2022 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was a fresh departure from its predecessor, the original Ioniq. It embraced a new design ethos centered around electrified mobility, distinguishing itself with a minimalist yet intricate exterior. The Ioniq 5's Parametric Pixel design, inspired by 8-bit graphics, was both fascinating and frustrating, with pixelated lighting elements used extensively across the vehicle. Despite its futuristic exterior, the interior of the Ioniq 5 was a sanctuary of calm, featuring a "Living Space" design with sustainable materials and a zero-gravity relaxation mode for the driver's seat.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Blazer sported a design heavily influenced by the Camaro, both inside and out. The Blazer's exterior was bold, with a distinctive black trim that some found unappealing. Inside, the Blazer featured an 8-inch touchscreen display, large round air vents, and a mix of hard plastics that detracted from its otherwise sporty appearance. The RS trim added red interior accents that matched the exterior paint, enhancing its visual appeal. However, the quality of materials, especially in the upper door panels, left much to be desired.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered a range of powertrains and configurations. The base SE Standard Range model featured a 168-horsepower rear-mounted electric motor with a 220-mile range. The extended-range variants, available in SE, SEL, and Limited trims, boasted a 225-horsepower motor with a 303-mile range. The AWD versions, with a dual-motor system producing 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque, had a reduced range of 256 miles. The Ioniq 5's performance was competent, with a 0-60 mph time of under 5 seconds in AWD configuration. The vehicle also featured four drive modes, including a Sport mode that added excitement at the cost of range.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came with two engine options. The standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produced 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The RS trim featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 308 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, also mated to a nine-speed automatic. The V6 engine, available as an option on the 3LT and Premier trims, could tow up to 4,500 pounds. The Blazer RS offered a sporty driving experience, but its suspension and transmission performance were less impressive on winding roads. The V6 engine was powerful but often loud and unrefined.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 utilized the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), offering a spacious interior with a 118.1-inch wheelbase, longer than the seven-passenger Hyundai Palisade. The Ioniq 5 provided 133.7 cubic feet of total interior volume, with 106.5 cubic feet dedicated to passenger space. The vehicle's design emphasized comfort and utility, with features like a moveable center console and supportive leatherette seats. However, its cargo space of 27.2 cubic feet was less than some competitors.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer, while comfortable and practical, had a less impressive interior. The RS trim featured black leather upholstery with red perforations, power-adjustable front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The rear seats were spacious and could slide forward and back to adjust cargo space. The Blazer offered 30.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 64.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Storage options included a large glove compartment, center armrest bin, and door panel shelves.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was packed with advanced technology, including a high-voltage, energy-dense system that supported ultra-fast charging and vehicle-to-load capabilities. The Ioniq 5 could charge to 80% in just 18 minutes using a 350-kW charger. The vehicle also featured a redesigned Blue Link app, digital key, and over-the-air updates. The 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment were elegant and easy to read, even with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer's infotainment system was user-friendly, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with high-resolution graphics, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and available satellite radio and navigation. The system included physical controls for volume and tuning, making it easy to use. The Blazer also offered wireless smartphone charging, an 8-speaker Bose audio system, and a suite of safety features like rear parking sensors and a 360-degree camera.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 came equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) that included blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and front- and rear-collision avoidance. The vehicle also featured Hyundai Highway Drive Assist I, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system with machine-learning adaptive cruise control. A head-up display with augmented reality overlays was available, though it could be distracting.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer included Chevy Safety Assist as standard, offering forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keep assist. Additional safety features included a rear-seat reminder, Teen Driver technology, and an available Safety Alert Seat. The Blazer's adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance were effective, but its headlights did not receive high ratings from the IIHS.