2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2023 Honda CR-V

The 2023 Honda CR-V adopted a more refined and slightly aggressive appearance with its blunt nose, grille, and elongated wheelbase. While it lacked the distinct personality of its predecessor, the conservative styling was expected to age gracefully. The CR-V EX-L featured 18-inch alloy wheels and dark-tinted rear privacy glass, enhancing its sophisticated look. Inside, the leather-wrapped seats, steering wheel, and shift knob elevated the interior's quality, complemented by a dashboard design inspired by the latest Civic. The CR-V EX-L boasted a larger touchscreen infotainment system, power-adjustable front passenger seat, and front and rear parking sensors, adding to its appeal.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer resembled a smaller version of the Chevrolet Blazer, exuding a balanced SUV toughness without appearing exaggerated. Intricate headlight and taillight elements, along with dark chrome trim, lent the Trailblazer an upscale appearance. The Activ and RS models offered unique styling cues, with the Activ featuring a rugged front fascia and roof rails, while the RS sported blacked-out trim and dual exhaust outlets. The contrasting roofs in red, black, or white added a distinctive touch, and the interior, with its leather-wrapped steering wheel and leatherette upholstery, provided a mix of colours and textures that added personality to the cabin.

The 2023 Honda CR-V was powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. Despite its power, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) was a drawback, especially during hard acceleration, as it produced a droning noise. However, the CR-V excelled in ride and handling, with a well-tuned suspension, steering, and brakes. It offered a smooth and engaging driving experience, handling various road conditions with ease. The CR-V achieved impressive fuel economy, averaging 8.1 L/100 km on a mountainous route.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer shared its platform with the Buick Encore GX and offered two engine options: a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, and an optional 1.3-litre turbo-three with 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque. The 1.2-litre engine was paired with a CVT and FWD, while the 1.3-litre engine could be paired with either FWD or AWD, the latter featuring a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Trailblazer Activ, with its AWD and 1.3-litre engine, provided a decent amount of power and a pleasing exhaust note. The ride quality was generally good, although some bouncing was noted over road imperfections. The Trailblazer's selectable AWD system required manual engagement, unlike competitors' automatic systems.

The 2023 Honda CR-V was touted as the roomiest yet, though the driver's seat felt more car-like than SUV-like. The second row offered ample space, resembling a midsize model, with high seating positions and generous legroom. The CR-V provided numerous storage options, including a large bin under the centre armrest and storage trays. The cargo area offered 1,113 litres of space, expandable to 2,166 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite being one of the smallest SUVs, offered decent utility. It matched rivals in headroom and provided more rear legroom than the Buick Encore GX. The Trailblazer's cargo space was 716 litres with the rear seats up and 1,540 litres with them folded. While respectable, it was slightly behind competitors like the Kia Seltos. The Trailblazer's interior featured smart storage solutions, including a covered storage bin and a deep tray, though the cargo capacity was limited for larger loads.

The 2023 Honda CR-V featured a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The EX-L trim added a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, SiriusXM, and an upgraded sound system. While the tech was improved, it didn't surpass competitors, and the EX-L's price tag felt steep for the features offered.

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 was adequate for most buyers, with a well-sized touchscreen and logical menus. The combination of a smaller instrument cluster screen and analog gauges effectively conveyed information.

The 2023 Honda CR-V featured the Honda Sensing suite, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. New features included a seatbelt reminder, driver monitoring system, and traffic sign recognition. The CR-V was expected to excel in safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered standard safety features like forward collision warning and lane keep assist. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.