2022 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer, available in Canada in LT, True North, Premier, and RS trims, was known for its sporty, Camaro-inspired design. The LT trim featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive, while higher trims came with a V6 engine and all-wheel drive. The RS trim boasted a sophisticated twin-clutch AWD system for better traction. The Blazer's exterior saw minor updates, including revised bumpers and new wheel designs, with two-tone paint options for the LT and RS trims. The interior, though stylish with its red accents and Camaro-like controls, had an abundance of hard plastic, which detracted from its overall appeal.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer offered a more athletic appearance with its rear-drive platform, long hood, and floating roof design. The Explorer's interior, especially in higher trims, combined quality materials with some less impressive ones, reflecting its diverse model lineup. The Explorer's design was both functional and stylish, appealing to those who appreciated a robust and sporty look. However, the third-row seating was best suited for children due to limited space, and the interior storage solutions were somewhat lacking.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer LT came with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The higher trims, including the RS, featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine delivering 308 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque, also with a nine-speed automatic. The RS trim's dual-clutch AWD system enhanced its performance on low-traction surfaces. The Blazer's V6 engine provided satisfying acceleration, though it was often loud and unrefined. The SUV's handling was decent, but its sporty styling promised more driving dynamism than it delivered. Fuel consumption for the Blazer RS AWD was rated at 11.0 litres per 100 kilometres, but real-world testing showed an average of 11.5 L/100 km.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims featured a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. The Explorer's hybrid option, available on the Limited trim, combined a 3.3-litre V6 engine for a total of 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, offering better fuel efficiency. The top-tier ST and Platinum trims boasted a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine with 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, providing impressive acceleration and towing capacity. The Explorer's ride was robust and capable, both on and off-road, with a fuel consumption rating of 11.8 L/100 km for the twin-turbo V6.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer offered a comfortable and practical interior, with black leather upholstery and red accents in the RS trim. The front seats provided power adjustments and optional ventilation, though they lacked thigh support. The Blazer's rear seat was spacious and adjustable, allowing for increased cargo or passenger space. Storage solutions were ample, with a large glove compartment, centre armrest bin, and door panel shelves. The Blazer's cargo area measured 864 litres, expanding to 1,818 litres with the rear seats folded, though these figures were small for a midsize SUV.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided comfort for families, with available second-row bench seating for five passengers. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with available massaging and heating features. The second-row seats were nearly as accommodating, but the third-row was cramped and difficult for adults to access. The Explorer's interior storage was limited, with missed opportunities for additional compartments. The cargo area offered 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,132 litres with both rear rows folded, providing ample space for larger loads.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer featured a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, physical controls, and innovative air vent temperature adjustment rings. The RS trim included power-adjustable heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Blazer's rear seat offered USB ports and a power outlet, enhancing passenger convenience. The power rear liftgate, available with hands-free operation, revealed a modest cargo area.

The 2022 Ford Explorer came with two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, featuring either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the older Sync 3 technology lagged behind Ford's newer Sync 4 system, particularly in voice recognition capabilities. The Explorer's tech offerings included a digital instrumentation display and Active Park Assist 2.0, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer was equipped with the Chevy Safety Assist suite, including forward-collision alert, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. Additional safety features included a rear-seat reminder, Teen Driver technology, and an available Safety Alert Seat. The Blazer's adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance worked smoothly, though its headlights did not earn high ratings from the IIHS.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though the steering wheel's sensitivity to the driver's hands was occasionally problematic.