2022 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Lexus GX retained its rugged and aggressive exterior styling, a testament to its long-standing presence in the market. Despite its decade-old body shell, the GX's spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights gave it a distinctive look that appealed to SUV enthusiasts. However, the interior did not match the modern luxury standards, with wood trim resembling plastic and an abundance of actual plastic materials. The semi-aniline leather was a redeeming feature, but overall, the interior felt dated.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Blazer boasted a Camaro-inspired design that was both sporty and appealing. The RS trim, in particular, featured black leather upholstery with red perforations, adding a touch of sophistication. The Blazer's interior was practical, with a power-adjustable steering wheel and seats, dual-zone climate control, and ample storage space. The exterior design was marred slightly by the black trim on the rear bumper, but overall, the Blazer presented a modern and stylish appearance.

The 2021 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. While the V8 provided ample power for initial acceleration, the GX's hefty weight of 2,349 kilograms made high-speed maneuvers and stopping a challenge. The body-on-frame construction resulted in a less refined ride, but the GX excelled in off-road capabilities with its Torsen centre differential and 4WD system, offering a maximum towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer offered two engine options: a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 228 horsepower and a 3.6-litre V6 producing 308 horsepower. The V6, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, provided satisfying acceleration and a towing capacity of 2,040 kilograms. The Blazer RS felt sporty in urban settings, but its suspension and steering were less impressive on winding roads. Fuel efficiency was reasonable, with an average of 11.5 L/100 km during testing.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior was cramped, with limited legroom and an awkward steering wheel position. The dashboard design offered excellent visibility, but storage space was minimal, and the third-row seats were difficult to access. With all seats folded, the GX provided 1,833 litres of cargo space, but the third row severely limited storage when in use.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer offered a more comfortable and spacious interior, with power-adjustable front seats and a sliding rear seat for added flexibility. Storage solutions were plentiful, and the cargo area measured 864 litres, expanding to 1,818 litres with the rear seats folded. The Blazer's power liftgate, though occasionally finicky, added convenience.

The 2021 Lexus GX was lacking in modern tech features, with no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility. The infotainment system was outdated, but analog controls provided a straightforward interface. The Mark Levinson audio system was a highlight, offering quality sound.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer featured a more advanced infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, physical controls, and innovative climate control vents. The Blazer's tech offerings were more comprehensive, with USB ports, a household-style power outlet, and a range of driver assistance features.

The 2021 Lexus GX came with the Lexus Safety System+ suite, including pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, it lacked some advanced features found in other Lexus models.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer was equipped with the Chevy Safety Assist suite, offering a comprehensive range of driver aids. The Blazer's safety features, including the Safety Alert Seat and adaptive cruise control, worked effectively, providing a reassuring driving experience.