2022 Subaru Forester vs 2023 Chevrolet Blazer

The 2022 Subaru Forester presented a range of trim levels, from the base model to the Touring, with prices starting at $25,195 and reaching $35,295. All-wheel drive was standard across the lineup, enhancing its appeal as a practical compact SUV. The Forester Wilderness, tested in the rugged terrains of Bend, Oregon, featured a distinctive look with its suspension lift, protective cladding, and matte-black hood decal. Inside, the Forester emphasized functionality with a straightforward design, combining hard plastics and soft surfaces. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly, though the presence of three display screens was less than ideal.

In contrast, the 2023 Chevrolet Blazer adopted a sleek, road-car-inspired design with a low roofline and a prominent grille. The Blazer RS test vehicle stood out with its blackout trim, Red Hot paint, and 21-inch wheels. For 2023, the Blazer received subtle styling updates, including new taillights and grille designs, along with additional color options. Inside, the Blazer's sporty aesthetic was reminiscent of the Camaro, with an upright dashboard and large air vents. The RS model featured blue trim and a two-tone upholstery scheme, showcasing high material quality.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. While it lacked a turbocharger, the Forester's CVT and all-wheel drive system provided a 25% increase in initial torque for the Wilderness model, doubling its towing capacity to 3,000 pounds. The Forester averaged 25.9 mpg during testing, slightly below the EPA's 26 mpg estimate. Its long-travel suspension and dual-function X-Mode system excelled in off-road conditions, making it a compelling choice for adventurous drivers.

The 2023 Chevrolet Blazer offered two powertrain options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 228 horsepower and a 3.6-liter V6 with 308 horsepower. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive optional. The V6-powered Blazer RS impressed with its quick acceleration and sporty exhaust note, though its handling was affected by its weight and top-heavy design. The Blazer's 4,500-pound towing capacity was competitive for its class, but its AWD system was more suited for pavement than off-road adventures.

The 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit, water-resistant StarTex upholstery, and all-weather floor mats. Its upgraded roof rails supported a three-person roof tent, enhancing its outdoor appeal. The Forester offered ample comfort and visibility, with rear air vents and quick-charge ports for passengers. Cargo space measured 28.9 cubic feet without the sunroof and 74.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, making it one of the roomiest compact SUVs.

The 2023 Chevrolet Blazer, a two-row, five-seat vehicle, provided nearly identical front-seat headroom to its rivals, though rear-seat headroom was slightly below average. Cargo space was 30.5 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet with them folded, trailing behind competitors like the Honda Passport. Despite this, the Blazer felt spacious and easy to maneuver, with functional interior details like USB ports and adjustable air vents.

The 2022 Subaru Forester featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Starlink connected services. Higher trims offered an 8-inch screen with navigation and a Harman Kardon sound system. The Wilderness trim included a 180-degree forward-view camera, and the PIN Code Access feature allowed keyless entry for outdoor activities.

The 2023 Chevrolet Blazer received tech upgrades, including a standard 10.2-inch touchscreen and wireless device charging. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM radio. RS and Premier trims included built-in navigation and a Bose audio system. The infotainment system was intuitive, though a dedicated button for the optional 360-degree camera would have been beneficial.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, with improved camera-based technology and a new Automatic Emergency Steering system. It included features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester earned a 5-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA and was expected to retain its IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" rating.

The 2023 Chevrolet Blazer expanded its safety features, with the standard Chevy Safety Assist Package offering automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and more. Adaptive cruise control became available on lower trims, and additional options included blind spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system. The Blazer received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and high ratings from the IIHS, though it lacked GM's advanced Super Cruise system.