2022 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while moving towards the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90, which debuted as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90 showcased a sleek and athletic profile, with pronounced wheel arches and a distinctive "Thor's Hammer" LED headlight design. Inside, the XC90 offered a "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" aesthetic, featuring natural wood and metal trim, with options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer, available in LT, True North, Premier, and RS trims, offered a sporty design inspired by the Camaro. The RS trim, in particular, featured a sophisticated twin-clutch AWD system for improved traction. The Blazer's exterior design included a unique black trim on the rear bumper, while the interior echoed Camaro elements with an 8-inch touchscreen and innovative climate controls. Despite the presence of hard plastics, the Blazer RS's interior was enhanced by red accents matching the exterior paint, adding a touch of sophistication.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid combining gasoline and electric power for a total of 455 hp. All models featured AWD and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90's driving experience was characterized by minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, especially in the Recharge model, which provided spirited acceleration and an EV range of up to 58 kilometres.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer LT came with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine generating 228 horsepower, while higher trims offered a 3.6-litre V6 with 308 hp. The RS trim featured a dual-clutch AWD system, enhancing its sporty feel. The Blazer RS delivered satisfying acceleration, though the V6 engine was noted for its loudness. The SUV's handling was firm and sporty, but the suspension and transmission performance were less impressive on winding roads. The Blazer RS averaged 11.5 L/100 km in combined driving, slightly above its official rating.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six- or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults found it lacking in legroom. The XC90 provided up to 1,855 litres of cargo space with the second and third rows folded and could tow up to 2,250 kilograms. The interior featured ample storage, a spacious cabin, and effective climate control, making it a comfortable choice for family tours.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer RS featured black leather upholstery with red accents, providing a sporty appearance. The front seats offered power adjustments and optional ventilation, though they lacked thigh support. The Blazer's back seat was spacious and adjustable, enhancing cargo or passenger space as needed. Storage options were plentiful, and the power rear liftgate, though sometimes finicky, revealed a cargo area of 864 litres, expandable to 1,818 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen and smartphone-like gestures. While the system was intuitive, it occasionally lagged, performing better with Apple CarPlay. The XC90 included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a head-up display, and a Harman-Kardon audio system on higher trims. USB ports were available for both front and rear passengers.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer RS offered a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen and physical controls. The dual-zone climate control and rear air vents ensured comfort, while USB ports and a power outlet provided connectivity. The Blazer's technology package included a power-adjustable steering wheel and heated front seats, enhancing comfort in various weather conditions.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist, which provided semi-autonomous driving assistance. The XC90 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, underscoring its commitment to safety.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came standard with the Chevy Safety Assist suite, offering forward-collision alert, lane-keep assist, and more. Additional safety features included a rear-seat reminder, Teen Driver technology, and an available Safety Alert Seat. While the Blazer's safety systems were effective, its headlights did not earn high ratings from the IIHS.