2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

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 allure. 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. AWD was standard on all trims except the LT, which featured FWD and a CVT instead of the 9-speed automatic transmission. The RS trim, priced at $30,298, could reach $37,653 with options, though the interior's hard plastic made such a price seem excessive. Despite this, the cabin had a stylish flair.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, continuing its second generation into its 14th year, showcased a mature design that stood the test of time. Its exterior maintained a tasteful balance with a modest grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight body lines. The Sequoia's dimensions were substantial, with a height of 1,956 mm, a width of 2,030 mm, and a length of 5,210 mm, riding on a 3,099 mm wheelbase. Inside, the Sequoia's age showed, with a dated dashboard and a 7-inch touchscreen that paled in comparison to modern SUVs. However, the interior was quintessentially Toyota, with tight seams, high-quality materials, and a durable build, making it suitable for families. The US-spec Nightshade Special Edition, based on the Limited model, demonstrated Toyota's efforts to keep the Sequoia relevant.

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, giving it a lively feel. The FWD models came with a CVT, while AWD versions boasted a 9-speed automatic transmission and a more advanced rear suspension for better handling. The RS trim rode on 18-inch aluminum wheels with 22/55 all-season tires, making it nimble and fun to drive. However, the Trailblazer was noisy on highways, and its suspension struggled with speed bumps. Off-road, caution was necessary to avoid damaging the underside. The Trailblazer averaged 9.0 L/100 km in combined driving, slightly above the official rating of 8.4 L/100 km for AWD models.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, it featured a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential and a two-speed transfer case for 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck roots provided a payload capacity of up to 608 kg and a towing capacity of 3,221 kg. Despite its 2,721.5 kg weight, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable highway ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and independent double-wishbone suspension. The TRD Pro model further enhanced off-road performance with Fox shocks. Fuel consumption was high, with ratings of 18.5 L/100 km in the city and 16.4 combined.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, though compact, excelled in functionality. It could accommodate four passengers comfortably, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat in the RS trim. The rear seat, while roomy, was less comfortable due to its flat design, likely intended for a flat load floor when folded. The Trailblazer offered 716 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,540 litres with the rear seats down. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing for long items up to 2.5 metres.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, with spacious seating across all three rows and three-zone climate control. A power moonroof and heated front seats were standard, with heated rear seats available on the Platinum grade. The Sequoia's cargo area featured a 12-volt outlet and could hold 535 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,886 litres with the third row folded, and 3,401 litres with both rear rows down. Storage was ample, with a large centre console, glove compartment, and door pockets.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with a comprehensive infotainment system, featuring a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Chevrolet Connected Services, including a Wi-Fi hotspot, were available. The RS trim included a 7-speaker Bose audio system and wireless smartphone charging. The system was user-friendly, with physical controls for easy navigation. Remote engine starting and a keyless entry keypad were available from the LT trim.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a clunky operating system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, as was Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims added navigation and a 14-speaker JBL audio system. The Sequoia lacked modern powertrain technologies, sticking with a naturally aspirated V8. However, it featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety technologies like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder, and Teen Driver technology. Chevy Safety Assist included 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 earned top crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS but offered a comprehensive suite of safety features. Toyota Safety Sense P included pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. The STAR safety system added stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. The Sequoia also featured a full complement of airbags, crumple zones, and parking-assist sonar.