2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was a departure from its predecessors, which often resembled dressed-up Ford Expeditions. While it shared some structural elements with the Expedition, such as side glass and the general shape of the rear seats, the Navigator stood out with its unique design elements. It exuded elegance and understatement, a challenging feat for a three-ton vehicle. The Navigator's styling was defined by simple rectilinear shapes, a few chrome accents, and a monochromatic package that added a touch of class. The interior was equally impressive, with seven colour palettes and a focus on finer details, such as layered wood trim and a minimalist digital instrument panel. The materials were of high quality, and the Perfect Position seats offered 30 different adjustments, making it one of the most comfortable large SUVs available.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was a compact SUV that combined appealing styling with practicality. Its proportions, character lines, and small details were well-executed, and the option for a contrasting roof colour added to its charm. The Trailblazer was available in four trim levels, with AWD standard on most, except for the LT trim. The RS trim, which was tested, featured a sporty design with 18-inch aluminum wheels and a turbocharged engine. While the interior had some hard plastics, it maintained a sense of style and functionality. The Trailblazer's cabin was spacious for its size, with a focus on practicality, including a flat-folding rear seat and a front passenger seat that could accommodate long items.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a formidable twin-turbo V6 engine, borrowed from the Ford Raptor, producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD, provided the Navigator with impressive acceleration and a refined driving experience. Its towing capacity was substantial at 3,765 kilograms, making it a capable choice for those needing to haul heavy loads. However, its fuel efficiency was less than stellar, averaging 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The Navigator's adaptive dampers offered a comfortable ride, though not as refined as some competitors. Despite its size, the Navigator's low-end thrust and quiet cabin made it a pleasure to drive on highways.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. The AWD version came with a nine-speed automatic transmission, enhancing its driving dynamics. The Trailblazer's light curb weight and turbocharged torque made it nimble and fun to drive, especially in urban settings. However, it was not as refined on highways, with noticeable cabin noise. The Trailblazer's fuel efficiency was decent, averaging 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres combined, though slightly below the official rating. Its suspension tuning provided a bouncy ride, but it was expected for a vehicle with a tall centre of gravity and short wheelbase.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered a spacious interior, akin to a small bedroom, with ample room for six adults. It was technically a seven-passenger SUV, but the third row's middle seat was best suited for children. The Navigator's boxy shape contributed to its generous cargo space, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 litres behind the second, and a total of 2,925 litres. The long-wheelbase version provided even more storage capacity. The Navigator's interior featured heated rear seats, a three-zone climate system, and sumptuous front seats with extensive adjustments. However, some features, like electrically reclining second-row seats, were absent.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite its compact size, offered impressive functionality. It could accommodate four passengers comfortably, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat for optimal driving position. The rear seat, while roomy, had flat cushions for a flat load floor when folded. The Trailblazer's cargo space was generous, with 716 litres in the trunk and 1,540 litres with the rear seats folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing for the transport of long items. The Trailblazer's interior was designed for practicality, with a useful tray embedded in the dashboard.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which, while intuitive, felt outdated compared to newer systems. It lacked wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the cameras were low-resolution. However, the software was user-friendly, and voice recognition was fast and accurate. The Navigator offered wireless device charging and a rear entertainment system with Roku media streaming. While not as advanced as some competitors, the Navigator's technology was straightforward and functional.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer came equipped with a comprehensive infotainment system, featuring a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen display. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Chevrolet Connected Services and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Trailblazer's system was user-friendly, with appealing graphics and a smartphone-style interface. Physical controls made it easy to navigate, and the optional Bose audio system provided decent sound quality. The Trailblazer also offered remote engine starting and a keyless entry keypad system for added convenience.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover resistance. It came standard with automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and auto high beams. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and inflatable rear seat belts for the second row, a rare safety feature.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags and a rear-seat reminder system. It came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high-beam headlights. Optional features included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer earned top crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.