2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Chevrolet Blazer

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer, available in Canada in LT, True North, Premier, and RS trims, presented a bold design inspired by the Camaro. It featured a standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive or optional all-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. Inside, the Blazer's design echoed the Camaro, with an 8-inch touchscreen and innovative climate controls. However, the interior was marred by hard plastics, particularly on the upper door panels. The RS trim's red interior accents matched the Cherry Red Tintcoat exterior, adding a touch of sophistication.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler, with its rugged, no-nonsense design, offered both two-door and four-door Unlimited models. Its iconic features included a fold-down windshield, removable doors, and various top options for open-air adventures. The Wrangler's design was simple and functional, with wide fenders, a seven-slot grille, and round headlights. The limited-edition "Reign" purple paint added flair to the otherwise utilitarian look. Inside, the Wrangler prioritized practicality with easy-to-clean materials and a body-coloured dash. However, storage was limited, and the rear seat was cramped. The Wrangler's versatility shone through with its removable tops and ample charging points, making it a favourite for off-road enthusiasts.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer offered a choice between a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 228 horsepower and a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 308 horsepower. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, with the RS trim featuring a dual-clutch AWD system. The Blazer's driving modes included Tour, Sport, Slippery, and Tow/Haul, with a towing capacity of up to 2,040 kilograms for the V6. While the Blazer RS delivered a sporty feel with decent grip and capable brakes, its performance on winding roads was less impressive, with slow downshifts and artificial steering heft in Sport mode. Fuel consumption averaged 11.5 L/100 km, slightly above the official rating.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler excelled in off-road performance, offering a range of engine options, including the standard Pentastar V6 with 285 horsepower, a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower, and the powerful 6.4-litre V8 in the Rubicon 392 with 470 horsepower. The Wrangler's off-road prowess was enhanced by solid axles, optional differential lockers, and various transfer cases. The 392 model, with its full-time 4WD and Off-Road Plus mode, delivered exhilarating acceleration and a crawl ratio of 58:1 with the Xtreme Recon package. However, the 392's on-road performance was hampered by inadequate brakes and vague steering. Other Wrangler trims offered better-suited brakes and steering for everyday driving.

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 adjustments, heating, and optional ventilation, though they lacked thigh support. Dual-zone climate control and rear air vents ensured passenger comfort. The Blazer's back seat was spacious and adjustable, while storage options included a large glove compartment and various bins. The power rear liftgate revealed a cargo area of 864 litres, expandable to 1,818 litres with the rear seats folded, though these figures were modest for a midsize SUV.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's front seats were comfortable, with heated options available in higher trims. The rear seat was cramped, especially in the four-door models, and access was challenging due to small rear doors. Storage was limited, with a small glove box and centre console, though a dash bin provided some space. The Wrangler's cargo area offered 2,050 litres with the rear seats folded, slightly less than the Bronco. The Wrangler's removable tops and various configurations allowed for open-air experiences, with the Sky One-Touch power soft top offering quick and easy operation.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer featured a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, physical controls, and innovative climate controls. The RS trim's interior design was sporty, with red accents matching the exterior. The Blazer offered dual-zone climate control, USB ports, and a household-style power outlet. Storage options were plentiful, with a large glove compartment and various bins. The power rear liftgate, available in RS and Premier trims, provided hands-free operation, though its success rate was inconsistent.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect system, with an optional 8.4-inch screen in our tester. The system, while initially complex, offered comprehensive off-road information and connectivity features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Wrangler's tech was practical, with a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches for aftermarket accessories. However, it lacked advanced features like a digital key or over-the-air updates for vehicle performance.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came equipped 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 smoothly, though its headlights received low ratings from the IIHS.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's safety features were limited, with only a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control as standard. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were available only on higher trims or as part of an option package. The Wrangler received mixed ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with some trims' headlights rated poorly.