2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a longer version of the standard two-row Grand Cherokee, extending 29 centimetres to accommodate third-row seating. Its wheelbase stretched an additional 12.7 cm, providing more legroom in the second row and wider rear doors. The design seamlessly integrated the extra length, making the standard Grand Cherokee appear truncated. Jeep's decision to release the L model first, as an all-new 2021 model, set a high standard for elegance and recognizability. The vehicle retained classic Jeep features like the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, while modernizing with slimmer lighting and improved paint finish. The interior was luxurious, with high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather, offering a Mercedes-like quality without shared parts. The attention to detail, even in all-black interiors, ensured a comfortable and visually stimulating experience.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer resembled a smaller version of the Chevrolet Blazer, striking a balance between SUV toughness and upscale appearance. It featured intricate lighting elements and dark chrome trim, enhancing its appeal in its price range. The Activ and RS models offered unique styling, with the Activ focusing on ruggedness and the RS on a sportier look. The RS and Activ models also came with contrasting roofs, adding a distinctive touch. The interior of the Trailblazer, while not screaming "outdoor adventure," had design elements like grab handles and a creased dashboard that made it stand out. The mix of copper-toned and sparkly black plastic trim added personality to the otherwise black interior, though the flat rear seat cushions were less ideal for long trips.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine options: a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 and a 5.7-litre V8, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, the vehicle came standard with four-wheel drive, offering three different systems, while rear-wheel drive was not available. The V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, felt underpowered for the vehicle's weight, especially when fully loaded. The engine noise was noticeable, and the transmission's early upshifts didn't help. The V8, with 357 hp and 390 lb-ft, provided a more satisfying performance. Fuel efficiency for the V6 was rated at 13.0 L/100 km city, 9.4 highway, and 11.3 combined, while the V8 was less efficient. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was a highlight, offering a stellar ride with optional air suspension and five ride height settings. The vehicle's driving modes were similar to Land Rover's, adjusting various systems based on terrain.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer shared its platform and powertrains with the Buick Encore GX. It came with a standard 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, with an optional 1.3-litre turbo-three offering 155 hp and 174 lb-ft. The 1.2-litre engine was available only with front-wheel drive, while the 1.3-litre could be paired with either FWD or AWD. The Trailblazer Activ test car had AWD, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and the 1.3-litre engine. The vehicle's throttle response was better than the Encore GX, though the transmission had some rough shifts. The Activ model's dampers were tuned for gravel roads but performed well on pavement. The Trailblazer had a selectable AWD system, requiring manual engagement, unlike competitors' automatic systems. It offered Normal, Sport, and Snow drive modes, though the differences were subtle.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its simplicity and sleek graphics. Physical switches for climate and stereo controls were easy to use, with a satisfying tactile feel. The Laredo and Altitude trims had an 8.4-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered a 10.1-inch screen. The Grand Cherokee L provided ample space in all rows, with captain's chairs standard in the second row. A panoramic roof and large windows enhanced the cabin experience, though the air vents were less effective.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite being one of the smallest SUVs, offered decent utility. It was wider and taller than the original S-10 Blazer, with a longer wheelbase for better passenger space. The Trailblazer matched the Kia Seltos in headroom and offered more rear legroom than the Hyundai Kona and Buick Encore GX. Cargo space was 716 litres with the rear seats up and 1,540 litres with them folded. The Trailblazer's interior had smart storage solutions, though the cargo capacity was limited for larger loads.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered premium features on upper trims, including massage modes for front seats, a head-up display, night vision, and a 360-degree camera system. The Active Driving Assist system provided excellent highway steering. The Uconnect system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and other driver aids standard. The Summit trims included additional features like automatic parking and traffic sign recognition.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. An 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a Bose audio system were optional. The Trailblazer's tech offerings were adequate for most buyers, with logical menus and easy-to-read graphics. The combination of a smaller instrument cluster screen and analog gauges was effective, with smart design touches aiding comprehension.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. It came standard with driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer was named a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, receiving top scores in crash tests and high marks for front-crash prevention tech. The NHTSA gave it a five-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane keep assist, with optional features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.