Chevrolet Trailblazer vs Lexus TX

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer continued to build on its sporty theme with a minor styling refresh that accentuated its aggressive design. The top accent lights were made thinner, giving it a more focused look, while the reshaped grille suggested a need for more air intake. The lower headlights were smaller and set deeper, contributing to a more athletic and serious appearance. Inside, the Trailblazer received a modern makeover with a new digital instrument panel and an 11-inch infotainment touchscreen, although the digital panel didn't fully occupy its enclosure, giving it a slightly downmarket feel. The materials used were decent, with padded armrests and fabric inserts in the door panels adding a touch of warmth to the interior.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander but distinguished itself as a luxury SUV with upscale looks and toned-down styling. The TX 350 Executive package featured striking 22-inch wheels that enhanced its presence. The interior boasted premium semi-aniline leather upholstery and a Peppercorn interior, though it felt dark even with a panoramic sunroof. The TX 350's interior was luxurious enough for a Lexus badge, with heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel as standard. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, making it a more practical choice than previous Lexus models.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered two powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT that powered the front wheels. The Activ-trim test vehicle featured a more powerful 1.3-litre engine with 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Despite its sporty appearance, the Trailblazer's performance was average, with a zero to 100 km/h time exceeding nine seconds. It handled confidently but didn't encourage spirited driving, focusing more on comfort with a smooth ride and muted road noise.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in roughly eight seconds, feeling quicker due to its torque. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, though testing showed an average of 13.8 L/100 km. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm suspension providing a comfortable ride and accurate steering. The interior remained quiet on the highway, and the brake pedal, though soft, was easy to modulate.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered ample space up front, with good visibility and a wireless charging pad for convenience. The front seats were firmly padded, and heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard on most trims. The rear seats provided plenty of legroom and headroom for passengers, making it suitable for transporting adults or rear-facing infant seats. Cargo space was generous, with 716 litres available behind the rear seats, and a hands-free power liftgate added convenience.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 featured premium materials and standard heated and ventilated front seats, with optional captain's chairs in the Executive package. The second-row seat was less welcoming due to its flat cushion, but the third-row seat was habitable for adults, offering leg support and a good view. Cargo space measured 572 litres behind the third-row seat, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third-row seats folded and 2,746 litres with the second-row seats down, providing ample room for road trips.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured an 11-inch infotainment touchscreen standard on all trims, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system's response was slightly delayed, and a native navigation system was not offered. The base audio system performed well, with an optional Bose upgrade available for audiophiles. Overall, the Trailblazer's technology was user-friendly but average for its class.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a Drive Connect subscription offering cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX also featured a 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system, providing impressive sound quality. However, the head-up display's unmarked steering wheel controls and visibility issues with polarized sunglasses were drawbacks.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer received top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, with standard features like frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The optional Confidence package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control was available on certain trims, and all features functioned reliably during testing.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Proactive Drive Assist offered additional braking and steering assistance, though it wasn't always transparent. The TX also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and optional parking sensors and traffic jam assist. The safety systems were generally smooth and effective, though the TX slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.