2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Honda Odyssey presented a familiar yet refreshed appearance, with subtle updates to its decade-old styling theme. The new model year introduced a redesigned grille and front bumper, standard LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation across all trims, and a gloss black spear with a chrome insert stretching across the taillights. The Touring trim debuted a new 19-inch wheel design, enhancing the minivan's modern appeal by reducing brightwork. The interior received upgrades, including perforated leather upholstery with contrast stitching and piping, new dashboard ambient lighting, and tri-colour floor mats, contributing to a more upscale look and feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer boasted an appealing design with well-executed proportions, character lines, and small details. The option of a black-, white-, or red-painted roof added to its visual allure. Available in LS, LT, Activ, and RS trims, the Trailblazer's pricing ranged from $25,998 to $30,298, with a $1,900 destination charge. The RS trim, tested at $37,653, featured 18-inch aluminum wheels and a sporty appearance. However, the interior was marred by hard plastics, detracting from its overall appeal despite its stylish design.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering 280 horsepower to the front wheels. This combination provided smooth and effortless power, aided by variable cylinder management for improved fuel efficiency. The Odyssey averaged 10.8 L/100 km in testing, slightly above the official 10.6 L/100 km rating. Despite lacking all-wheel drive, the Odyssey offered a pleasurable driving experience with well-weighted steering, firm yet comfortable ride quality, and improved brake pedal feel. However, the brakes showed signs of fade under heavy use, indicating a need for an upgrade.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured a turbocharged 1.3-litre three-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. The AWD variant came with a nine-speed automatic transmission and a more sophisticated rear suspension, enhancing ride and handling. The Trailblazer's light curb weight and turbocharged torque made it nimble and fun to drive, especially in Sport mode. However, it was noisy on highways, and the suspension struggled with speed bumps. The Trailblazer averaged 9.0 L/100 km, falling short of its 8.4 L/100 km rating with AWD.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey offered a spacious and functional interior with logical controls and ample storage. The 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat provided comfort, while heated front seats and mirrors were standard. The Magic Slide second-row seat layout allowed for versatile seating configurations, and the third-row seats accommodated both children and adults comfortably. Cargo space was generous, with 929 litres behind the third row, expanding to 3,984 litres with seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was cumbersome.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite its compact size, offered impressive functionality. The RS trim featured a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and the rear seat provided ample legroom, though it was less comfortable due to flat cushions. The Trailblazer's cargo area held 716 litres, expanding to 1,540 litres with the rear seats folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, accommodating long items like surfboards.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and more. Higher trims added navigation, a CabinWatch interior camera, and a CabinTalk PA system. The Touring trim featured an 11-speaker premium audio system and a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice recognition were drawbacks. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 10.2-inch screen and streaming apps, though it lacked a touchscreen interface.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer's infotainment system featured a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The RS trim included a 7-speaker Bose audio system and wireless smartphone charging. The system was user-friendly, with physical controls and intuitive operation. Additional features included remote engine starting and a keyless entry keypad system.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety features with standard Honda Sensing, including adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though the adaptive cruise control could be smoother.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with 10 airbags and a rear-seat reminder system. Chevy Safety Assist included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Optional features included blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.