2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Lexus GX retained its decade-old body shell, with minor updates over the years, including the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights. Despite its age, the GX's styling was coherent and distinctive, appealing to SUV enthusiasts with its tough, aggressive look. However, the interior did not meet modern luxury standards, with wood trim resembling plastic and an abundance of actual plastic. The semi-aniline leather was a redeeming feature, but overall, the interior felt outdated.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer boasted appealing styling with well-executed proportions and character lines. The option for a contrasting roof colour added to its charm. Available in four trims, the Trailblazer offered a range of features, with AWD standard on most trims. The RS trim, though pricey, provided a sporty appearance with 18-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior was marred by hard plastics, though it maintained a sense of style. The Trailblazer's cabin was functional, but the price seemed steep for the materials used.

The 2021 Lexus GX featured a 4.6-litre V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While the V8 provided ample power for initial acceleration, the GX's hefty weight of 2,349 kilograms affected its performance at higher speeds, requiring careful planning for overtaking. The braking and handling were reminiscent of older SUVs, with noticeable body roll and low grip. However, the GX excelled in off-road capabilities, equipped with a Torsen centre differential, 4WD system with low range, and features like Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select. It offered a towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms, making it a robust choice for off-road enthusiasts.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, powered by a 1.3-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, delivered 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. The AWD version featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, enhancing ride and handling. The Trailblazer's light weight and turbocharged torque made it nimble and fun to drive, especially in urban settings. However, it was noisy on highways, and the suspension struggled with speed bumps. Off-road capabilities were limited, even with the Activ trim's enhancements. The Trailblazer averaged 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly above the official rating, but still reasonable for its class.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior design reflected its age, with limited legroom due to the high centre console and awkward steering wheel position. Visibility was generally good, except for the tall hood obstructing forward view. Storage options were limited, with small bins and cupholders. The GX offered three rows of seating, but the third row was cramped and difficult to access. Cargo space was limited, with only 1,833 litres available with seats folded, making it more suitable as a two-row SUV.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite its compact size, offered impressive functionality. It accommodated four passengers comfortably, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat for optimal positioning. The rear seat, though flat, provided ample legroom. Cargo space was generous, with 716 litres in the trunk and 1,540 litres with seats folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing for long items to be transported easily. The Trailblazer's interior was practical, though rear passenger comfort was compromised for cargo versatility.

The 2021 Lexus GX was sparse on tech features, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It included a basic infotainment system with outdated graphics and limited functionality. However, analog controls were a welcome feature for those preferring tactile interfaces. The 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system was a highlight, but overall, the tech offerings were minimal for a luxury SUV.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured a comprehensive infotainment system with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, offering Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with appealing graphics and intuitive controls. The Trailblazer also offered a Bose premium audio system and wireless smartphone charging. Additional features included Teen Driver technology and a keyless entry keypad system, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2021 Lexus GX came with the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, including a pre-collision system, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, it lacked some advanced features found in other Lexus models, such as traffic-sign recognition. The GX did not have crash-test ratings from NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags and a rear-seat reminder system. Chevy Safety Assist provided a suite of driver assistance features, including forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assistance. Optional features included blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer received top crash-test ratings from both NHTSA and IIHS, ensuring peace of mind for drivers.