Chevrolet Trailblazer vs GMC Terrain

The 2022 GMC Terrain underwent a series of updates, including refreshed front styling, new wheel designs, and updated taillights and interior trim. The introduction of the AT4 trim level added a bolder grille, black 17-inch alloy wheels with sport-terrain tires, and AT4 badges, aiming to enhance its off-road appeal. Despite these enhancements, the Terrain's interior materials and design did not fully meet expectations for a vehicle priced over $40,000. The pushbutton transmission controls, while freeing up console space, were not intuitive, and the storage tray was too narrow for a smartphone. The head-up display, projected on a clear plastic panel, was another area where the Terrain fell short of premium expectations.

In contrast, the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer presented a mini version of the Chevrolet Blazer, with a rugged yet upscale appearance. The Activ and RS models offered unique styling elements, with the Activ featuring a faux skid plate and roof rails, while the RS boasted blacked-out trim and dual exhaust outlets. The Trailblazer's interior, though not adventure-themed, included distinctive design touches like grab handles and a creased dashboard. The combination of copper-toned and sparkly black plastic trim added personality to the cabin, although the flat rear seat cushions were less ideal for long journeys.

The 2022 GMC Terrain was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. While the engine's power was adequate, it required learning to ride the torque swell for satisfaction. The nine-speed automatic transmission performed decently, but the absence of the previously available 2.0-litre engine was felt, especially for rapid acceleration needs. The Terrain AT4 offered FWD and AWD modes, with an Off-Road mode and Hill Descent Control. However, torque steer was an issue in FWD mode. The AT4's suspension provided a smooth ride on various surfaces, but off-road capabilities were limited, with the front end scraping on uneven terrain.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer shared its platform with the Buick Encore GX, offering a standard 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. An optional 1.3-litre engine increased output to 155 hp and 174 lb-ft. The Trailblazer Activ test car featured AWD, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and the 1.3-litre engine, providing a decent amount of power and a pleasing exhaust note. The Activ model's dampers, tuned for gravel roads, worked well on pavement, though some bouncing was noted over road imperfections. The Trailblazer's selectable AWD system required manual engagement, unlike competitors' automatic systems.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered a roomy interior for a compact crossover, with power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The AT4 trim featured perforated leather upholstery with caramel-colour contrast stitching, adding an upscale touch. The back seat provided ample legroom and support, while the cargo space measured 838 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,792 litres with the rear seat folded. The Terrain also included various storage solutions, though the storage tray forward of the cupholders was disappointing.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite being one of the smallest SUVs, offered decent utility with generous headroom and mid-pack legroom. The Trailblazer's cargo space measured 716 litres with the second-row seats in place and 1,540 litres with the seats folded. While the cargo capacity was respectable, it was behind some competitors. The Trailblazer's interior included a covered storage bin, a deep tray, and cupholders, accommodating smaller items effectively. However, the relatively flat rear seat cushions were less comfortable for long trips.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems, with the SLT, AT4, and Denali trims featuring an 8-inch touchscreen. Both systems included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and GMC Connected Services. The Infotainment Package II added connected navigation, improved voice recognition, and a Bose audio system. The voice recognition system was highly praised, though the Bose speakers were less impressive. The Tech Package option included a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer's standard infotainment system featured a 7-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. An 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, a Bose audio system, and wireless phone charging were optional. While the optional touchscreen was smaller than some competitors, it was well-sized for the Trailblazer's dashboard, with easy-to-read graphics and logical menus. The combination of a smaller instrument cluster screen and analog gauges effectively conveyed information.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came standard with the GMC Pro Safety Package, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The optional GMC Pro Safety Plus Package added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Terrain received mostly "Good" crash-test scores from the IIHS, though it earned a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not evaluated the 2022 Terrain's crashworthiness.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane keep assist. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The 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 awarded the Trailblazer a five-star overall safety rating.