2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2020 Volvo XC90

The 2020 Volvo XC90 was a testament to the pinnacle of Volvo's design evolution, showcasing a blend of elegance and robustness in a large SUV format. Its exterior featured distinctive elements like the blacked-out honeycomb grille, "Thor's hammer" LED headlights, and a sleek arching shoulder crease, all contributing to its sophisticated appearance. The interior was equally impressive, with options for luxurious materials such as matte wood trim and wool fabric seats, and a focus on comfort with power-adjustable and massage-capable seats. The XC90's design was a harmonious blend of simplicity and quality, setting a high standard for luxury SUVs.

In contrast, the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer adopted a more rugged and youthful aesthetic, drawing inspiration from larger SUVs like the Blazer. Its design included features like dark gray plastic trim, unique 17-inch aluminum wheels, and a two-tone paint scheme, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a sporty look. The interior, while stylish with its white-stitched charcoal-colored cloth accents, was marred by the presence of hard shiny plastics, which detracted from the overall quality feel. Despite this, the Trailblazer's design was likable and well-suited for its target market.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The T5 model produced 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, which was deemed insufficient for the vehicle's size. The T6, with a supercharger added, delivered 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, providing a more suitable performance for the SUV. The Polestar tune further enhanced the T6 to 330 hp and 325 lb-ft, though it still lacked the linear acceleration expected in this class. The T8 plug-in hybrid variant offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft, but its added weight negated the performance benefits. Fuel economy was a concern, with the T6 averaging 20 mpg over 800 miles, falling short of competitors. The XC90 prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a focus on a serene driving experience.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured a standard turbocharged 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine in front-wheel-drive models, producing 137 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. More powerful versions came with a 1.3-liter 3-cylinder engine, offering 155 hp and 174 lb-ft. The AWD models replaced the CVT with a 9-speed automatic transmission, providing smoother gear changes. While not a powerhouse, the Trailblazer's performance was adequate for most driving conditions, though it struggled on steep inclines. Fuel economy was slightly below the EPA rating, averaging 26.6 mpg. The Trailblazer's driving dynamics included quirks like disconnected steering feel and suspension impact harshness, making it less refined than some competitors.

The 2020 Volvo XC90's interior was a highlight, with its Sensus infotainment system offering improved responsiveness and a well-organized layout. The SUV accommodated seven passengers, with an optional integrated booster cushion for children, a unique feature in the market. The first and second rows provided ample legroom and comfort, while the third row was best suited for small children. Cargo space was generous, with up to 85.7 cubic feet available. The XC90's cabin was a testament to Volvo's commitment to quality and functionality.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer's interior offered a mix of comfort and practicality, though it fell short in some areas. The leatherette seats were comfortable, but the climate control system struggled to maintain a cool cabin. The rear seats, while spacious, were uncomfortable due to a flat cushion and reclined backrest. Cargo space was competitive, with 54.4 cubic feet available when the rear seats were folded. The Trailblazer's interior was functional but lacked the refinement of some rivals.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 came equipped with Volvo Pilot Assist, a semi-automated driving system that combined adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The R-Design trim featured a Bowers & Wilkins stereo with 19 speakers and 1,400 watts of power, offering an exceptional audio experience. The infotainment system, with its portrait-oriented touchscreen, was user-friendly, though onboard apps were slow to load. The digital instrument panel offered limited customization compared to competitors.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered two infotainment systems, with the upgraded version featuring an 8-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Bose premium sound system. The interface was intuitive, with physical controls enhancing user experience. The Trailblazer's technology package was well-suited for its target market, providing a good balance of features and usability.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 boasted top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, though its headlight performance prevented it from achieving the highest designation. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. Volvo's commitment to safety was evident in its use of high-strength materials and innovative systems like whiplash protection.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer was equipped with Chevy Safety Assist, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision alert, lane-keeping assist, and a rear-seat reminder system. Optional features included blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. While the Trailblazer's safety tech was extensive, its performance was inconsistent, with some systems overreacting or failing to engage.