2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2023 Kia Carnival

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was more than just a pretty face, though its appealing design certainly added to its charm. Chevrolet nailed the proportions, character lines, and small details, with the option of a black- or white-painted roof enhancing its allure. Even in its base L trim, the Trailblazer managed to look good, which was quite a feat for a small SUV.

Available in five trims—L, LS, LT, Activ, and RS—the Trailblazer's pricing ranged from $20,195 to $26,695, with a $1,195 destination charge. All-wheel drive (AWD) was an option for all but the L trim, with varying costs depending on the trim level. Our test vehicle, an RS trim with AWD, started at $28,195, but options pushed the price to $33,000. Despite its stylish interior, the cabin was filled with hard plastic, making it hard to justify the high price tag.

The 2023 Kia Carnival, on the other hand, relied on its distinctive style, unique interior fittings, and impressive technology to stand out in the minivan segment. It was available in LX, EX, SX, and SX Prestige trims, with base prices from $33,100 to $46,200, plus a $1,365 destination charge. Our test vehicle, an SX Prestige, came with extra-cost Astra Blue paint and additional packages, bringing the MSRP to $49,285.

In its second year in the U.S. market, the Carnival received updates like a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and touchscreen infotainment system in the SX trim, and eight-passenger seating in the SX Prestige. The Carnival SX Prestige exuded an upscale image with its high-tech lighting, intricate grille, and decorative roof pillar trim. Inside, dual screens, dual power sunroofs, and quality materials added sophistication, while the robust transmission shifter imparted a sense of quality.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured turbocharged three-cylinder engines, with the standard 1.2-liter engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. The larger 1.3-liter engine offered 155 hp and 174 lb-ft, making the Trailblazer feel lively. A CVT came with both engines for FWD, while AWD models received a nine-speed automatic transmission and a more sophisticated rear suspension. The RS trim rode on 18-inch aluminum wheels with 22/55 all-season tires, providing a zippy and nimble driving experience. However, the Trailblazer was loud on freeways, and its suspension struggled with speed bumps. It averaged 26.1 mpg in combined driving, slightly below the EPA rating of 28 mpg.

The 2023 Kia Carnival was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It was EPA-rated at 22 mpg in combined driving and could tow up to 3,500 pounds. The Carnival offered Eco, Normal, Smart, and Sport driving modes. Despite lacking AWD and a hybrid powertrain, the V6 engine provided ample power, and the transmission operated flawlessly. However, the brakes faded during a mountain descent, though they performed well otherwise. The Carnival had a firm, sporty ride with a softer quality when fully loaded, though it was bouncy on certain freeway sections. Overall, it was satisfying to drive, though the Honda Odyssey felt more athletic.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite its small size, offered impressive functionality. It could accommodate four people comfortably, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat in the RS trim. The rear seat, though roomy, was shaped like a park bench, likely to ensure a flat load floor when folded. The trunk provided 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 54.4 cubic feet with the rear seat down. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing the Trailblazer to carry items up to 8.5 feet long.

The 2023 Kia Carnival, while not resembling a typical minivan, offered a spacious and versatile interior. It featured three types of upholstery, with genuine leather in the SX Prestige trim. The test vehicle had a three-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Carnival's smart sliding doors and VIP Lounge Seats added convenience, though they limited cargo space to 86.9 cubic feet. Without the VIP seats, the Carnival offered up to 145.1 cubic feet of cargo space. The third-row seat was comfortable for adults, and the cargo area provided 40.2 cubic feet of space behind it.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with a comprehensive infotainment system featuring a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen display. Standard features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with options for Chevrolet Connected Services and a WiFi hotspot. Our test car had the larger touchscreen with Alexa Built-in, Spotify, SiriusXM, and a 7-speaker Bose audio system. The system was user-friendly, with physical controls for easy operation. Additional tech included remote engine starting, a keyless entry keypad, and a hands-free power tailgate.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX Prestige boasted 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, similar to a Mercedes-Benz. The digital instrumentation featured lush graphics that changed with the time of day. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and a one-year subscription to Kia Connect Ultimate services. However, the 12-speaker Bose audio system was mediocre. The Carnival also offered Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and Passenger View with Night Vision. The optional dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system was sophisticated but underutilized by teenagers.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder system, and Teen Driver technology. Chevy Safety Assist was standard, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high-beam headlights. Optional features included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer earned top crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2023 Kia Carnival came with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance and collision avoidance systems, with features added as you moved up the trim levels. Standard features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The rear-seat reminder system used ultrasonic sensors to detect movement, and the Safe Exit System warned occupants of approaching vehicles. The EX trim added Junction Turning Detection and Highway Driving Assist, while the SX trim included a surround-view camera and Blind-Spot View Monitor. The IIHS named the Carnival a Top Safety Pick for 2022, though the NHTSA had not tested it.