2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2022 Buick Enclave

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was more than just a pretty face, though its appealing styling certainly added to its charm. Chevrolet nailed the proportions, character lines, and intricate details, with options for a black, white, or red-painted roof enhancing its visual appeal. Canadian buyers had four Trailblazer models to choose from: LS, LT, Activ, and RS, with prices ranging from $25,998 to $30,298. The RS trim, which we tested, had a base MSRP of $30,298, but options pushed the price to $37,653, including the destination charge. Despite its stylish interior, the cabin was filled with hard plastic, which detracted from its overall value proposition.

In contrast, the 2022 Buick Enclave took a more conservative approach to styling, reflecting its traditional customer base. However, over the past 15 years, Buick had shifted its focus from sedans to SUVs, aligning with market trends. The Enclave, a three-row crossover SUV, debuted in 2008 and received a significant redesign in 2018, moving it further upmarket. For 2022, the Enclave received a mid-cycle refresh with exterior styling enhancements and interior upgrades, including a restyled centre console and improved materials. The Avenir trim, which we tested, featured unique design elements and a luxurious interior, offering a near-luxury experience.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured a turbocharged 1.3-litre three-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in front-wheel drive (FWD) models, provided a sprightly driving experience. All-wheel drive (AWD) models, however, came with a more satisfying nine-speed automatic transmission and a sophisticated rear suspension design, enhancing ride and handling. The Trailblazer's light curb weight, turbocharged torque, and 18-inch aluminum wheels contributed to its nimble and fun-to-drive nature. However, it was loud on highways, and its suspension struggled with speed bumps. Fuel consumption averaged 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly above the official rating.

The 2022 Buick Enclave, on the other hand, was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine with direct injection, delivering 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, provided a smooth and responsive driving experience. The Enclave's AWD system was standard across all trims, and its maximum towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms. The Avenir Technology package, included in our test vehicle, enhanced the ride quality with premium suspension and real-time chassis damping. Buick's QuietTuning and active noise cancellation technology ensured a serene cabin environment, rivaling luxury vehicles.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite its small size, offered impressive functionality. It could accommodate four passengers comfortably, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat in the RS trim. The rear seat, though roomy, was shaped for cargo versatility rather than passenger comfort. The Trailblazer's cargo space was notable, with 716 litres available behind the rear seats and 1,540 litres with the seats folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing for long items to be transported.

The 2022 Buick Enclave excelled in passenger comfort and space. With easy ingress and egress, the Enclave offered excellent visibility and comfortable seating for up to six adults. The second-row captain's chairs facilitated access to the third row, which was spacious enough for adults. The restyled centre console featured push-button transmission gears, and the Enclave provided ample cargo space, with 668 litres behind the third row and up to 2,758 litres with all seats folded. Power-folding third-row seats added convenience.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer came equipped with a comprehensive infotainment system, featuring a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen display. Standard features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with options for a Bose premium audio system and wireless smartphone charging. The system was user-friendly, with physical controls for easy navigation. Additional technologies included a keyless entry keypad system and a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2022 Buick Enclave offered a robust infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen standard on the Essence trim. Premium and Avenir trims added navigation and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. The Enclave's system supported up to 10 paired devices and included a Wi-Fi hotspot. Standard safety features included a following-distance indicator and Teen Driver technology. The Avenir trim added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and a head-up display.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder system, and Teen Driver technology. Chevy Safety Assist was standard, offering advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional features included blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer earned top crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2022 Buick Enclave received significant safety updates, with the Buick Driver Confidence Plus package standard across all trims. This included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist. Premium trim added enhanced emergency braking and a surround-view camera. The Enclave earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS, except for an "Acceptable" score in the updated side-impact test.