2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned and available in four model series, offered a range of trim levels from base to Luxury, with prices starting at $37,950. The NX 350, particularly in F Sport and Luxury trims, stood out with its distinctive Lexus design, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details. The SUV was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, providing more passenger and cargo space. The F Sport trim added sporty elements like a unique grille, 20-inch wheels, and sport-bolstered seats, while the interior adopted a minimalist approach with a large touchscreen controlling many functions, which could be challenging to navigate quickly.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer, resembling a smaller version of the Blazer, presented a rugged yet upscale appearance with intricate lighting elements and dark chrome trim. The Activ and RS models offered unique styling, with the Activ focusing on a rugged look and the RS on a sportier aesthetic. The Trailblazer featured contrasting roof colors and a distinctive interior with leatherette upholstery and copper-toned trim. While the cabin didn't scream "outdoor adventure," it had unique design touches like grab handles and a creased dashboard, adding personality to the otherwise black interior.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h hybrid producing 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivering 302 horsepower. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The NX 350 F Sport provided a dynamic driving experience with adaptive suspension and multiple driving modes, while the Luxury trim offered a softer ride. The NX's handling impressed, though it wasn't suited for off-road adventures due to limited ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer shared its platform with the Buick Encore GX, offering a standard 1.2-liter turbocharged engine with 137 horsepower and an optional 1.3-liter engine with 155 horsepower. The Trailblazer's AWD models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, while FWD models used a CVT. The Activ model, with its tuned dampers, performed well on gravel and pavement, though it exhibited typical body roll. The Trailblazer's selectable AWD system required manual engagement, unlike competitors' automatic systems. Despite its off-road styling, the Trailblazer was best suited for light dirt roads.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided a comfortable interior with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The F Sport trim offered better seat bolstering, while rear passengers enjoyed ample space and amenities like air vents and USB ports. The NX's cargo space increased to 22.7 cubic feet, expandable to 46.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Luxury trim featured ambient lighting with 14 themes, enhancing the cabin's atmosphere.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer, though small, 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's cargo space measured 25.3 cubic feet, expandable to 54.4 cubic feet, though it lagged behind some competitors. Upfront, designers maximized space with storage bins and trays, though the small dashboard carve-out's purpose was unclear.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system, featuring large touchscreens, voice recognition, and cloud-based services. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch upgrade available. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 10-speaker sound system, and optional Mark Levinson audio. The Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems offered natural voice control, while a digital key and user profiles added convenience. However, the touchscreen collected fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer's standard infotainment system included a 7-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. An 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and Bose audio were optional. While the Trailblazer's tech might not satisfy the most tech-savvy buyers, the available screen was well-sized for the dashboard, with easy-to-read graphics and logical menus. The combination of a smaller instrument cluster screen and analog gauges effectively conveyed information.

The 2022 Lexus NX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driver assistance systems like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The Emergency Driving Stop System ensured safety in case of driver unresponsiveness. Additional features included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist. Premium trim added rear pedestrian detection and adaptive front lighting.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane keep assist. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer earned a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with high scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention tech.