2022 Lexus NX vs 2022 Chevrolet Blazer

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer, available in Canada in LT, True North, Premier, and RS trims, offered a mix of turbocharged four-cylinder and V6 engines, with the latter providing a more robust performance. The RS trim featured a sophisticated twin-clutch AWD system, enhancing its responsiveness on challenging surfaces. The Blazer's design, inspired by the Camaro, was visually appealing, especially with 20-inch wheels, though some found the black trim on the rear bumper a bit odd. Inside, the Blazer echoed the Camaro's style with its infotainment and climate control systems, though the use of hard plastics was noticeable. The RS trim's red interior accents, matching the Cherry Red Tintcoat exterior, added a touch of sophistication.

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned for the year, came in four model series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. The NX 350, with its turbocharged engine, was the focus of this review. The NX's design was unmistakably Lexus, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details. The interior offered a minimalist look, a departure from the previous model's button-heavy dashboard. The NX provided a comfortable ride, with heated and ventilated seats and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada. The F Sport trim added sport-bolstered seats and unique interior features. Despite the decluttered design, some controls integrated into the touchscreen were challenging to use quickly.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer LT featured 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 V6 engine, standard on higher trims, delivered 308 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 2,040 kilograms. The Blazer RS, with its dual-clutch AWD system, offered a sporty driving experience, though the V6 engine was sometimes loud and unrefined. The Blazer's handling was decent, but its suspension and transmission performance on winding roads left room for improvement. Fuel consumption averaged 11.5 L/100 km during testing.

The 2022 Lexus NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine generating 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, with AWD standard in Canada. The NX 350h hybrid offered 239 horsepower, while the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivered 302 horsepower and an estimated 61 kilometres of electric range. The NX 350 F Sport, with its adaptive variable sports suspension and performance dampers, provided a more engaging driving experience. The NX's handling was impressive, though the turbocharged engine lacked the refinement of some German rivals. Fuel consumption for the NX 350 was estimated at 9.5 L/100 km, with the F Sport averaging 10.6 L/100 km during testing.

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 adjustment and heating, though they lacked side bolsters and thigh support. The Blazer's rear seat was spacious and adjustable, with ample legroom and storage options. The 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 Lexus NX provided a cozy and comfortable interior, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada. The F Sport trim offered better-bolstered seats for a sportier feel. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space and amenities, including rear air vents and USB ports. The NX's cargo space increased by 14% to 643 litres, expanding to 1,328 litres with the rear seats folded. The panoramic sunroof added to the sense of space and light in the cabin.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer featured a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, physical controls, and innovative temperature adjustment rings. The RS trim included a power tilt and telescopic steering wheel with heating, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power rear liftgate. Storage options were plentiful, with a large glove compartment and various bins and pockets throughout the cabin.

The 2022 Lexus NX took a significant leap forward in technology with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen available. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, and cloud-based features. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system optional. The NX also offered a digital mirror, head-up display, and various connected services, though the touchscreen's reflective surface and lack of a tuning knob were noted drawbacks.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came standard with the Chevy Safety Assist suite, including forward-collision alert, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep 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 well, though its headlights did not earn high ratings from the IIHS.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including lane keep assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. New features included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection. The NX also offered blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist. The Emergency Driving Stop System was tested and proved effective in bringing the vehicle to a safe stop.