2021 Genesis GV80 vs 2021 Chevrolet Blazer

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis' first SUV, was a fresh design that managed to balance innovation with the brand's emerging signature style. It featured a sleek two-box design with a long hood and short front overhang, complemented by a massive trapezoidal grille and distinctive "Quad Lamp" LED headlights. The GV80's exterior was marked by its elegant lines and high-quality paint and trim, while the interior boasted a luxurious and uncluttered dashboard, emphasizing width and spaciousness. Authentic materials like real wood, metal, and leather were used throughout, creating a truly luxurious environment.

In contrast, the 2021 Chevrolet Blazer was designed to make a bold statement with its aggressive styling, reminiscent of a Lamborghini Urus. Its wedgy profile, slim-cut windows, and sawblade 20-inch wheels contributed to its striking appearance. The Blazer's exterior was all about excitement, borrowing elements from the Camaro to create a memorable look. However, the interior fell short of expectations, with a low-rent feel and unsupportive seats. The materials used were not up to par with the Blazer's price point, making it feel dated compared to competitors.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft. The V6 models came standard with all-wheel drive, while the four-cylinder models had rear-wheel drive with optional AWD. The GV80 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and advanced suspension systems, providing a smooth and refined driving experience. The 3.5T model, with its active noise cancellation and electronic limited-slip differential, offered a more powerful and quieter ride. Fuel economy for the GV80 ranged from 18 to 25 mpg, depending on the engine and drivetrain.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer came with three engine choices: a base 2.5-liter inline-four with 193 hp, a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder with 227 hp, and a 3.6-liter V6 with 308 hp. The V6, particularly in the RS trim, provided a sporty driving experience with a sport-tuned suspension and mechanical torque-vectoring rear axle. However, the transmission's slow response and lack of paddle shifters detracted from the overall performance. The Blazer's fuel economy was average, with the AWD V6 achieving 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered a sophisticated interior with advanced technology and ergonomic design. The center console featured a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller with dual control capabilities. The second row was spacious and comfortable, with power-adjustable seats and window shades. A third row was available on select models, increasing passenger capacity to seven. The GV80's interior was designed for luxury and convenience, with features like three-row climate control and power rear-door closure.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer, as a two-row SUV, provided comfortable seating for four adults. The low roof height did not compromise interior space, and the seats were mounted lower for easy entry and exit. However, visibility was limited due to the Blazer's design, though large side-view mirrors and a rear-view mirror camera helped mitigate this issue. The Blazer offered 64 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and its trailering package allowed for towing up to 4,500 pounds. The interior controls were user-friendly, with features like movable rings around air vents for temperature adjustment.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a state-of-the-art infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD screen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and user-configurable displays. Android users could utilize a digital key function, while Genesis Connected Services provided a range of remote and guidance features. The GV80 also included a head-up display, a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster, and a premium Lexicon audio system with 21 speakers.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen running 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 included navigation, 4G WiFi, and an app store for easy downloads and updates. The Blazer also offered driver assists like forward automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist, though it lacked semi-automated functions for traffic.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but Genesis aimed for top safety ratings. The GV80 was equipped with 10 airbags, including a front-center airbag, and a comprehensive suite of safety features like blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision-avoidance assist. It also offered adaptive cruise control with machine learning and highway-driving assist, along with Remote Smart Parking Assist for automated parking.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS, though its headlights were rated "Marginal" and "Poor." The Blazer included a driver's knee airbag and enhanced forward emergency braking, but it lacked rear emergency braking and an inboard side airbag. The Driver Confidence II package added advanced safety features, but these were only available on top trims.