2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2023 BMW X7

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was more than just a pretty face, though its appealing design certainly added to its charm. Chevrolet nailed the proportions, character lines, and details, with the option of a black- or white-painted roof enhancing its allure. Even in its base L trim, the Trailblazer managed to look good, which was quite a feat. The small SUV offered five trims: L, LS, LT, Activ, and RS, with prices ranging from $20,195 to $26,695, plus a $1,195 destination charge. All-wheel drive was available for all trims except the L, with varying costs depending on the trim. Our test vehicle, an RS trim with AWD, started at $28,195, but options pushed the price to $33,000, which seemed excessive given the hard plastic-filled cabin, despite its stylish interior.

The 2023 BMW X7 underwent a mid-cycle makeover, adopting a bolder design inspired by the BMW 7 Series sedan. The front end featured LED accent lights and recessed headlights, maintaining the oversized kidney grille that sparked mixed reactions. While the new look aimed for boldness, it sacrificed some grace and cohesiveness, though style is subjective. The sides and rear remained largely unchanged, offering two design themes: the chrome-trimmed Design Pure Excellence and the dark-finished M Sport. Inside, the X7 received a dashboard refresh with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The interior boasted high-quality materials, with leather upholstery and a new Sensafin synthetic substitute. Despite some harsh reflections from glossy trim options, the X7's interior was well-built, offering a modern and elegant appearance.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured turbocharged three-cylinder engines, with the larger 1.3-liter engine delivering 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, making it the preferred choice over the standard 1.2-liter engine. A CVT was standard with FWD, while AWD models received a nine-speed automatic transmission and a more sophisticated rear suspension. The RS trim rode on 18-inch aluminum wheels with all-season tires, providing a nimble and fun driving experience. However, the Trailblazer was loud on freeways, and its suspension struggled with speed bumps. Off-road, caution was needed to avoid damaging the underside. Despite its small engine, the Trailblazer averaged 26.1 mpg, slightly below the EPA rating.

The 2023 BMW X7 lineup began with the xDrive40i model, featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine and a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. The M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, the X7 handled well, with potent acceleration from the V8 and adequate performance from the six-cylinder. The brake pedal felt appropriate for a luxury SUV, and while handling was limited by weight and ride height, the X7 remained composed. Ride comfort was slightly firmer than some luxury SUVs, reflecting BMW's focus on driver engagement.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, though small, offered impressive functionality. It could accommodate four people comfortably, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat in the RS trim. The rear seat, while roomy, had flat cushions for a flat load floor when folded. The trunk provided 25.3 cubic feet of space, expandable to 54.4 cubic feet with the rear seat down. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing the Trailblazer to carry items up to 8.5 feet long.

The 2023 BMW X7 excelled in space, with ample room for second-row passengers and a large sunroof enhancing the airy feel. Accessing the third row required patience, but it offered adequate space for average-sized adults. Cargo space behind the third row was 12.8 cubic feet, expandable to 48.6 cubic feet with the third row stowed and 90.4 cubic feet with the middle seats folded. The split tailgate and adjustable suspension made loading easier. Front-seat passengers enjoyed ample storage, including a large center console bin with a wireless charging pad.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured a comprehensive infotainment system with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Our test car had the larger screen with Alexa Built-in, Spotify, SiriusXM, and a 7-speaker Bose audio system. The system was user-friendly, with physical controls for easy navigation. Additional tech included remote engine starting, a keyless entry keypad, and a hands-free power tailgate.

The 2023 BMW X7's iDrive infotainment system, while historically praised, took a step back with its latest iteration. Many physical buttons were replaced by screen functions, complicating basic tasks like seat adjustments and cruise control settings. Voice commands offered some relief, but they interrupted audio playback. The system's complexity highlighted the need for more intuitive menus and physical controls for frequently used features.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder, and Teen Driver technology. Chevy Safety Assist included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high beams. Optional features included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer earned top crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2023 BMW X7 lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but its extensive safety features provided reassurance. Standard features included frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, adaptive headlights, and parking sensors. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera, with options for adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and highway driving assist. These features performed well, reducing driver fatigue on long trips.