2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2023 Nissan Pathfinder

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 sticker 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 Nissan Pathfinder, redesigned for the 2022 model year, carried over into 2023 with minimal changes, except for the new Rock Creek trim level. Its design combined futuristic headlights with more conventional lights and an angular C-pillar, creating a blend of traditional and forward-thinking aesthetics. The interior continued this modern theme with clean lines and a sensible layout, making it both visually appealing and practical. In Canada, the Pathfinder was available in S, SV, Rock Creek, SL, SL Premium, and Platinum trims. The Rock Creek trim offered a rugged take on the Pathfinder, featuring off-road tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and unique styling elements. The SL trim added Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist, while the Platinum trim included second-row captain chairs and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

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 came with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The AWD model also featured a more sophisticated rear suspension design, improving ride and handling. The RS trim rode on 18-inch aluminum wheels with 22/55 all-season tires, contributing to its nimble and fun-to-drive nature. However, the Trailblazer was loud on highways, and its suspension struggled with speed bumps. Fuel consumption averaged 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly higher than the official rating of 8.4 L/100 km with AWD.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. The Rock Creek trim offered a slight power boost, with 295 hp and 270 lb-ft. Power was routed through a nine-speed automatic transmission to standard AWD. The Pathfinder's engine provided ample power for city and highway driving, and the automatic transmission was smooth and quiet. The Rock Creek trim featured a taller suspension with off-road shocks, enhancing its off-road capability. The Pathfinder's rotary drive mode dial offered various modes, including Eco, Sport, and All-Terrain, while the Rock Creek trim added a downhill crawl assist button. The Pathfinder's towing capacity was 1,587 kilograms, with the Rock Creek capable of towing up to 2,720 kilograms.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite its small size, offered impressive functionality. It could hold items up to 2.5 metres long with the tailgate closed. The Trailblazer RS featured a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat, providing a comfortable driving position. The rear seat, though roomy, had flat cushions, prioritizing a flat load floor when folded. The trunk offered 716 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,540 litres with the rear seats folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, accommodating longer items like surfboards.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder provided up to 2,279 litres of cargo space with the second and third rows folded flat. With the second row in use, it offered 1,274 litres, and with all seats upright, 470 litres. The first two rows provided ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for shorter trips. The Platinum trim's second-row captain's chairs featured a removable centre console. The Pathfinder boasted 12 cupholders and four bottle holders, along with numerous cubbies and compartments. The Rock Creek's roof racks could hold up to 100 kilograms, though snow removal could be challenging.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured a comprehensive infotainment system with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen display. Standard features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wireless Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with appealing graphics and a smartphone-style interface. Our test car had the larger touchscreen, access to Spotify and SiriusXM, and an optional 7-speaker Bose audio system. Wireless smartphone charging was available, and the Trailblazer offered a keyless entry keypad system and a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with larger 9-inch screens on higher trims. While some found the graphics dated, the system was easy to use, with logical menu layouts and real buttons and dials. Standard features included Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The SV trim added a third-row USB port, while the SL trim included wireless device charging. Though not cutting-edge, the Pathfinder's tech kept devices charged and connected.

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

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including forward and reverse automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and ProPilot Assist. The SV trim added front parking sensors, while the SL trim included traffic-sign recognition. The Pathfinder was rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, though the NHTSA had not completed a full suite of crash tests on the 2023 model.