2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2021 Honda Pilot

The 2021 Honda Pilot aimed to balance styling with reliability, safety, comfort, and performance. Despite efforts to enhance its rugged appearance with a 2019 refresh and a 2020 Black Edition, the exterior design remained polarizing. Available in five trims in Canada, the Pilot offered standard all-wheel drive and a price range from $42,905 to $56,805. The Black Edition, fully loaded with exclusive black leather upholstery and red accents, was priced at $58,806 with a destination charge. While the interior boasted quality materials, the design felt reminiscent of a minivan, which, along with its exterior, did not appeal to everyone.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was praised for its appealing styling, with well-proportioned character lines and optional roof colours. Available in four 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, was considered overpriced given the hard plastic interior. However, the Trailblazer's cabin had a sense of style, and its compact size made it nimble and easy to park. Despite some interior noise and a bouncy ride, the Trailblazer's design and functionality were well-received.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured a robust 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, providing a smooth and refined driving experience. Its nine-speed automatic transmission and torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system enhanced traction and handling, with up to 70% of engine output directed to a single rear wheel. The Pilot offered various driving modes and fuel-saving technologies, achieving an average of 10.9 L/100 km in testing. Its suspension provided a comfortable ride and athletic handling, though off-road capability was limited by its ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, equipped with a 1.3-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, delivered 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, making it feel lively. The AWD version featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and improved suspension, enhancing ride and handling. The RS trim's 18-inch wheels and light curb weight contributed to its nimble performance. However, the Trailblazer was noisy on highways, and its suspension struggled with speed bumps. It averaged 9.0 L/100 km in testing, slightly above the official rating. Off-road capability was limited, even in the Activ trim with off-road enhancements.

The 2021 Honda Pilot offered ample space for families, seating up to eight with a bench second-row seat. The Black Edition featured comfortable leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats, with 10-way power adjustment for the driver. Second-row captain’s chairs were standard, providing comfort and sliding for third-row access. The Pilot boasted numerous storage solutions and a power tailgate, with cargo space ranging from 524 litres behind the third row to a maximum of 3,092 litres.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, though compact, was highly functional. It comfortably seated four, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat and a roomy rear seat. The rear seat's flat design facilitated a flat load floor when folded, offering 1,540 litres of cargo space. The Trailblazer's trunk held 716 litres, with a versatile load floor and fold-flat front passenger seat for long items.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered navigation, wireless charging, and a premium audio system. The Touring trim added a rear-seat entertainment system and Cabin Talk feature. While adequate, the system's small screen and limited HondaLink services were drawbacks.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer's infotainment system included a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The RS trim featured a larger screen, Spotify, SiriusXM, and an optional Bose audio system. The system's user-friendly interface and physical controls were highlights. Additional features included remote engine start and a keyless entry keypad.

The 2021 Honda Pilot came standard with Honda Sensing, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring. While effective, the system lacked refinement. The Pilot received favourable crash-test ratings, with some areas for improvement.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer included 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder, and Teen Driver technology. Chevy Safety Assist provided forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional features included blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer's ADAS performed well, and it earned top crash-test ratings.