2022 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2023 Volvo XC60

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 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 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, gave it an unfinished look. Inside, the Blazer echoed Camaro's design with an 8-inch touchscreen and innovative climate controls. Despite the presence of hard plastics, the interior's red accents in the RS trim added a touch of sophistication.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, a compact crossover SUV, was a testament to Volvo's design prowess, blending classic Scandinavian minimalism with modern technology. The XC60 offered three powertrains, including a PHEV option with an impressive electric range. The interior, especially in the Ultimate trim, was luxurious with Nappa leather, wood trim, and ambient lighting. The XC60's design, both inside and out, was aging gracefully, maintaining its status as a style leader. The cabin, though snug, was comfortable, with supportive seats and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of space. The XC60's design and build quality were top-notch, making it a standout in its class.

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. The V6, available on higher trims, provided satisfying acceleration but was often loud and unrefined. The Blazer's driving modes, including Tour, Sport, and Slippery, allowed for some customization, but the SUV's sporty styling promised more driving dynamism than it delivered. The Blazer's fuel consumption was slightly higher than expected, averaging 11.5 L/100 km in testing.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge combined a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 455 horsepower. This setup allowed for an impressive 58 kilometres of electric-only driving. The XC60's driving modes, including Hybrid, Power, and Pure, offered versatility, with Power mode enhancing performance. The XC60 was quick, reaching 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, and its updated powertrain made it the most powerful in Volvo's history. The XC60's fuel economy was commendable, averaging 4.3 L/100 km during testing, with the ability to recharge the battery while driving.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer's interior was spacious and practical, with black leather upholstery and red accents in the RS trim. The front seats offered power adjustments and heating, though they lacked thigh support. The rear seats were wide and flat, with ample legroom and the ability to slide for more cargo space. Storage was plentiful, with large glove compartments and door bins. The Blazer's cargo area measured 864 litres, expanding to 1,818 litres with the rear seats folded, though these figures were small for its class.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, while compact, offered exceptional comfort, especially in the front seats with Nappa leather and power cushion extensions. The rear seats, though tight on legroom, were comfortable, aided by a panoramic sunroof. Storage was decent, with practical spots for smaller items and a power liftgate revealing 730 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,792 litres with the rear seats down. The XC60's design allowed for efficient use of space, though the battery pack limited underfloor storage.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer featured a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen and physical controls. The RS trim included power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. The Blazer's technology was practical and easy to use, though the hands-free liftgate operation was inconsistent.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 boasted a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 9-inch Google Built-in infotainment system. The system offered Google Assistant, Maps, and Play, with support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The voice-recognition system was impressive, and the optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system provided exceptional audio quality. The XC60's technology was advanced and intuitive, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came standard 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 safety systems were effective, though its headlights did not earn high ratings from the IIHS.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, known for its safety innovations, included Pilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist. The system excelled on highways, and Oncoming Lane Mitigation helped avoid collisions. While the XC60 Recharge had not been rated by the NHTSA, the B5 and B6 models received top marks. The IIHS awarded the XC60 a Top Safety Pick+ rating, underscoring its safety credentials.