2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was a compact SUV that combined appealing aesthetics with practical design. Its proportions, character lines, and small details were well-executed, and the option for a contrasting roof colour added to its visual appeal. Available in four trims—LS, LT, Activ, and RS—the Trailblazer offered a range of features and pricing from $25,998 to $30,298, with an additional $1,900 destination charge. The RS trim, which was the most expensive, featured a stylish interior, though it was marred by the presence of hard plastics. Despite this, the cabin maintained a sense of style, making it a popular choice for those seeking a budget-friendly yet stylish SUV.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX retained a classic design reminiscent of its first-generation model, with the signature spindle grille and LED headlights being its most modern features. Inside, the GX boasted high-quality materials and a refined cabin, characteristic of the Lexus brand. The SUV was available in Standard, Premium, and Executive trims, with prices ranging from $72,100 to $83,750, excluding a $2,145 destination charge. The Black Line Special Edition, based on the Premium trim, added unique styling elements. Despite its dated design, the GX's interior quality and quiet ride were notable, offering a luxurious experience for its occupants.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was powered by a turbocharged 1.3-litre three-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque at 1,600 rpm. This engine provided a lively driving experience, especially when paired with the available all-wheel drive (AWD) and nine-speed automatic transmission. The AWD model also featured a more advanced rear suspension, enhancing ride and handling. The Trailblazer's light curb weight and turbocharged torque made it nimble and fun to drive, though it was noisy on highways and had a bouncy ride on uneven surfaces. Fuel consumption was rated at 9.0 L/100 km in combined driving, slightly higher than the official rating of 8.4 L/100 km with AWD.

The 2022 Lexus GX, on the other hand, was equipped with a 4.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. This powertrain, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, provided a smooth and refined driving experience. The GX's towing capacity was impressive at 2,948 kilograms, and its Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) improved stability and off-road capability. However, its fuel consumption was high, with a rating of 14.5 L/100 km in combined driving. Despite its age, the GX remained capable off-road, though its steering and brake pedal were less refined.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered impressive functionality for its size, with ample room for four passengers and a versatile cargo area. The RS trim featured a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat, providing a comfortable driving position. The rear seat, while spacious, was less comfortable due to its flat design. The Trailblazer's cargo capacity was notable, with 716 litres available behind the rear seats and 1,540 litres with the seats folded down. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing for the transport of long items.

In comparison, the 2022 Lexus GX provided a comfortable and elevated driving position, with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear visibility. The interior featured high-quality materials and physical controls, though some switchgear was outdated. The GX's rear seat offered ample legroom, but access was challenging due to narrow door openings. The third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space, with only 328 litres available behind it. With the third row stowed, cargo capacity increased to 1,322 litres, and with the second row folded, it reached 1,833 litres. The side-opening tailgate made loading cumbersome, especially in tight spaces.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer came equipped with a user-friendly infotainment system featuring a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen. Standard features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with options for a Wi-Fi hotspot and a Bose premium audio system. The system's intuitive design and physical controls made it easy to use, though advanced technologies were limited.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a significant improvement over previous models. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation, along with a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. The system's dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition enhanced usability, though the placement of stereo controls was less intuitive. Standard Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras added to the GX's technological offerings.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder, and Teen Driver technology. Chevy Safety Assist was standard, offering a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. 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 Lexus GX, lacking crash-test ratings, relied on its standard Lexus Safety System+ for safety. This included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Additional features like blind-spot monitoring and Safety Connect services were also standard. However, the GX lacked some modern safety technologies found in competitors, which may appeal to those preferring fewer driving aids.