2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was more than just a pretty face, though its appealing styling certainly added to its charm. Chevrolet nailed the proportions, primary 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 base MSRP of $30,298, but options increased the sticker 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 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, with a standard 22-inch design in Canada. The front end received a restyle, featuring an Audi-esque grille with the Lincoln star and chrome detailing. While the grille was a rare misstep, the rest of the updates were successful. Inside, the Navigator dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring Lincoln’s Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display was a significant upgrade, offering ample display acreage. The Navigator was available in standard and long-wheelbase styles, with the Reserve trim level starting at $107,500, excluding the $2,395 destination charge.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured a turbocharged three-cylinder engine, with the larger 1.3-litre turbo engine being the default in Canada. This engine delivered 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque at 1,600 rpm, providing a sprightly driving experience. The Trailblazer offered a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with front-wheel drive (FWD) and a more satisfying nine-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel drive (AWD). The AWD powertrain also included a sophisticated rear suspension design for improved ride and handling. The RS trim rode on 18-inch aluminum wheels with 22/55 all-season tires, making it a nimble and fun-to-drive SUV. However, it was loud on highways, and the suspension struggled with speed bumps. The Trailblazer averaged 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, slightly above the official rating.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. It came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive (4WD) in Canada. The Navigator's towing capacity ranged from 3,674 to 3,765 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview identified bumps and adjusted damping forces accordingly. The Navigator handled various road conditions with ease, including snow and mud, thanks to its 24.5 centimetres of ground clearance and appropriate driving modes. Fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres, but during testing, it averaged 12.6 L/100 km.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite its small size, offered impressive functionality. It could accommodate four people comfortably, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat in the RS trim. The rear seat provided ample legroom but was shaped for cargo space rather than passenger comfort. The Trailblazer's cargo capacity was 716 litres, expandable to 1,540 litres with the rear seats folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing for long items to be transported.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator excelled in comfort and space. Its front seats were heated, ventilated, and offered 30-way power adjustments, ensuring a perfect driving position. The second-row captain’s chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, providing a luxurious experience. The third-row seat was spacious and comfortable, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator offered generous storage and cargo space, with 546 litres behind the third row, expandable to 2,925 litres with the second-row seats folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more cargo capacity.

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, along with Chevrolet Connected Services and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The test vehicle had an 8-inch display with access to Spotify, SiriusXM, and an optional 7-speaker Bose audio system. The system was user-friendly, with physical controls for easy operation. Additional features included remote engine starting, a keyless entry keypad, and a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator received a significant technology upgrade with the new Sync 4 infotainment system and a 13.2-inch touchscreen display. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, with user profiles for personalized settings. The voice recognition system was improved, though not perfect. The Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system now included Amazon Fire TV, providing access to streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime. The test vehicle also featured a 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system, delivering exceptional sound quality.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags and a rear-seat reminder system. Chevy Safety Assist was standard, offering advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, 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 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. A surround-view camera system was also standard. ActiveGlide, Lincoln’s semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways. While the system performed well, it required driver attention and intervention when necessary. These systems represented steps toward fully autonomous driving but emphasized the importance of driver responsibility.