2021 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer was a striking vehicle, often mistaken for a high-end model like the Lamborghini Urus due to its aggressive styling. Its exterior design featured a wedgy profile, slim-cut windows, and a bold front end with thin lights and a tall, black grille. The Blazer's design was a 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 the price point, especially when compared to competitors offering more luxurious interiors at similar prices.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX presented a more traditional and somewhat dated appearance, despite the new Black Line Special Edition's attempt to modernize its look by removing chrome and opting for a blacked-out aesthetic. The GX's design was reminiscent of its predecessors, with only minor updates to keep it current. Inside, the GX offered high-quality materials and a quiet cabin, maintaining Lexus's reputation for refinement. However, the overall design felt old, and the vehicle's exterior quickly showed dirt, detracting from its appeal.

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

The 2022 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system. Despite its hefty curb weight of 5,126 pounds, the GX offered a satisfying engine note and a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. The GX's fuel economy was less impressive, with an EPA estimate of 16 mpg combined. The Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System helped improve ride quality, but the steering was slow and heavy, making parking a challenge.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer provided comfortable seating for four, with a low roof height that did not compromise interior space. Visibility was a concern due to poor sightlines, but large side-view mirrors and optional camera systems helped mitigate this issue. The Blazer offered 64 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and a towing capacity of 4,500 pounds with the right configuration. The interior featured simple controls and convenient features like a hands-free power tailgate and automatic climate control.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position and clear visibility, with comfortable seats and ample interior padding. However, the narrow rear door openings made accessing the back seats difficult, and the third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. The GX's tailgate swung open to the side, complicating loading in tight spaces. Cargo capacity was limited to 64.7 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded, less than some smaller SUVs.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen featuring Chevrolet Infotainment 3, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The RS trim added features like 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, some driver assists were only available on higher trims.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation, with a dual-screen view for simultaneous map and radio display. The GX also offered a CD player and a Lexus app with smartwatch compatibility. However, the placement of stereo controls was awkward, and some advanced driver aids were missing.

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." Standard safety features included a driver's knee airbag and enhanced forward emergency braking on higher trims.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings but came with Lexus Safety System+, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and other safety features. However, it missed some advanced technologies found in competitors, which could be a drawback for some buyers.