2022 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design that required some getting used to. Its blunt and bulbous nose, combined with black windshield pillars, created a floating roof effect, adding visual weight to the front. Despite its swollen haunches and 20-inch wheels, the design could feel overwhelming. Over time, however, the Highlander's appearance might have seemed more familiar and less striking. The interior offered a two-tone look with soft leather in higher trims, though the dashboard's asymmetrical design and glossy detailing could suffer from reflections. The mix of illumination colors in the gauges added a busy appearance at night.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Blazer showcased a Camaro-inspired design that was visually appealing, especially with 20-inch wheels. However, the black trim on the rear bumper gave it an unfinished look. Inside, the Blazer echoed the Camaro's style with an 8-inch touchscreen and innovative climate controls. While the interior featured hard plastics, the RS trim's red accents matched the exterior, adding sophistication. The Blazer's design promised sporty dynamics, though it didn't fully deliver on that front.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, achieving 36 mpg in combined driving. With 243 horsepower, it offered adequate power but lacked excitement, especially on hilly terrain where the engine sounded strained. The steering felt lifeless, though regenerative brakes improved over previous models. The Highlander Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency but sacrificed driving enjoyment, with significant body movement affecting ride quality.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer offered a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 228 horsepower, while the RS trim featured a 3.6-liter V6 with 308 horsepower. The V6 provided satisfying acceleration but was noisy. The Blazer's suspension felt firm and sporty in city driving, but less so on winding roads. The steering in Sport mode felt artificially heavy, and the nine-speed automatic was slow to downshift. The Blazer averaged 20.5 mpg, slightly below its EPA rating.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited provided comfortable seating with power adjustments and heating/ventilation for the front seats. The second-row bench seat increased capacity to eight but felt narrow. The third row was uncomfortable for adults, with limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space was generous, with 84.3 cubic feet available when the third row was folded. However, storage solutions were less accommodating than previous models.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer RS featured black leather upholstery with red accents, offering a sporty look. The front seats provided power adjustments and heating/ventilation, though they lacked thigh support. The back seat was spacious, sliding for additional cargo or passenger space. Storage was ample, with large compartments and bins. The Blazer's cargo area offered 30.5 cubic feet, expanding to 64.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The Limited trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen with an 11-speaker JBL audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the sound quality varied. Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror enhanced convenience, while a driver information display provided detailed data.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer's infotainment system was intuitive, with an 8-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The upgraded system included satellite radio and connected navigation. The Blazer's voice recognition was impressive, and the Bose audio system, though not premium, was adequate. Safety features like rear parking sensors and a 360-degree camera improved visibility.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available from the LE trim. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance had room for improvement. The Highlander received a five-star NHTSA rating and was expected to achieve a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer included Chevy Safety Assist with forward-collision warning and lane-keep assist. Additional features like the Safety Alert Seat and adaptive cruise control were available. The Blazer's safety systems worked well, though its headlights didn't earn high ratings from the IIHS.