2022 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer, available in Canada in LT, True North, Premier, and RS trims, offered a blend of sporty aesthetics and practical features. The LT trim came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and the option of front-wheel or all-wheel drive, while higher trims boasted a V6 engine with standard AWD. The RS trim featured a sophisticated twin-clutch AWD system for better traction. The Blazer's design, inspired by the Camaro, was visually appealing, especially with 20-inch wheels. However, some design elements, like the black trim on the rear bumper, were less well-received. Inside, the Blazer echoed the Camaro's style with an 8-inch touchscreen and innovative climate controls, though the use of hard plastics was noted. The RS trim's interior, with red accents matching the Cherry Red Tintcoat exterior, added a touch of sophistication.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5, while not drastically changed in appearance, featured new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille and liftgate. The Signature trim received body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing its premium appeal. Inside, the CX-5 maintained its luxurious feel with Nappa leather, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats improved comfort, addressing previous complaints about the seating position. The CX-5's interior was well-equipped with dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the infotainment system, lacking a touchscreen and natural voice recognition, required some acclimation. Despite this, the CX-5's interior and exterior updates contributed to its premium brand aspirations.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer offered a choice between a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 308 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, with the V6 available on higher trims and offering a more advanced AWD system on the RS trim. The Blazer's driving modes included Tour, Sport, Slippery, and Tow/Haul, with the V6 capable of towing up to 2,040 kilograms. While the Blazer RS provided a firm and sporty ride, its performance on winding roads was less impressive, with slow downshifts and artificial steering heft in Sport mode. Fuel consumption was rated at 11.0 litres per 100 kilometres, though real-world testing showed 11.5 L/100 km.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured a standard Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. Fuel consumption was rated at 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The turbocharged engine option delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, with a consumption rating of 9.8 L/100 km. The CX-5's driving dynamics were enhanced by increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension, providing a quieter, smoother ride with reduced body roll. The new Mi-Drive system offered Normal, Sport, and Off-Road modes, contributing to a more engaging driving experience. The CX-5's improved ride and handling made it a compelling alternative to entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer provided a comfortable and practical interior, with black leather upholstery and red accents in the RS trim. The front seats offered power adjustment, heating, and optional ventilation, though they lacked side bolsters and thigh support. The Blazer's dual-zone climate control and effective air conditioning ensured comfort in various weather conditions. The rear seat was spacious, with sliding functionality to adjust cargo or passenger space. Storage options were plentiful, 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 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints with new, supportive seats and a sportier driving position. The interior featured leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. The back seat remained snug, but heated cushions and air vents improved passenger comfort. The infotainment system, lacking a touchscreen, required adjustment to the centre console controls. Storage space was limited, with a small centre armrest bin and door panel bins. The CX-5's cargo capacity was 871 litres, expanding to 1,680 litres with the rear seats folded, offering competitive space compared to entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer featured a user-friendly interior with an 8-inch touchscreen and physical controls. The RS trim included power-adjustable front seats with heating and optional ventilation, dual-zone climate control, and a heated steering wheel. The Blazer's storage solutions were practical, with a large glove compartment and centre armrest bin. The power rear liftgate, available on higher trims, offered hands-free operation, though its reliability was inconsistent. The Blazer's cargo space was smaller than average for its class.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, though it lacked touchscreen functionality and natural voice recognition. The system required use of centre console and steering wheel controls, which took time to master. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mazda Connected Services. Higher trims offered a 10-speaker Bose sound system, which performed adequately. The CX-5's tech package was comprehensive, though the lack of a touchscreen was a notable drawback.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came standard with the Chevy Safety Assist suite, including forward-collision alert, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional safety features included a rear-seat reminder, Teen Driver technology, and an optional Safety Alert Seat. The Blazer's adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance were effective, though its headlights did not earn high ratings from the IIHS.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a comprehensive i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials.