2022 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2021 Volvo XC40

The 2021 Volvo XC40 presented a classic SUV aesthetic, characterized by its tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch, aligning seamlessly with Volvo's signature design elements like the "Thor’s Hammer" LED headlights and a simple oval grille. The gasoline models offered a unique touch with a white contrasting roof, adding a retro flair. The XC40 Recharge, Volvo's electric variant, differentiated itself with a blanked-off grille, subtle "Recharge" badging, and model-specific alloy wheels. It featured a gloss black roof and mirror caps, a distinct rear bumper, and a unique Sage Green Metallic color. Despite these differences, the Recharge maintained a low-key appearance, appealing to those who preferred a subtle electric vehicle.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer, available in 2LT, 3LT, Premier, and RS trims, showcased a design inspired by the Camaro, both inside and out. The RS trim, in particular, stood out with its V6 engine and sophisticated twin-clutch AWD system. For 2022, the Blazer received minor updates, including revised bumper and bodyside trim for the Premier version and new wheel designs. The introduction of two-tone paint options for the LT and RS trims added a fresh look. The Blazer's design was generally appealing, though some found the black trim on the rear bumper gave it an unfinished appearance. Inside, the Blazer echoed Camaro influences with its infotainment and climate control systems, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen and innovative temperature adjustment rings on the air vents.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a versatile powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline variants featured a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base FWD T4 produced 187 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, while the AWD T5 delivered 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge model shared its powertrain with the Polestar 2, boasting dual electric motors for AWD, generating a combined 402 hp and 486 lb-ft. It utilized a 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack, providing a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds. The XC40 emphasized luxury and comfort, with excellent ride quality even on rough roads, and offered one-pedal driving for efficient deceleration.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Blazer RS featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 308 hp and 270 lb-ft, with a dual-clutch AWD system. The V6 engine provided satisfying acceleration, though it was often loud and unrefined. The Blazer RS offered various driving modes, including Tour, Sport, Slippery, and Tow/Haul, and could tow up to 4,500 pounds. While the Blazer RS promised sporty performance, it fell short on dynamic driving, with a suspension that struggled on winding roads and a transmission slow to downshift.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, both in gasoline and Recharge variants, offered similar passenger and cargo space, though it was less spacious than competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E. Clever storage solutions, such as a removable trash bin in the center console and large door bins, compensated for the limited space. The interior featured high-quality materials, with a minimalist design that integrated elements like the portrait-oriented touchscreen and air vents seamlessly.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer provided a comfortable and functional interior, with black leather upholstery and red perforations in the RS trim adding a sporty touch. The front seats offered power adjustments, heating, and ventilation, though they lacked side bolsters and thigh support. The Blazer's back seat was spacious, with the ability to slide forward and back for added cargo or passenger space. Storage options were plentiful, with a large glove compartment, center armrest bin, and door panel shelves. The Blazer's cargo area measured 30.5 cubic feet, expanding to 64.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, though these figures were modest for a midsize SUV.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, integrating Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. The system included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, with top-notch graphics and menu layouts. The Recharge also offered OTA update capability, allowing for software updates without visiting a dealership. Gasoline models retained the previous infotainment system, with standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer's infotainment system was user-friendly, with an 8-inch touchscreen display and separate stereo volume and tuning controls. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with an upgraded system offering satellite radio and connected navigation. The Blazer also featured wireless smartphone charging and an 8-speaker Bose audio system. Safety technology included rear parking sensors, a high-resolution reversing camera, and a 360-degree surround-view camera, though rear visibility was limited.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 received top safety ratings, with a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Recharge model featured Volvo's latest sensor suite, capable of future updates for advanced driver aids.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer included Chevy Safety Assist as standard, with features like forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. Additional safety options included a vibrating Safety Alert Seat, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot warning. The Blazer's advanced driving assistance systems were effective, though the IIHS did not award it a "Top Safety Pick" due to inadequate headlight performance.