2022 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer, available in Canada in LT, True North, Premier, and RS trims, offered a blend of sporty aesthetics and practicality. The LT trim featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive, while other trims came with a V6 engine and all-wheel drive. The RS trim stood out with its advanced twin-clutch AWD system, enhancing its performance on low-traction surfaces. The Blazer's design, inspired by the Camaro, was visually appealing, especially with 20-inch wheels. However, the black trim on the rear bumper gave it an unfinished look. Inside, the Blazer echoed Camaro's design with an 8-inch touchscreen and innovative climate controls, though it was marred by hard plastic surfaces. The RS trim's red interior accents added a touch of sophistication, complementing the exterior paint.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator exuded luxury and modernity. It featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The Grand Touring model added a hybrid system, enhancing its power and efficiency. The Aviator's design was marked by a successful execution of Lincoln's modern face and grille, though the wheel designs were considered plain. The Aviator's interior was a blend of high-end materials and Art Deco styling, with features like a panoramic sunroof and ambient lighting. However, some chrome detailing felt cheap, and the key fob was bulky and plasticky. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Aviator's interior was undeniably fancy and comfortable.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer offered a choice between a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower and a 3.6-litre V6 engine generating 308 horsepower. The V6, available on higher trims, provided satisfying acceleration but was often loud and unrefined. The Blazer's nine-speed automatic transmission and various driving modes, including Sport and Tow/Haul, catered to different driving conditions. However, the Blazer's sporty styling promised more driving dynamism than it delivered, with the suspension and steering falling short of expectations. The Blazer RS averaged 11.5 L/100 km in combined driving, slightly above the official rating.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, boasted impressive power with 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. It offered 34 kilometres of electric driving range and averaged 10.3 L/100 km in hybrid mode. The Aviator's various driving modes, including Pure EV and Excite, allowed for efficient and dynamic driving experiences. Despite its power, the Aviator's drivetrain was sometimes unpredictable, with inconsistent acceleration and braking. The available Dynamic Handling Package improved the Aviator's suspension, providing a smooth and stable ride. However, the Aviator's steering was heavy and numb, making it less engaging to drive.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer provided a comfortable and practical interior, with black leather upholstery and red accents lending a sporty appearance. The front seats offered power adjustment and heating, though they lacked thigh support. The Blazer's dual-zone climate control and rear air vents ensured passenger comfort. The back seat was spacious and adjustable, allowing for increased cargo space. The Blazer's storage options were impressive, with a large glove compartment and various bins and pockets. However, its cargo space was limited, with a maximum volume of 1,818 litres.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone climate control system and massaging, 30-way adjustable front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were roomy and supportive, though the third row was cramped and lacked leg support. The Aviator's cargo space was limited with the third row in use, offering 519 litres, but expanded to 2,200 litres with the seats folded. The Aviator's interior was luxurious, with high-end materials and ample storage options.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer featured a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen and physical controls. It offered standard dual-zone climate control and various storage options. The Blazer's power rear liftgate, available on higher trims, had a hit-and-miss success rate. Overall, the Blazer's technology was practical and easy to use.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was loaded with technology, including a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, it ran on the outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The Aviator's Revel Ultima 3D audio system and digital instrumentation were impressive, and the optional Phone As A Key system added convenience. The Aviator's parking sensors and camera system were useful, though the Active Park Assist 2.0 system was not tested.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came standard with the Chevy Safety Assist suite, including forward-collision alert, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. It also featured a rear-seat reminder system and Teen Driver technology. Available upgrades included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The Blazer's safety systems were effective and user-friendly, though its headlights were not highly rated by the IIHS.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The Aviator's driver aids performed well, though they were less reliable in heavy traffic. The steering wheel controls were unnecessarily complicated, detracting from the user experience. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.