2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 Nissan Rogue had long been a staple in Nissan's lineup since its introduction in 2007. With each redesign, it cemented its reputation as a formidable competitor among compact SUVs. The 2022 version continued the mature and refined look that had been introduced the previous year. Its design featured the iconic V-motion grille, framed by multi-level LED headlights and daytime running lights, giving it a sharp and sophisticated appearance. LED fog lamps added functionality and style for the SL and Platinum trims. Beneath the surface, elements like active grille shutters and an “air curtain” improved aerodynamics. The floating roof illusion, created by dark supporting pillars, added a touch of sleekness, while the slightly bulging liftgate rounded off the vehicle's rear with a polished finish.

Inside, the Rogue's cabin was an exercise in modern design and comfort, following a trend of layered dashboards with distinct horizontal planes that varied by trim and color. A standout feature was its electronic gear selector lever, which freed up console space for practical storage solutions, including a large cubby and a wireless charging pad. A 9-inch infotainment screen took center stage, well-placed for driver visibility. The instrument panel varied from a 7-inch center display on lower trims to a full 12.3-inch digital screen on higher trims. Nissan's Zero Gravity front seats promised comfort, and the second row was spacious enough for two adults, or three in tighter quarters. The fit and finish of cabin materials, especially in the Platinum trim, were top-notch.

In contrast, the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer was designed to evoke the rugged charm of a mini Chevrolet Blazer. It successfully balanced SUV toughness with upscale details, including intricate lighting elements and dark chrome trim. The Activ and RS models boasted unique styling cues: the Activ aimed for a rugged aesthetic with a model-specific front fascia, skid plate, standard roof rails, and 17-inch Hankook Sport Terrain tires. Meanwhile, the RS leaned more sporty, featuring blacked-out exterior trim, a mesh grille, and dual exhaust outlets with chrome tips.

The Trailblazer's cabin was similarly distinctive. The Activ model tested came with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, leatherette upholstery, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Décor elements were a mix of copper-toned and sparkly black plastic trim, with gray seat inserts adding personality. Though the interior didn't scream "outdoor adventure," features like grab handles around the center console and creased dashboard and air vents offered a signature look.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue demonstrated Nissan's dedication to practical details, making it suitable for both families and commuters. The front cabin was replete with storage solutions, including bottle holders, cupholders, a glove compartment, a center console bin, and additional cubbies. Various charging options, including USB-A, USB-C, and 12-volt outlets, ensured devices stayed powered. Rear passengers also had ample storage and charging capabilities, with the 60/40 split-reclining bench seat offering flexibility. Cargo capacity was impressive, accommodating between 31.6 and 36.5 cubic feet of luggage with the seats up, and 74.1 cubic feet with the second row folded.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite being one of the smallest SUVs on the market, offered substantial space for its size. Though narrower and shorter than the 1999 Chevy S-10 Blazer, it had a longer wheelbase, translating to better passenger space. The Trailblazer's cabin provided decent headroom comparable to the Kia Seltos, while legroom was mid-pack but better than the Hyundai Kona. However, the flat rear seat cushions made long trips less comfortable. Trailblazer's cargo space measured 25.3 cubic feet with the seats up and 54.4 cubic feet with them down, respectable though slightly behind competitors like the Kia Seltos. While not ideal for heavy-duty loads, it was adequate for weekend trips.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue carried over its tech upgrades from the 2021 model, featuring a digital trifecta: a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display. Upper trims boasted wireless Apple CarPlay while standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Google Maps/Waze via voice command. ProPilot Assist with Navi-Link offered semi-autonomous navigation and driving aids, integrating with the Rogue's navigation system to adjust speeds based on road conditions ahead.

In the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer, the standard infotainment system comprised a 7-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. Higher trims provided an 8-inch touchscreen, a 4.2-inch instrument cluster screen, navigation, Bose audio, and other niceties. While the tech package in the Trailblazer was serviceable, it lacked the bells and whistles likely to attract tech-savvy buyers. The 8-inch touchscreen, though smaller by modern standards, was perfectly sized for the Trailblazer’s dashboard and provided user-friendly graphics and menus. The combination of smaller digital and analog gauges conveyed necessary information effectively.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue offered a comprehensive suite of safety features under the Nissan Safety Shield 360 banner, which included automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automatic braking. Ten airbags and crumple zones enhanced passive safety. ProPilot Assist and its upgraded version with Navi-Link added semi-autonomous capabilities, like adaptive cruise control and steering assist. The 2022 Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, while the 2021 model was a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer also came well-equipped with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and a Teen Driver system. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer earned the 2022 Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.