2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe vs 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe made a statement with its distinctive design and sound. It closely resembled a regular Wrangler, with subtle differences like a "4xe" badge and blue accents. The power port at the windshield base was a notable feature. When the battery was charged, the Wrangler 4xe operated silently, except for its pedestrian notification system, which drew attention during a trip to Yosemite National Park. The test vehicle, in Firecracker Red with Rubicon trim, was priced at $66,690, including destination charges. Inside, the Wrangler 4xe maintained its rugged simplicity, with blue stitching and PHEV-specific gauges. The interior was practical, with controls designed for functionality, and it offered more comfort than previous models, though luxury was not its focus.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer impressed with its appealing design, featuring well-proportioned lines and optional contrasting roof colors. It was available in five trims, with prices ranging from $20,195 to $26,695, plus a $1,195 destination charge. The RS trim, tested with AWD, started at $28,195 and reached $33,000 with options. Despite its stylish exterior, the Trailblazer's interior was filled with hard plastics, though it had a sense of style. The cabin was functional, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat and a flat-folding front passenger seat for added cargo versatility. The rear seat offered ample legroom but lacked comfort due to its flat design. Cargo space was generous, with 25.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54.4 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, two electric motors, and a 17-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery. It offered 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, reaching 60 mph in six seconds. The battery provided 21 miles of electric range, with a combined efficiency of 49 MPGe. In hybrid mode, it achieved 20 mpg combined, with a total range of 370 miles. The Wrangler 4xe had three powertrain modes: Hybrid, Electric, and e-Save, allowing for versatile driving experiences. During a road trip to Yosemite, it covered 757 miles, with 120.9 on electricity, averaging 19.1 mpg. The Wrangler's off-road capabilities were evident, though it struggled with aerodynamic efficiency on highways.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines: a 1.2-liter with 137 horsepower and a 1.3-liter with 155 horsepower. 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. It featured a Sport mode for added excitement. However, it was noisy on highways, and the suspension struggled with speed bumps. Off-road, the Trailblazer required caution due to its low ground clearance. It averaged 26.1 mpg in combined driving, slightly below the EPA rating of 28 mpg.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe's high door sills and lack of side steps made entry challenging, but once inside, it offered a comfortable experience. The driving position was classic Wrangler, with a high seat and clear visibility. The center console had limited storage due to the hand-brake and transfer case lever. Rear-seat space was adequate, with amenities like air vents and USB ports. Cargo access was hindered by the swing-out tailgate and spare tire, but it offered 27.7 cubic feet of space, expandable to 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer excelled in functionality, with a spacious interior for four passengers. The RS trim featured a power-adjustable driver seat, while the rear seat offered ample legroom but lacked comfort. Cargo space was impressive, with 25.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54.4 cubic feet with them folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, accommodating long items. The Trailblazer's design prioritized practicality, making it a versatile choice for various needs.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Rubicon featured a Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and SiriusXM Guardian services. A WiFi connection was available, and the Alpine sound system provided decent audio quality. However, the Uconnect system showed signs of aging, with slow load times and outdated graphics. The Wrangler's technology focused on its hybrid powertrain and 4WD system, with helpful charging indicators and trip summary data.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer boasted a comprehensive infotainment system with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, offering Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It included Chevrolet Connected Services, a WiFi hotspot, and Teen Driver technology. The RS trim featured Alexa Built-in, Spotify, SiriusXM, and a Bose audio system. The system was user-friendly, with appealing graphics and intuitive controls. Additional features included remote engine starting and a keyless entry keypad system.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe offered advanced driving assistance systems in the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group packages. These included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warning. The Wrangler's safety features were basic but effective. However, its headlights received a Marginal rating from the IIHS, and the SUV had a Marginal rating for driver-side small-overlap frontal-impact protection. The NHTSA rated it four stars for frontal-impact and three stars for rollover resistance.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder, and Teen Driver technology. Chevy Safety Assist provided forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. Optional features included blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer's ADAS performed well during testing, and it earned top crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.