2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was a compact SUV that combined appealing aesthetics with practical design. Its styling was well-proportioned, with primary character lines and small details that were executed with precision. The option of a black, white, or red-painted roof added to its visual appeal. In Canada, the Trailblazer was available in four trims: LS, LT, Activ, and RS, with prices ranging from $25,998 to $30,298, plus a $1,900 destination charge from its South Korean factory. The RS trim, which was the most expensive at $30,298, could reach $37,653 with options. Despite its stylish interior, the cabin was filled with hard plastics, which detracted from its overall value.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, like other Toyota SUVs, borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia for a rugged look. However, its side profile introduced a swooping character line that added unnecessary visual weight, making it appear bloated. The rear design echoed the front grille, but the overall body felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid had an unconventional yet less jarring design, with an asymmetrical dash and metallic styling elements. The Bronze Edition featured unique 18-inch bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric upholstery, which, while distinctive, attracted dirt and stains. The Softex synthetic leather substitute was less convincing than alternatives, and genuine leather was only available in the top trims. The third row had more hard plastics and was less comfortable, but the Highlander Hybrid remained one of the few hybrids in its class, appealing to a specific audience.

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 made the Trailblazer feel lively, especially with the AWD option, which included a nine-speed automatic transmission and a more sophisticated rear suspension for improved handling. The RS trim featured 18-inch aluminum wheels with 22/55 all-season tires, contributing to its nimble and fun driving experience. However, the Trailblazer was noisy on highways, and its suspension struggled with speed bumps. Off-road, the Activ trim offered some capability with off-road suspension tuning and sport-terrain tires. Despite its small engine, the Trailblazer averaged 9.0 L/100 km in combined driving, slightly above the official rating.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a hybrid system, delivering 243 horsepower. It featured a CVT and standard AWD, with an electric motor powering the rear axle for additional traction. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 100 km/h in just over eight seconds, comparable to gasoline-only SUVs. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid response initially, with the gasoline engine taking over for sustained power. The CVT's lack of gear shifts resulted in a droning engine sound, especially on hills. Braking was smooth, with regenerative braking seamlessly transitioning to physical brakes. The Highlander Hybrid offered a soft ride, with a suspension that handled bumps well, and a quiet cabin on highways, making it a comfortable family vehicle.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite its compact 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, though flat, provided ample legroom and folded down to create a flat load floor for cargo. The Trailblazer's trunk held 716 litres of cargo, expandable to 1,540 litres with the rear seats folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing the SUV to carry items up to 2.5 metres long.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, with ample adjustments for drivers of all sizes. However, the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. The cabin offered plenty of storage, including a deep tray under the infotainment screen and a large centre armrest bin. The second-row seats were spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs or an optional bench for increased capacity. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space behind the third row was 453 litres, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded, and 2,387 litres with the second row stowed. Limited and Platinum trims included a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured a comprehensive infotainment system with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen. Standard features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with Chevrolet Connected Services available. The RS trim had an 8-inch screen with Spotify, SiriusXM, and an optional Bose audio system. The system was user-friendly, with physical controls for easy operation. Remote engine starting was available from the LT trim, and a keyless entry keypad system was offered.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for top trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging on Limited and Platinum trims. Satellite radio and remote vehicle monitoring were included, while navigation and a JBL audio system were standard on higher trims.

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

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid earned a five-star NHTSA rating and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert. A surround view camera and head-up display were available on the Platinum trim. The safety systems generally performed well, though some features required fine-tuning.