2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Lexus NX carried forward the brand's signature design elements, offering a sharp and sculpted exterior that was reminiscent of its siblings, the smaller UX and larger RX. The NX 300 and 300 F Sport gasoline models were the focus, with the latter providing a sportier appearance through features like a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels. Inside, the F Sport models boasted exclusive quilted NuLuxe sport seats and a choice of interior color schemes, including the striking Circuit Red. The interior was well-crafted, with a familiar gauge cluster and a somewhat outdated center stack design that included a rare CD player and elevated climate-control buttons. Despite its quirks, the NX maintained a high level of functionality, though it lacked open small-item storage space.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was praised for its appealing styling and practical design. Available in five trims, the Trailblazer offered a range of options, with the RS trim providing a sporty look with 18-inch aluminum wheels. The interior, while filled with hard plastics, was stylish and functional, featuring a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat and a spacious rear seat. The Trailblazer excelled in cargo capacity, with a trunk that could hold 25.3 cubic feet and a maximum of 54.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing for the transport of long items. Despite its compact size, the Trailblazer was a versatile and practical choice for those seeking a small SUV.

The 2021 Lexus NX was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain allowed the NX to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds, a respectable time for its class. The standard six-speed automatic transmission was adequate, though not as smooth as the newer multi-speed options available in other vehicles. The NX offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, with the latter capable of transferring up to 50 percent of torque to the rear axle. Fuel economy was average, with the FWD model achieving 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. The NX also featured an adaptive-suspension system and three drive modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—each affecting throttle response and steering assist.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, on the other hand, utilized turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The larger 1.3-liter engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, was the preferred choice for its spirited performance. The Trailblazer's AWD models came with a nine-speed automatic transmission, enhancing ride and handling. The RS trim, with its 18-inch wheels and Sport driving mode, offered a fun and nimble driving experience. However, the Trailblazer was noisy on highways and had a bouncy ride on uneven surfaces. Fuel economy was slightly below expectations, with a combined average of 26.1 mpg, falling short of the EPA's 28 mpg rating.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured a well-styled and comfortable interior, with ample room for front passengers and decent legroom for rear occupants. Heated and ventilated seats were available, and the rear seats offered a 60/40 split-folding option. However, cargo space was limited, with only 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The NX included a power liftgate with kick sensor technology and optional power-folding rear seats.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer excelled in functionality, offering a spacious interior for four passengers and a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat. The rear seat, though flat and bench-like, provided ample legroom. The Trailblazer's cargo area was impressive, with 25.3 cubic feet of space and a maximum of 54.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, accommodating long items with ease.

The 2021 Lexus NX came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch option available through the Navigation package. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. However, the system was criticized for its lack of user-friendliness. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a WiFi hotspot. The NX also offered a Mark Levinson 14-speaker audio system and compatibility with the Lexus Enform Remote mobile app.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was praised for its intuitive design and included Alexa Built-in, Spotify, and SiriusXM. A 7-speaker Bose audio system was available, along with wireless smartphone charging. The Trailblazer also offered a keyless entry keypad system and a hands-free power tailgate.

The 2021 Lexus NX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The NX received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with a five-star overall rating from the latter. Lexus Enform Safety Connect provided emergency assistance and collision notification services.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with 10 airbags and a rear-seat reminder system. Chevy Safety Assist included forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high beams. Optional features included blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer earned top crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, with its ADAS praised for accuracy and smooth operation.