2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a fresh addition to the Jeep lineup, distinct from the existing Grand Cherokee. It was an extended-length version of the upcoming 2022 Grand Cherokee, featuring a third-row seat and increased cargo space. Despite the potential confusion of its release timing, the Grand Cherokee L was expected to sell well due to its appealing design, reminiscent of the more expensive Wagoneer models. The SUV's styling was unmistakably Jeep, with its signature seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches. Available in multiple trims, from Laredo to Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee L offered a range of prices and features, though some interior materials did not quite match the high price tag. The Summit trim, in particular, boasted luxurious leather and wood finishes, along with advanced technology, marking a significant improvement over previous models.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, while compact, was praised for its stylish design and practical features. Chevrolet nailed the proportions and details, making even the base L trim visually appealing. The Trailblazer was available in five trims, with prices ranging from $20,195 to $26,695, plus a destination charge. AWD was an option for most trims, enhancing the driving experience with a larger engine and better transmission. Our RS trim test vehicle, equipped with AWD, was priced at $33,000, which seemed steep given the interior's hard plastic materials. Despite this, the Trailblazer's interior had a sense of style, and its compact size made it easy to maneuver and park.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered both RWD and 4WD options, with a maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds and an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined. An optional 5.7-liter V8 engine, available only with certain trims and 4WD, delivered 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, increasing towing capacity to 7,200 pounds but reducing fuel economy to 17 mpg combined. Our test vehicle featured the V6 engine and 4WD, providing brisk acceleration but falling short on fuel efficiency, averaging 17.8 mpg. The Grand Cherokee L's Quadra-Lift adaptive air suspension and various driving modes, including Sport and Selec-Terrain off-road modes, enhanced its capability on different terrains. The SUV's structure and suspension contributed to a smooth ride and capable handling, making it suitable for both off-road adventures and highway cruising.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines: a standard 1.2-liter engine with 137 horsepower and a more powerful 1.3-liter engine with 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque. The latter, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission in AWD models, provided a more engaging driving experience. The Trailblazer's light weight, turbocharged torque, and 18-inch wheels made it nimble and fun to drive, especially in RS trim. However, the SUV was loud on highways, and its suspension struggled with speed bumps. Off-road capability was limited, even in the Activ trim with off-road suspension and sport-terrain tires. Despite its small engine, the Trailblazer averaged 26.1 mpg in combined driving, slightly below the EPA's 28 mpg estimate.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered comfort and convenience, especially in Summit trim, with features like heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a four-zone climate control system. However, the dashboard vents were small, making it challenging to cool the cabin quickly. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and comfort, with manual sunshades for added convenience. The third row was surprisingly comfortable, with large windows for a good view. Cargo space was competitive, with 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.9 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 84.6 cubic feet.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, though compact, was highly functional. It could accommodate four people comfortably, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat in RS trim. The rear seat, while roomy, was flat and less comfortable, likely to ensure a flat load floor when folded. The Trailblazer's cargo space was impressive for its size, offering 25.3 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 54.4 cubic feet with them folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing the SUV to carry long items like surfboards.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, available with 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreens. Our test vehicle had the larger screen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa compatibility, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The system included a natural voice-recognition feature and an optional 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, which delivered excellent sound quality. Additional tech features included a digital instrumentation panel, a digital rearview mirror, and a Fam Cam rear-seat monitoring system.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Chevrolet Connected Services. Our test vehicle had the larger screen, with Alexa Built-in, Spotify, SiriusXM, and a 7-speaker Bose audio system. The system was user-friendly, with physical controls for easy navigation. The Trailblazer also offered remote engine starting and a keyless entry keypad system.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, a hands-on driving-assistance system combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. While effective, the system's steering assist felt artificial. The SUV also featured Intersection Collision Assist, which could detect threats at intersections and apply brakes if necessary. Additional safety features included Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of review.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder, and Teen Driver technology. Chevy Safety Assist was standard, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high-beam headlights. Optional features included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer received top crash-test ratings from both NHTSA and IIHS.