2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2023 Toyota Sienna

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 visual appeal. Canadian buyers had four models to choose from: LS, LT, Activ, and RS, with prices ranging from $25,998 to $30,298. The RS trim, which we tested, had a starting MSRP of $30,298, but options pushed 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.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sienna aimed to shed its minivan image with a design that resembled a Japanese bullet train. Toyota offered a variety of trims, including the base LE, XLE, sporty XSE, and the luxurious Limited, with a new 25th Anniversary Special Edition trim introduced for 2023. The Sienna's interior was a highlight, featuring high-quality materials and thoughtful design. The Platinum trim, although not available in Canada, showcased beautiful brown leather upholstery and wood-grain accents. The Sienna could seat seven or eight passengers, with the latter configuration available in the LE and XLE trims, offering flexibility for families.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured 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 models, provided a sprightly driving experience. All-wheel-drive models came with a more satisfying nine-speed automatic transmission and a sophisticated rear suspension for improved handling. The Trailblazer's light curb weight and turbocharged torque made it nimble and fun to drive, though it was loud on highways and had a bouncy ride on uneven surfaces. Fuel consumption averaged 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly above the official rating.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, was equipped with a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with electric motors for a total of 245 horsepower. While the power output was less impressive compared to competitors, the Sienna's chassis and steering were commendable, offering a nimble and enjoyable driving experience despite its size. The Sienna featured multiple drive modes, but the normal mode was recommended for the best balance. The hybrid system provided a smooth ride, though acceleration was lacklustre compared to more powerful rivals.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite its compact size, offered impressive functionality. It could accommodate four passengers comfortably, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat in the RS trim. The rear seat, though flat and bench-like, provided ample legroom. Cargo space was generous, with 716 litres available in the trunk and 1,540 litres with the rear seats folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing the Trailblazer to carry items up to 2.5 metres long.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and storage solutions. It featured a large open cubby below the centre console, a long shelf across the dash, and numerous cupholders. The Sienna's three-zone climate control was standard, with four-zone available on higher trims. Measuring 5,175 millimetres in length, the Sienna offered 949 litres of cargo space behind the third row and 2,129 litres with it folded. Total cargo space reached 2,860 litres, though the middle row couldn't be removed or folded into the floor. The second-row captain's chairs were highly functional, with extending ottomans and a long sliding track for added comfort.

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, and Chevrolet Connected Services. Our test car 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 navigation. However, technology options were limited beyond the infotainment system.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna, while lacking the latest tech seen in other Toyota models, offered a reliable infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interface felt dated and required a wired connection for smartphone integration. Despite its quirks, the system was functional, and the 12-speaker JBL audio system provided good sound quality.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder, and Teen Driver technology. Chevy Safety Assist was standard, including 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 Toyota Sienna impressed with its standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. These features were part of the Toyota Safety Sense package, crucial for a family vehicle. The Sienna received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, ensuring peace of mind for families.