2022 Kia Sportage vs 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer

The 2022 Kia Sportage presented a mixed bag in terms of design. While Kia's signature tiger-nose grille was a hit on models like the Stinger and Sorento, it seemed out of place on the Sportage, resembling a Halloween party mustache. Despite this, the Sportage excelled in other design aspects, boasting a stylish four-dot running light signature reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and a Volkswagen-like symmetry in its rear design. The SX trim's 19-inch alloy wheels added to its well-proportioned and planted stance. Inside, the Sportage embraced a Germanic design with a black dashboard, polished metallic accents, and straightforward instrumentation. The interior was user-friendly, with buttons and knobs for easy control of the stereo, cabin temperature, and infotainment system, contributing to an upscale feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was praised for its appealing styling and well-executed proportions. The option for a contrasting roof colour in black, white, or red added to its visual appeal. The Trailblazer offered four trim levels in Canada: LS, LT, Activ, and RS, with prices ranging from $25,998 to $30,298, plus a $1,900 destination charge. The RS trim, tested here, featured a sporty look with 18-inch aluminum wheels and a price tag that could reach $37,653 with options. However, the interior was criticized for its hard plastic materials, though it maintained a sense of style. Despite its compact size, the Trailblazer was functional, with a roomy interior and a flat-folding front passenger seat for added cargo versatility.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options. Most models came with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, providing a competitive but unremarkable performance. The Sportage SX, however, featured a more robust 237 hp engine with 260 lb-ft of torque, making it a compelling choice for those living at higher elevations. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the Dynamax all-wheel-drive system was standard on all but the base LX FWD model. The Sportage SX delivered quick acceleration, with maximum torque available from 1,450 to 3,500 rpm, offering a spirited driving experience. The suspension setup, featuring MacPherson struts in the front and an independent multi-link rear suspension, provided a smooth and compliant ride, though some body roll and lateral rocking were noted. The Sportage SX was fun to drive, though not as refined as competitors like the Mazda CX-5 Turbo.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, on the other hand, was equipped with a turbocharged three-cylinder engine, offering 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque. The larger 1.3-litre engine was standard in Canada, providing a sprightly feel with torque arriving at 1,600 rpm. The Trailblazer's AWD models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, enhancing ride and handling. The RS trim rode on 18-inch wheels with 22/55 all-season tires, contributing to its nimble and zippy character. The Trailblazer was fun to drive in urban settings and on winding roads, with a Sport mode adding to its sporty feel. However, it was loud on highways, and the suspension struggled with speed bumps and off-road terrain. The Trailblazer's fuel efficiency was slightly below expectations, averaging 9.0 L/100 km in combined driving with AWD.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, despite its compact size, offered a surprisingly roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim provided comfort with perforated leather upholstery, ten-way power adjustment for the driver's seat, and eight-way power adjustment for the front passenger seat. Heated and ventilated front seats, along with a heated steering wheel, added to the comfort. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and a USB charging port, with heated rear seats available on the SX trim. The Sportage's cargo space was limited, with 1,703 litres available with the rear seats folded, falling short of competitors like the Honda CR-V. The smart liftgate technology was a convenient feature, allowing hands-free access to the cargo area.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, though small, excelled in functionality. It offered ample room for four passengers, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat in the RS trim. The rear seat provided good legroom but was less comfortable due to its flat design, likely to ensure a flat load floor when folded. The Trailblazer's cargo space was practical, with 716 litres available in the trunk and 1,540 litres with the rear seats folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, accommodating longer items like surfboards.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with knobs for volume and tuning, and logical onscreen menus. However, the UVO Intelligence system was considered outdated, lacking a Wi-Fi hotspot and offering wired smartphone mirroring.

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 Android Auto, and Chevrolet Connected Services with a Wi-Fi hotspot. The RS trim tested here had an 8-inch screen, access to Spotify and SiriusXM, and an optional 7-speaker Bose audio system. The system was intuitive, with appealing graphics and a useful voice recognition system. Additional features included remote engine starting and a keyless entry keypad system.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance on the EX and SX trims. Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were also available. The SX trim added adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX earning an Acceptable headlight rating for an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags and a rear-seat reminder system. Chevy Safety Assist was standard, providing forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high-beam headlights. Optional features included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer earned top crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.