2022 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer was offered in several trim levels, including 2LT, 3LT, Premier, and RS. Most trims came with a standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine and the option of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The RS trim stood out with its V6 engine and a sophisticated twin-clutch AWD system designed for better performance on low-traction surfaces. The Blazer's design was inspired by the Camaro, featuring a sporty exterior with 20-inch wheels and a unique black trim on the rear bumper. Inside, the Blazer echoed the Camaro's style with an 8-inch touchscreen, large air vents, and a mix of hard plastics and red interior accents that matched the exterior paint.

The 2023 Lexus GX, with its imposing spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance, made a strong visual statement. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned with limited availability and exclusive paint options. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's design was more utilitarian, with a short wheelbase and minimal overhangs, emphasizing its off-road capabilities. Inside, the GX had a mix of luxury touches and an abundance of plastic materials. The interior featured heated and cooled front seats, a power-retracting steering wheel, and leather upholstery, but the overall design felt dated compared to newer Lexus models.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came with a standard 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, however, featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine delivering 308 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, also mated to a nine-speed automatic. The RS trim's dual-clutch AWD system enhanced its performance, allowing it to tow up to 4,500 pounds. The Blazer RS offered a firm and sporty driving experience, though the V6 engine was noted for being loud and unrefined. The steering and brakes were competent, but the SUV's handling in dynamic driving situations was less impressive. The Blazer RS averaged 20.5 mpg in combined driving, slightly below its EPA rating.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful on paper, the V8 provided a satisfying driving experience with a linear power delivery. The GX had a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds, but its fuel economy was a downside, with EPA estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The GX's weight contributed to its predictable but noticeable body roll in corners. The SUV featured a Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential and a 4WD system, making it capable off-road. The brakes were strong and reliable, though stopping required significant effort.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer offered a comfortable and practical interior, with black leather upholstery and red accents in the RS trim. The front seats provided power adjustments, heating, and ventilation, though they lacked side bolsters and thigh support. The Blazer featured dual-zone automatic climate control, rear air vents, and ample storage space, including a large glove compartment and center console bin. The rear seat was spacious and adjustable, and the cargo area offered 30.5 cubic feet of space, expandable to 64.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Lexus GX provided ample cubby space, with a deep center console bin and convenient cupholders. The interior featured hard buttons for controls, which some users preferred over touchscreens. The second row was comfortable, with captain's chairs or a bench seat option, but the third row was cramped and best suited for occasional use. The GX's cargo space was limited, with only 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 46.7 cubic feet with it folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with both rear rows down.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer's infotainment system was user-friendly, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with high-resolution graphics. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite radio, and a connected navigation system. The Blazer also offered wireless smartphone charging, a Bose audio system, and various safety features like rear parking sensors and a 360-degree camera. The system was praised for its ease of use and effective voice recognition.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, updated in 2022, already felt outdated. It featured a 10.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The GX included Lexus Enform Remote and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. However, the system's graphics and responsiveness lagged behind newer Lexus models. The GX excelled in off-road technology, with a 4WD system, downhill assist, and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) for improved handling.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. Additional safety features included a rear-seat reminder, Teen Driver technology, and an adaptive cruise control system. The Blazer's safety systems were effective and user-friendly, though its headlights were not highly rated by the IIHS.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it included several advanced driver assistance systems. These included automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and parking assist. Despite its older design, the GX's safety features were up-to-date.