2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer, inspired by the larger Blazer midsize crossover SUV, was a stylish subcompact vehicle. It featured dark gray plastic trim around its lower perimeter, stacked triple front lights similar to the Hyundai Kona, and two-tone paint schemes reminiscent of the Kia Soul. The Activ trim added a rugged appearance with front and rear skid plate trim, unique 17-inch aluminum wheels, sport terrain tires, a larger grille, and standard two-tone paint. Our test vehicle, priced at $30,580, had Mosaic Black paint, a Summit White roof, and Jet Black leatherette seats with Arizona cabin accents. The interior design was excellent, with a well-thought-out control layout and useful storage, although the presence of hard shiny plastic was a drawback at higher price points.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator received subtle styling updates, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, with a standard 20-inch design. The front end was restyled, featuring an Audi-esque grille with the Lincoln star and chrome detailing, which some felt reduced its elegance. Inside, the Navigator dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring Lincoln’s Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display was a significant upgrade, and the Navigator continued to offer standard and long-wheelbase styles with Standard, Reserve, and Black Label trims. Our test vehicle, a Black Label in Central Park theme, was priced at $106,530 and featured a luxurious green interior with second-row heated, ventilated, and massaging captain’s chairs.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with two engine options. The base models had a turbocharged 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Higher trims featured a turbocharged 1.3-liter 3-cylinder engine delivering 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque, with AWD models getting a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Activ AWD’s powertrain was agreeable, with torque available from 1,600 to 4,000 rpm. The 9-speed automatic provided smooth gear changes, and Sport mode enhanced responsiveness. The Trailblazer averaged 26.6 mpg, slightly below the EPA rating of 28 mpg. However, it had quirks like transmission hesitation in Normal mode and a firm ride with suspension impact harshness over bumps.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and available in RWD or 4WD. The Navigator’s towing capacity ranged from 8,100 to 8,700 pounds, depending on the configuration. The adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview and a new electronic brake booster improved ride quality and braking response. During testing, the Navigator averaged 18.6 mpg, slightly above the EPA rating of 18 mpg. The SUV handled various driving conditions, including snow and mud, with ease, thanks to its 4WD system, 9.7 inches of ground clearance, and adaptive suspension.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered cloth seats only in the base trims, with leatherette in higher trims. The automatic climate control struggled to keep the cabin cool, and the rear seats were uncomfortable with a flat cushion and reclined backrest. However, the cargo space was practical, expanding from 25.3 cubic feet to 54.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, and the front passenger seat also folded for additional cargo length.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator’s 30-way power-adjustable front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain’s chairs also offered heating, ventilation, and massage, making long trips enjoyable. The third-row seats were roomy and supportive, and the Navigator provided generous storage and cargo space. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more cargo volume, with up to 120.2 cubic feet available.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured two infotainment systems. The base system had a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth pairing for two smartphones, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, Teen Driver technology, and Chevrolet Connected Access services with a WiFi hotspot. The upgraded system for Activ and RS trims included an 8-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and cloud-connected vehicle personalization. The interface was user-friendly, with physical controls for power, volume, and tuning. The Bose premium sound system effectively drowned out road noise.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering a modern interface with dual data panels. Physical controls for volume, tuning, and climate functions were easy to use. Sync 4 supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and the voice recognition system was improved. The Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system now included Amazon Fire TV, providing access to streaming services. The 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with standard Chevy Safety Assist, including forward-collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and a safe following distance indicator. Additional options included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. However, the adaptive cruise control was inconsistent, and the lane-keeping assist system was unreliable. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of review.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The surround-view camera system was now standard. ActiveGlide, Lincoln’s semi-autonomous driving technology, performed well on approved highways but required constant driver attention. The Navigator’s safety features aimed to enhance driver confidence and convenience.