2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2022 Kia Sorento

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 small details, making the Trailblazer a visually attractive option. The availability of a black, white, or red-painted roof further enhanced its appeal. In Canada, the Trailblazer was available in four models: LS, LT, Activ, and RS, with prices ranging from $25,998 to $30,298. The RS trim, which we tested, had a starting MSRP of $30,298, but options increased 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.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia Sorento exuded a sense of quality and style, especially in the X-Line trim, which added rugged bumpers, matte-finish wheels, and robust roof rails. The Sorento's interior was luxurious, with leather upholstery and simulated wood trim, and the attention to detail was evident throughout the cabin. In Canada, the Sorento offered a range of powertrains, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, with pricing starting at $34,595 for the gas-only model. The Sorento's cabin was well-constructed, with comfortable seating and ample storage solutions, though the third-row seat was best suited for children. Overall, the Sorento provided a sense of value and satisfaction with every drive.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured a turbocharged 1.3-litre three-cylinder engine, producing 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque at 1,600 rpm. This engine made the Trailblazer feel lively, especially with the AWD option, which included a nine-speed automatic transmission and a more sophisticated rear suspension. The Trailblazer's light curb weight and turbocharged torque contributed to its nimble handling, making it fun to drive around town. However, the Trailblazer was loud on highways, and its suspension struggled with speed bumps. Fuel consumption averaged 9.0 L/100 km, slightly higher than the official rating of 8.4 L/100 km with AWD.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's base engine was a 191-hp 2.5-litre four-cylinder, which was underwhelming in terms of performance. However, the turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, producing 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, offered a more satisfying driving experience. This engine was paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, providing a lively and engaging drive. The Sorento's suspension was well-tuned, offering a balance of comfort and control. Fuel consumption was higher than expected, with an average of 11.5 L/100 km during testing, compared to the official rating of 9.9 L/100 km with the turbo engine.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite its compact 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 provided ample legroom but was less comfortable due to its flat design. The Trailblazer's cargo space was versatile, with 716 litres available in the trunk and up to 1,540 litres with the rear seats folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing for the transport of long items.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's interior was luxurious, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain's chairs were designed for children, with convenient storage solutions and a panoramic sunroof. However, the third-row seat was cramped and best suited for occasional use. The Sorento offered 357 litres of cargo space with all seats in use, expanding to 1,274 litres with the third row folded and 2,139 litres with the second row down. The smart power tailgate added convenience when loading cargo.

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. The system was user-friendly, with appealing graphics and a smartphone-style interface. Our test vehicle had the larger touchscreen, access to Spotify and SiriusXM, and an optional Bose audio system. However, the Trailblazer lacked advanced technology features beyond remote engine starting and a keyless entry keypad.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered an 8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with the latter including navigation and satellite radio. The system was intuitive, though the graphics and colours might not appeal to everyone. The Sorento shared its infotainment technology with Hyundai, though the voice recognition system was less effective. A 12-speaker Bose audio system was reserved for the SX trim, and a wireless phone charger was standard from the LX Premium trim.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder system, and Teen Driver technology. Chevy Safety Assist was standard, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. Optional features included blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer received top crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system with ultrasonic sensors and Junction Assist. The Blind View Monitor system was available on the SX trim, enhancing blind-spot awareness. Highway Driving Assist provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The Sorento earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though its LED headlights received a Poor rating. The NHTSA awarded the Sorento a four-star overall crash-test rating.