2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX was a standout in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a spacious interior that belied its compact exterior. Built on a new dedicated platform, the MDX featured a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. The Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels contributed to its sporty and modern design. Inside, the MDX boasted a refined cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard layout, though initially quirky, was intuitive, and the 12.3-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed for safety. The MDX's interior was both comfortable and functional, with a variety of color options for a personalized touch.

In contrast, the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer presented a mini version of the Chevrolet Blazer, exuding SUV toughness with upscale details like intricate lighting elements and dark chrome trim. The Activ and RS models offered unique styling, with the Activ featuring a rugged look and the RS showcasing a sportier design. The Trailblazer's contrasting roof options added a distinctive flair, while the interior combined leatherette upholstery with copper-toned and sparkly black plastic trim. Although the cabin didn't scream "outdoor adventure," it had distinctive design touches like grab handles and a creased dashboard. The Trailblazer's interior was practical, with comfortable seating and a mix of colors and textures that added personality.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard on base and Tech trims, and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) available. The SH-AWD system offered torque vectoring, enhancing cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded with a double-wishbone setup in the front and revised rear multi-link suspension, improving ride quality and sporty handling. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly improved, providing a solid ride feel. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor performance to their preferences.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer shared its platform and powertrains with the Buick Encore GX, offering a standard 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. An optional 1.3-liter turbo-three increased output to 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque. The Trailblazer's drivetrain options included front-wheel drive with a CVT or all-wheel drive with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Activ model featured dampers tuned for gravel roads, providing a composed and nimble ride. The Trailblazer's selectable AWD system required manual engagement, unlike competitors' automatic systems. It offered Normal, Sport, and Snow drive modes, though the differences were subtle.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled as a versatile three-row SUV, offering comfortable seating for the first two rows and a flexible second row with a removable center section. The second row could slide and recline, providing balanced legroom for passengers. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the MDX's seating capacity was appreciated for carpools. The vehicle offered between 16.3 and 18.1 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row, expandable to 95 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The power tailgate featured "Grab ‘N Go" and Hands-Free Access functions, enhancing convenience. The MDX's interior lighting was customizable, with 27 themes to suit different moods.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer, though one of the smallest SUVs, offered decent utility with generous headroom and mid-pack legroom. The rear seats were comfortable for short trips, but flat cushions made long journeys less appealing. The Trailblazer provided 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the second-row seats in place, expandable to 54.4 cubic feet. While respectable, these figures were behind some competitors. The Trailblazer's towing capacity was limited to 1,000 pounds. Up front, the vehicle offered practical storage solutions, including a covered bin, deep tray, and cupholders. A small dashboard carve-out was present, though its function was unclear.

The 2022 Acura MDX was equipped with advanced technology, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. Navigation was standard on Tech and above trims, and all models featured a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel. Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Qi-compatible wireless charging were standard. The A-Spec and Advance trims included a CabinTalk feature and a head-up display. A WiFi hotspot and over-the-air updates were also available, ensuring the MDX remained technologically current.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer's standard infotainment system included a 7-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Optional features included an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, a Bose audio system, and wireless phone charging. While the Trailblazer's tech offerings were adequate for most buyers, the optional touchscreen was smaller than some competitors. The combination of a smaller instrument cluster screen and analog gauges effectively conveyed information. Smart design touches, like a person-shaped icon for pedestrian detection, enhanced usability.

The 2022 Acura MDX had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the 2020 model received high marks, and Acura aimed for even better ratings in 2022. The MDX featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The front end was redesigned for pedestrian safety, and a low-speed braking control system was included. The AcuraWatch suite of safety and driver assistance technologies was standard, offering features like collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer was named a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, receiving top scores in crash tests and high marks for front-crash prevention tech. The NHTSA awarded the Trailblazer a five-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and a Teen Driver system. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.