2023 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer

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. The RS trim, which we tested, had a sticker price of $37,653, including destination charges. Despite its stylish interior, the cabin was filled with hard plastics, which detracted from its overall appeal.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Compass embraced a refined design ethos, moving away from the rugged look of its predecessors. It shared design elements with the larger Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, and Wagoneer families, offering a more upscale appearance. The Compass was available in seven trims in Canada, with prices starting just over $35,000 and exceeding $45,000. Our Limited test vehicle, priced at $54,775, featured Granite Crystal paint and 19-inch wheels, giving it a sophisticated look. Inside, the two-tone cabin with caramel accents and digital displays exuded a sense of luxury, though the price seemed steep for a small SUV.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured 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 advanced rear suspension. The RS trim rode on 18-inch aluminum wheels, contributing to its nimble handling. However, the Trailblazer was noisy on highways, and its suspension struggled with speed bumps. Fuel consumption averaged 9.0 L/100 km, slightly above the official rating.

The 2023 Jeep Compass introduced a new turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 200 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. The engine's peak torque was available from 1,750 to 4,250 rpm, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Jeep Active Drive AWD. The Trailhawk trim offered enhanced off-road capabilities with a low-range AWD system and increased ground clearance. Despite its improved powertrain, the Compass's AWD system was slow to engage, and its fuel economy averaged 9.9 L/100 km. The new engine was quieter and smoother, making the 2023 Compass more enjoyable to drive than its predecessors.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, though compact, offered impressive functionality. It could accommodate four adults comfortably, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat in the RS trim. The rear seat provided ample legroom but was less comfortable due to its flat design. Cargo space was generous, with 716 litres available behind the rear seats and 1,540 litres with them folded down. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing the Trailblazer to carry long items.

The 2023 Jeep Compass provided a spacious interior for adults in both rows, despite its narrow design. Standard features included an air filtration system and dual-zone climate control. Higher trims offered leather seats, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. The rear seat was comfortable for adults, with adequate foot and legroom. Cargo space was competitive, with 770 litres behind the rear seats and 1,693 litres with them folded. Some models featured a foot-activated power liftgate for added convenience.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Our test vehicle had the larger screen, with access to Spotify, SiriusXM, and an optional Bose audio system. The system was user-friendly, with physical controls for easy operation. Additional features included remote engine start and a keyless entry keypad.

The 2023 Jeep Compass boasted a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5 technology, supporting Bluetooth for two devices, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Our Limited test vehicle included a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, navigation, and a nine-speaker Alpine audio system. The Alexa Built-in assistant was responsive, and the parking assist system was a useful addition. The surround-view camera enhanced parking ease, though the Compass's size made it manageable without assistance.

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, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional features were blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer earned top crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2023 Jeep Compass added a drowsy driver detection system and rear-seat reminder. Standard ADAS included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The lane-keeping system was sometimes intrusive, and adaptive cruise control lacked smoothness. The Compass had incomplete crash-test ratings, with the IIHS withholding a Top Safety Pick rating pending further testing.