2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was a small SUV that managed to impress with its appealing design. Chevrolet nailed the proportions, character lines, and details, making it attractive even in its base L trim. The option for a contrasting black or white-painted roof added to its charm. Despite its compact size, the Trailblazer offered a range of trims from L to RS, with prices starting at $20,195 and going up to $26,695, plus a $1,195 destination charge. The RS trim, which we tested, came with all-wheel drive (AWD) and a starting price of $28,195, but options pushed it to $33,000. However, the interior was filled with hard plastic, which detracted from its overall value.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus GX boasted a commanding presence with its large spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance. The GX's design was both imposing and sleek, with flared fenders and a short wheelbase that made it look ready for off-road adventures. The Black Line Special Edition returned for 2023, limited to 3,000 units and available in three colors, including the new Eminent White Pearl. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's interior had a surprising amount of plastic, reflecting its age and the need for cost-effective manufacturing. However, it still offered luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured turbocharged three-cylinder engines, with the larger 1.3-liter engine providing 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with AWD, offered a more satisfying nine-speed automatic transmission and improved ride and handling. The Trailblazer's light curb weight and turbocharged torque made it nimble and fun to drive, especially in RS trim with 18-inch aluminum wheels. However, it was loud on freeways, and its suspension struggled with speed bumps. Despite its small engine, it averaged 26.1 mpg in combined driving, slightly below the EPA rating of 28 mpg.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its 4.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque through 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 6,500-pound towing capacity but lagged behind other SUVs in fuel economy, with an EPA estimate of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. Its weight contributed to body roll in corners, but the GX's driving dynamics were predictable and controllable. The Torsen limited-slip differential and 4WD system made it capable off-road.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer excelled in functionality despite its small size. It offered ample room for four passengers, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat in the RS trim. The rear seat was spacious but lacked comfort due to its flat design. The Trailblazer's cargo space was impressive, with 25.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54.4 cubic feet with them folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, accommodating long items like surfboards.

The 2023 Lexus GX provided plenty of storage options, with a deep center console bin and convenient cupholders. The decision to use hard buttons instead of touchscreens was a practical choice, though the abundance of buttons required some getting used to. The second row was comfortable, with captain's chairs or a bench seat option. However, the third row was cramped and best suited for emergencies. The GX's cargo space was limited, with only 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 64.7 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with a comprehensive infotainment system featuring a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen. It included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, along with Chevrolet Connected Services and a WiFi hotspot. The larger touchscreen in our test car offered Alexa Built-in, Spotify, and SiriusXM, along with a 7-speaker Bose audio system. The system was user-friendly, with physical controls for easy navigation.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, updated in 2022, already felt dated. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. However, the graphics lagged behind newer Lexus models. The GX included a 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo and a CD player, which felt outdated. While the infotainment was lacking, the GX excelled in off-road technology, with a 4WD system, downhill assist, and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags and a rear-seat reminder system. Chevy Safety Assist was standard, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. Optional features included blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer earned top crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

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