-row space were drawbacks, along with the cumbersome side-swinging tailgate.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered two engine options. The base model featured a 1.2-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT. Other versions, including the Activ AWD, came with a more powerful 1.3-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder engine delivering 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Trailblazer's performance was adequate for most driving conditions, though it struggled on steep inclines. It averaged 8.8 litres per 100 kilometres in fuel economy, slightly below the official rating. The ride was firm, with suspension impact harshness over bumps, and the steering felt disconnected at times.

The 2022 Lexus GX, with its 4.6-litre V8 engine, produced 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. Despite its hefty curb weight of 2,325 kilograms, the GX managed a 7.8-second sprint to 60 mph. The six-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD system provided stability, though the GX's high drag coefficient and weight resulted in a fuel consumption estimate of 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System improved ride quality, making the GX more stable and secure. However, the slow, heavy steering and touchy brake pedal detracted from the driving experience.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered a mix of cloth and leatherette seating options, with the latter trapping sweat and the climate control system struggling to maintain comfort. The front seats were adjustable and supportive, but the rear seats were flat and uncomfortable, lacking air conditioning vents. Cargo space was generous, with 716 litres expanding to 1,540 litres with the rear seats folded, and a hands-free liftgate was available as an option.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided a commanding driving position with comfortable seats and ample padding. The interior featured physical controls, though some were awkwardly placed. The Black Line Special Edition added NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim. The rear seats offered good legroom, but the third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access. Cargo space was limited with the third row in use, and the side-swinging tailgate made loading cumbersome. With the third row stowed, the GX offered 1,322 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,833 litres with the second row folded.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with two infotainment options. The base system featured a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. The upgraded system offered an 8-inch display, wireless connectivity, and a Bose premium audio system. The interface was user-friendly, with physical controls for easy operation.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation, along with a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. The stereo controls were awkwardly placed, but the dual-screen view and voice recognition technology were highlights. Intuitive Parking Assist became standard, with optional surround-view and terrain-view cameras.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer was equipped with Chevy Safety Assist, featuring forward-collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and more. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, though some systems were inconsistent in performance.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings but included Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and more. It also offered blind-spot monitoring and Safety Connect services. However, it missed some advanced safety technologies found in competitors, which could be a drawback for some buyers.