2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2023 Hyundai Palisade

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 small 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 but the LT trim, which featured a CVT instead of the default 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 sense of style.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade, Hyundai's largest SUV, was hard to miss on the road, especially after its 2023 styling update. The new front fascia, with bolder strokes and a squared-off grille, gave it a commanding presence. LED accents and headlights were standard, with premium rear accent lighting and a unique grille on the Ultimate Calligraphy trim. In Canada, 20-inch alloy wheels were standard, with the Ultimate Calligraphy trim featuring a new multi-spoke design. A new colour, Robust Emerald, was available, adding a subtle elegance. The interior of the Ultimate Calligraphy trim was stylish, with premium Nappa leather and a dual-pane sunroof. The Palisade offered a range of seating configurations, with second-row captain's chairs standard on the Ultimate Calligraphy trim.

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, making it feel lively. The AWD version came with a 9-speed automatic transmission and a more sophisticated rear suspension, enhancing ride and handling. The RS trim rode on 18-inch aluminum wheels with 22/55 all-season tires, offering a nimble and fun driving experience. However, it was loud on highways, and the suspension struggled with speed bumps. Off-road, care was needed to avoid damaging the underside. The Trailblazer averaged 9.0 L/100 km in combined driving, slightly above the official rating.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade came with a 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, making it more powerful than several competitors. The eight-speed automatic transmission featured paddle shifters, and AWD was standard in Canada. The HTRAC AWD system proved capable during a muddy off-road test. The Palisade offered a comfortable ride, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kg and a dedicated Tow Mode. Fuel consumption was 12.6 L/100 km in the city, 9.5 on the highway, and 11.2 combined.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, though small, was highly functional. It could hold items up to 2.5 metres long with the tailgate closed. It comfortably seated four, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat in the RS trim. The rear seat, though roomy, was shaped like a park bench for a flat load floor. Cargo space was 716 litres, expanding to 1,540 litres with the rear seats folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat for additional cargo capacity.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade was spacious, seating seven or eight comfortably. It offered 1,052 mm of legroom in the front, 1,077 mm in the second row, and 798 mm in the third, with a passenger volume of 4,397 litres. The second-row seats slid easily for third-row access, and the third-row seats folded flat. Cargo space was 509 litres behind the third row, 1,297 litres behind the second, and 2,447 litres with all but the front seats folded. A hands-free smart liftgate was standard on all but the base trim. The Palisade featured HVAC vents in all rows and ample cupholders, with a well-organized centre console.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It offered Chevrolet Connected Services, including a Wi-Fi hotspot and Teen Driver technology. The RS trim had an 8-inch display with Spotify, SiriusXM, and an optional 7-speaker Bose audio system. Wireless smartphone charging was available. The system was user-friendly, with physical controls for easy navigation.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade boasted a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and SiriusXM. A 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system was standard on higher trims. The Palisade supported Bluetooth connectivity for two devices and had multiple USB ports for charging. A wireless charger was standard on the top trim. The digital instrument cluster and in-car intercom were standard on higher trims, with a head-up display on the Ultimate Calligraphy. Hyundai's Bluelink system offered remote vehicle management features.

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 the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Hyundai's Smart Sense suite included forward collision avoidance, driver attention warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. Blind-spot and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance were standard. Adaptive cruise control with stop and go was included, with Highway Driving Assist on higher trims. The Palisade featured a digital rearview mirror and safe exit warning, with rear seat occupant alert using an ultrasonic sensor.