2022 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis's first SUV, presented a fresh design opportunity, unburdened by a long legacy of design language. It successfully integrated the brand's signature styling cues, such as the massive trapezoidal grille and "Quad Lamp" LED headlight array, into its elegant two-box design. The GV80's exterior was marked by its long hood, short front overhang, and distinctive wheel arches, which housed aluminum-alloy wheels ranging from 19 to 22 inches. The rear design echoed the front with Quad Lamp taillights and twin trapezoidal tailpipes. Inside, the GV80 offered a luxurious experience with a sleek, uncluttered dashboard, real wood, metal, and leather materials, and a 14.5-inch high-definition display, creating a truly special luxury SUV interior.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Blazer, available in LT, True North, Premier, and RS trims, offered a sporty appearance inspired by the Camaro. The Blazer's exterior featured two-tone paint options and revised bumper and bodyside trim for the Premier version. The RS trim stood out with its sophisticated twin-clutch AWD system and 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Blazer's cabin was marked by Camaro-inspired design elements, such as the 8-inch touchscreen display and large round air vents with temperature adjustment rings. While the interior featured hard plastics, the RS trim's red interior accents added a layer of sophistication. The Blazer's design was appealing, though some elements, like the black trim on the rear bumper, gave it an unfinished appearance.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The GV80's 3.5T models featured electronically controlled suspension with road preview and an electronic limited-slip differential for enhanced performance. The 2.5T engine provided sufficient power for most driving situations, while the 3.5T offered a smoother and stronger experience, aided by active noise cancellation. Fuel consumption for the 2.5T was rated at 11.3 L/100 km city and 9.5 highway, while the 3.5T was rated at 12.9 L/100 km city and 10.4 highway.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer LT came with a standard 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Higher trims, including the RS, featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 308 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque, with a more sophisticated dual-clutch AWD system exclusive to the RS. The V6 engine offered satisfying acceleration, though it was often loud and unrefined. The Blazer's driving modes included Tour, Sport, Slippery, and Tow/Haul, with a towing capacity of up to 2,040 kilograms. Fuel consumption for the Blazer RS AWD was rated at 11.0 L/100 km combined, though real-world testing showed an average of 11.5 L/100 km.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sophisticated interior with a focus on technology, design, and ergonomics. The centre console and stack housed a rotary gear selector, a circular multimedia controller, and capacitive touch buttons for the HVAC system. The second row offered comfort and roominess for two adults, with power-adjustable seats and window shades available. The 3.5T models included a third row, increasing passenger capacity to seven, with power-folding seats for added convenience.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer provided a comfortable and practical interior, with black leather upholstery and red perforations in the RS trim. The front seats offered power adjustment, heating, and optional ventilation, though they lacked side bolsters and thigh support. The Blazer's back seat was wide and flat, with ample legroom and the ability to slide for added cargo or passenger space. Storage options included a large glove compartment, centre armrest bin, and door panel shelves. The power rear liftgate revealed a 864-litre cargo area, expandable to 1,818 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 boasted a sixth-generation Genesis UX infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and user-configurable split-screen displays. Android users could utilize a digital key function, while the GV80 also provided five years of complimentary Genesis Connected Services. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were standard on higher trims, and the Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround audio system with 21 speakers was a highlight.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with simple physical controls and innovative air vent temperature adjustment rings. The RS trim's interior included red accents matching the exterior paint, adding sophistication. The Blazer's technology package included dual-zone automatic climate control, USB ports, and a household-style power outlet. The power rear liftgate offered hands-free operation, though its success rate was inconsistent.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 received top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came equipped with 10 airbags, a vehicle stability management system, and a suite of driver assistance features, such as blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and forward collision-avoidance assist. The GV80 also offered adaptive cruise control with machine learning and highway-driving assist, along with Remote Smart Parking Assist for automated parking.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer included the Chevy Safety Assist suite as standard, featuring forward-collision alert, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. Additional safety features included a rear-seat reminder system, Teen Driver technology, and an available Safety Alert Seat. The Blazer's adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance worked effectively, though its LED headlights did not earn high ratings from the IIHS.