2022 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2022 Toyota Venza

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer, available in Canada in LT, True North, Premier, and RS trims, offered a mix of sporty design and practicality. The LT featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with FWD or optional AWD, while other trims came with a V6 and standard AWD. The RS trim boasted a sophisticated twin-clutch AWD system for better traction. The Blazer's design, inspired by the Camaro, included two-tone paint options and revised styling for the Premier trim. Despite its appealing exterior, some found the rear bumper's black trim awkward. Inside, the Blazer echoed Camaro elements with an 8-inch touchscreen and innovative climate controls, though it had noticeable hard plastic surfaces. The RS trim's red interior accents matched the Cherry Red Tintcoat exterior, adding sophistication.

The 2022 Toyota Venza, reintroduced in 2021, was built on the TGNA-K platform, shared with several Toyota and Lexus models. It measured 4,739 mm in length, making it compact for a midsize SUV. The Venza's design was sleek, with a scalloped body and LED lighting, resembling a Lexus. Its interior was elegant, featuring high-quality materials and a well-placed touchscreen. The front seats were supportive, and the rear seats comfortably accommodated three adults. The Venza's design prioritized urban environments over rugged terrains, with standard 18-inch alloy wheels.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer LT came with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It offered multiple driving modes and remote engine start. Higher trims featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine with 308 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque, also with a nine-speed automatic. The RS trim's dual-clutch AWD system enhanced performance on low-traction surfaces. The V6 could tow up to 2,040 kg. The Blazer RS felt sporty in urban settings, but its suspension and transmission were less responsive on winding roads. Fuel consumption was rated at 11.0 L/100 km, but real-world testing showed 11.5 L/100 km.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine and three electric motors, delivering 219 horsepower combined. Its hybrid system balanced electric and gas power for efficiency, with AWD provided by rear electric motors. Drivers could choose from EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport modes. Regenerative braking recharged the battery, and the Venza's performance was agile, similar to the Camry. It wasn't designed for aggressive driving but excelled as a family vehicle, offering a smooth ride and efficient fuel consumption.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer offered a comfortable and practical interior. The RS trim featured black leather with red accents, power-adjustable heated front seats, and dual-zone climate control. The rear seat was spacious and adjustable, enhancing cargo or passenger space. Storage options included a large glove compartment and centre armrest bin. The power liftgate, available with hands-free operation, revealed a 864-litre cargo area, expandable to 1,818 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Toyota Venza seated five with ample headroom and legroom. The second row offered 114.8 cm of hip room, suitable for three adults. Convenience features included power-adjustable front seats, an electric parking brake, and a spacious glove compartment. The Venza's cargo capacity was 816 litres, expanding to 1,560 litres with the rear seats down. Toyota focused on cabin quietness, using sound-blocking materials for a serene ride.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer featured an 8-inch touchscreen with physical controls, dual-zone climate control, and multiple USB ports. The RS trim included a power liftgate and hands-free operation. Storage was ample, with various compartments for passengers.

The 2022 Toyota Venza offered a hybrid system with no need for charging infrastructure. It featured an 8-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and multiple USB ports. Higher trims added a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio, and a head-up display. Toyota Connected Services provided safety and remote features.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer included Chevy Safety Assist with forward-collision alert, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. Additional features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring were available. The Blazer's safety systems were effective, though its headlights received lower ratings from the IIHS.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came with the Toyota Star Safety System and eight airbags. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA.