2023 Lexus RX 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 AWD system in the RS trim. The Blazer's design, inspired by the Camaro, featured a sporty exterior with options for two-tone paint and 20-inch wheels. However, some design elements, like the black trim on the rear bumper, gave it an unfinished look. Inside, the Blazer echoed the Camaro's style with an 8-inch touchscreen and innovative climate controls, though it was marred by hard plastics. The RS trim's red interior accents added a touch of sophistication, especially when paired with the Cherry Red Tintcoat exterior.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX, built in Canada, marked its fifth generation with a design that was shorter in height but broader and longer in wheelbase. Its exterior featured a spindle-style grille, upswept body sides, and a light-blade taillight design, giving it a modern yet familiar Lexus look. The interior was thoroughly modern, with fewer buttons and a focus on digital instrumentation and touchscreen displays. The RX offered high-quality materials, including NuLuxe artificial leather and real wood trims. Available in various trims, including hybrid options, the RX provided a range of powertrains and a starting price higher than the Blazer, reflecting its luxury status.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer LT came with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Higher trims featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine with 308 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque, also mated to a nine-speed automatic. The RS trim's dual-clutch AWD system enhanced responsiveness on low-traction surfaces. 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 offered a sporty feel, its suspension and transmission were less refined on challenging roads. Fuel consumption averaged 11.5 L/100 km during testing.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350 AWD, standard in Canada, offered a smooth ride with occasional torque steer and body motion over uneven surfaces. The F Sport 3 trim's adaptive suspension improved handling, especially in Sport mode. The RX 350's estimated fuel economy was 9.9 L/100 km, with test results slightly higher. The turbo engine provided satisfying performance, though it lacked the refinement of the previous V6.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer's interior was comfortable and practical, with black leather upholstery and red accents in the RS trim. The front seats offered power adjustment and heating, though they lacked thigh support. Dual-zone climate control and rear air vents ensured comfort, while ample storage space was available throughout the cabin. The Blazer's rear seat was spacious and adjustable, with a cargo area of 864 litres, expandable to 1,818 litres with the seats folded.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350's interior was luxurious, with semi-aniline leather in the Executive trim and NuLuxe simulated leather in the F Sport 3. The RX offered power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats, with a heated steering wheel. The back seat provided good leg support and room, though headroom was tight for taller passengers. The RX's cargo space measured 838 litres, expandable to 1,308 litres, offering more room than the previous generation but still limited for the segment.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer featured an 8-inch touchscreen with simple controls, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the liftgate's hands-free operation was inconsistent. The Blazer offered USB ports and a household-style power outlet for connectivity.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the Lexus Interface multimedia system with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services like Drive Connect with Intelligent Assistant. The system allowed user profiles and music streaming, though it lacked multi-panel viewing. The RX offered a Mark Levinson sound system, digital instrumentation, and optional HUD, though the latter was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, including forward-collision alert, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. Optional features included a Safety Alert Seat, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Blazer's safety systems were effective, though its headlights were not highly rated by the IIHS.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and new features like motorcycle detection and evasive steering assistance. Semi-autonomous technologies included Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist, though some features, like curve-speed reduction, were less intuitive. The RX's safety systems were generally impressive, though the HUD's visibility issues and driver monitoring system could be problematic.