2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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 was designed to impress, with a low shoulder height and a short, yet not stubby, tail. It offered various customization options, including different grille designs and packages like the Redline and Midnight/Sport editions. However, the interior was a letdown, with low-quality materials and a lack of support in the seats, which did not match the vehicle's price point. The Blazer's interior felt dated compared to competitors, lacking the refinement and quality expected in its class.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained its traditional Jeep design while offering a modern twist. The two-row version of the Grand Cherokee was a more compact and sportier option compared to its three-row sibling. It featured a range of trims, from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, each offering a unique experience. The Grand Cherokee's design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, with a forward-leaning grille and headlights. Inside, the Grand Cherokee provided a sense of quality and comfort, with options for premium leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior was well-designed, offering good visibility and a sense of luxury, especially in higher trims.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer offered three engine options, with the 3.6-liter V6 being the most preferred for its 308 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. This engine was available on the RS trim, which also featured a sport-tuned suspension and a mechanical torque-vectoring rear axle. The Blazer's handling was impressive, with good grip and steering feel, but the transmission calibration had issues, particularly in Sport mode. The EPA fuel economy for the AWD V6 was average, at 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee came with either a V6 or a V8 engine, with the V6 producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The V8, available on higher trims, offered 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, increasing the towing capacity to 7,200 pounds. The Grand Cherokee featured three different 4WD systems, with the Quadra-Drive II being the most capable for off-roading. The Trailhawk trim was particularly impressive off-road, with features like an electronic locking rear differential and a Quadra-Lift air suspension. The Grand Cherokee's ride quality was excellent, and it felt more nimble and athletic compared to its larger sibling. The V6 was the preferred engine for its efficiency and good acceleration.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer, as a two-row SUV, comfortably seated four passengers. The low roof height did not compromise interior space, and the seats were mounted lower for easy entry and exit. However, visibility was a concern due to poor sightlines, though large side-view mirrors and optional rear-view camera technology helped mitigate this issue. The Blazer offered 64 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and it could tow up to 4,500 pounds with the right configuration. The controls were user-friendly, and the infotainment system was fast and easy to use.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided a comfortable experience for both the driver and passengers, with higher trims offering heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and front seat massagers. Visibility was improved, and the panoramic sunroof added an airy feel to the cabin. Rear-seat room was tight for taller passengers, but the Grand Cherokee L offered more space. The two-row Grand Cherokee had 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 70.8 cubic feet with the seats folded.

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 features like navigation, 4G WiFi, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Driver assists were standard on most trims, but the Blazer lacked semi-automated functions for traffic.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, with features like a head-up display, Night Vision system, and multiple interior touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Most trims came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch screen available as an upgrade. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration were standard. The Grand Cherokee also offered a front passenger interactive display, providing entertainment options for the front-seat occupant.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with top "Good" ratings from the IIHS in all crash tests. However, it received "Marginal" and "Poor" ratings for headlights. A driver's knee airbag was standard, but the Blazer lacked rear emergency braking and an inboard side airbag.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with an impressive collection of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist. The Grand Cherokee's structure was composed of aluminum and high-strength steel, improving crash protection. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to be available in 2022, allowing for semi-autonomous driving on approved roads.