2021 Lexus RX vs 2021 Chevrolet Blazer

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer was a striking vehicle that often drew comparisons to high-end models like the Lamborghini Urus. Its aggressive styling, with a wedgy profile, slim-cut windows, and sawblade 20-inch wheels, made it stand out. The Blazer's exterior design was a bold departure from Chevy's typically utilitarian SUVs, borrowing elements from the Camaro to create a more exciting and memorable look. However, the interior did not match the exterior's flair, with a low-rent feel and materials that seemed below par for its price range. The cabin was predominantly dark, with unsupportive seats and an undersized central screen, which detracted from the overall experience.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus RX showcased a modern design aesthetic with its large grille, angular headlamps, and floating roof. The interior was well-appointed, featuring sumptuous seating and perforated leather upholstery. Lexus offered the RX in five variants, each catering to different preferences, from the base RX to the performance-focused RX F Sport and the extended RXL models. While the center console design was somewhat dated, the overall interior quality was high, with options for semi-aniline leather upholstery and a range of comfort features. The RX's design was both functional and luxurious, providing a comfortable ride for occupants.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer offered three engine options, with the 3.6-liter V6 on the RS trim being the most preferred, delivering 308 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided a strong and agile driving experience, especially with the sport-tuned suspension and mechanical torque-vectoring rear axle. However, the transmission calibration had issues, with slow responses and a convoluted manual mode. The Blazer's fuel economy was average, with the AWD V6 achieving 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined.

The 2021 Lexus RX, RXL, and RX F-Sport were powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The RX Hybrid models combined this engine with three electric motors, resulting in 308 horsepower. The RX's eight-speed automatic transmission was generally smooth, though it occasionally struggled to find the right gear. The RX's fuel economy was slightly better than the Blazer's, with the FWD RX 350 achieving 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. The RX Hybrid models offered even better efficiency, with up to 31 mpg in the city.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer, as a two-row SUV, comfortably seated four passengers. Its low roof height did not compromise interior space, thanks to seats mounted lower into the floor. However, visibility was a challenge due to poor sightlines, though large side-view mirrors and optional rear-view camera systems helped mitigate this issue. The Blazer offered 64 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 30 cubic feet when raised. It could tow up to 4,500 pounds with the right configuration.

The 2021 Lexus RX provided seating for five in its two-row models and up to seven in the three-row RXL versions. Front and second-row passengers enjoyed ample space, but the third row was tight. The RX's cargo capacity was limited compared to some competitors, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The three-row RXL offered even less cargo space. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Chevrolet Infotainment 3, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The RS trim added wireless phone charging, adaptive cruise control, and a Safety Alert Seat. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with options for navigation, 4G WiFi, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. However, the Blazer lacked semi-automated driving functions.

The 2021 Lexus RX came standard with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch screen, wireless charging, and a premium audio system. The infotainment system, while functional, was not the most intuitive, and the Remote Touch controller took up valuable space. The RX did not offer wireless smartphone integration.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top "Good" ratings from the IIHS, though its headlights were rated "Marginal" and "Poor." It came with standard driver's knee airbags and optional enhanced forward emergency braking.

The 2021 Lexus RX earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation and four out of five stars from the NHTSA. It featured 10 airbags, blind-spot monitoring, and the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 suite, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. However, it lacked advanced hands-off driving technology.