2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis' first SUV, presented a fresh design opportunity, unburdened by a long legacy of design language. It successfully integrated the brand's signature styling cues, such as the massive trapezoidal grille and the "Quad Lamp" LED headlight array, which were also seen in the G80 sedan. The GV80's exterior was marked by elegant proportions, including a long hood and short front overhang, complemented by large wheel arches and aluminum-alloy wheels. The interior was a testament to luxury, featuring a sleek dashboard with minimal controls, a 14.5-inch high-definition display, and authentic materials like real wood and leather, creating a sophisticated and spacious environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was praised for its appealing styling and well-executed proportions. It offered a variety of trims, each with distinct features, and the option of a contrasting roof color added to its visual appeal. Despite its small size, the Trailblazer managed to look attractive even in its base L trim. The interior, however, was criticized for its use of hard plastics, though it maintained a sense of style. The Trailblazer's cabin was functional, with a high seating position for easy entry and exit, and a rear seat designed for practicality rather than comfort.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The V6 models came standard with all-wheel drive, while the four-cylinder models had rear-wheel drive with an AWD option. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The GV80's ride was enhanced by its independent multi-link suspension and, in the case of the 3.5T models, an electronically-controlled suspension with road preview. The 2.5T models offered a self-leveling rear suspension. Fuel economy for the 2.5T was rated at 21 mpg city/25 mpg highway with RWD, while the 3.5T AWD achieved 18 mpg city/23 mpg highway.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured turbocharged three-cylinder engines, with the standard 1.2-liter engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. The more desirable 1.3-liter engine offered 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque. A continuously variable transmission was standard with front-wheel drive, while the all-wheel-drive models received a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Trailblazer's light curb weight and turbocharged torque made it nimble and fun to drive, especially in RS trim with 18-inch wheels. However, the Trailblazer's ride was bouncy, and it struggled with speed bumps and off-road terrain. The test vehicle averaged 26.1 mpg in combined driving, slightly below the EPA rating of 28 mpg.

The 2021 Genesis GV80's interior was a blend of technology and design, featuring a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller with dual control capabilities. The HVAC control panel used capacitive touch buttons with intelligent masking to prevent accidental misuse. The second row was spacious and comfortable, with available power seats and window shades. A third row was standard on certain models, increasing passenger capacity to seven, though it was not available on all trims.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite its small size, offered impressive functionality. It could accommodate four people comfortably, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat in the RS trim. The rear seat, though flat and bench-like, allowed for a flat load floor when folded. The Trailblazer's cargo space was generous, with 25.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54.4 cubic feet with the seats folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, enabling the transport of long items.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sixth-generation Genesis UX 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. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, and the audio system ranged from a 12-speaker setup to a 21-speaker Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround system.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with a comprehensive infotainment system featuring a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included Chevrolet Connected Services, a WiFi hotspot, and Teen Driver technology. The test vehicle had an 8-inch screen with Alexa Built-in, Spotify, SiriusXM, and a 7-speaker Bose audio system. Wireless smartphone charging was available, and the system was praised for its user-friendly interface and physical controls.

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

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags and a rear-seat reminder system. Chevy Safety Assist was standard, providing forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional features included blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer received top crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, and its ADAS performed well during testing.