2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2023 Genesis GV70

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 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.

The 2023 Genesis GV70, on the other hand, was a testament to luxury and design excellence. Its styling drew connections to the G70 compact luxury sedan, with split-bar headlights and a strong chrome line that visually linked it to its sedan counterpart. The GV70's interior was a showcase of top-notch materials and impeccable fit and finish, exuding both contemporary and classic aesthetics. The climate controls were integrated into a curving bezel, and the touchscreen rose organically from the dash. The GV70's cabin was a luxurious space, with a full touchscreen backed by a rotary dial and helpful button controls, offering a superior user experience compared to some competitors.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was powered by a turbocharged 1.3-litre three-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in front-wheel drive (FWD) models, provided a sprightly driving experience. The all-wheel drive (AWD) version, which included a nine-speed automatic transmission, offered improved ride and handling qualities. The Trailblazer's light curb weight, turbocharged torque, and 18-inch aluminum wheels made it a nimble and fun-to-drive SUV. However, it was loud on highways, and its suspension struggled with speed bumps. The Trailblazer averaged 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, slightly higher than the official rating.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD. The GV70 provided a refined driving experience, blending comfort and sharp handling. The Electrified GV70 featured a 77.4-kWh battery pack, dual electric motors, and a combined output of 429 horsepower, with a Boost Mode increasing it to 483 horsepower. It offered 383 kilometres of range and could charge from 10% to 80% in 18 minutes on a fast charger. The GV70's handling was well-rounded, leaning slightly towards comfort.

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 and a high seating position for easy entry and exit. The rear seat, though roomy, was shaped like a park bench, prioritizing a flat load floor over passenger comfort. The Trailblazer provided 716 litres of cargo space, 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 2023 Genesis GV70 offered 1,611 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 818 litres with them in use, making it above average in its class. It featured a hands-free power liftgate, large cupholders in the centre console, and a helpful tray with a retractable lid. While the front seats were comfortable and easily adjustable, the rear seats had tighter legroom, requiring front-row occupants to slide their seats forward. The rear bench reclined for added comfort.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with a comprehensive infotainment system featuring a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen display. Standard features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with options for Chevrolet Connected Services and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Our test vehicle had the larger touchscreen, access to Spotify and SiriusXM, and an optional 7-speaker Bose audio system. The system was user-friendly, with physical controls for easy navigation. Additional features included remote engine starting, a keyless entry keypad, and a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 boasted a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was intuitive, with large icons and logical menu navigation. It included four USB ports, wireless device charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a nine-speaker stereo system. Available features included ambient lighting, a digital instrument panel, a Lexicon 18-speaker audio system, and the Genesis digital key. The rotary dial for the infotainment system was located near the vehicle's rotary shifter, which could cause confusion.

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, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high-beam headlights. Optional features included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer earned top crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, driver attention monitoring, blind-spot monitoring, and highway driving assist. The 2.5T Advanced Plus added a blind-spot camera system and a 360-degree parking camera system, while the Prestige grade included reverse automatic emergency braking. The Electrified GV70 included much of this equipment as standard. The GV70 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.