The Trailblazer and Honda CR-V are two similar vehicles, albeit in different classes of SUV. The Trailblazer is a surprisingly spacious subcompact model, while the CR-V is in the compact class. Although the Honda CR-V is larger, the Trailblazer comes with nearly all the same equipment, from hands-free lift gates to automatic driver-assistance features. If you want to find out which is the best value for money or a better fit for you, check out this guide comparing the Trailblazer and CR-V.
Engine and Performance
The 2022 Trailblazer offers a pair of three-cylinder turbocharged engine choices: a 1.2-liter engine with 137 horsepower and a 1.3-liter with 155 horsepower. The 1.3-liter engine has an optional all-wheel-drive system, or it can use the same front-wheel-drive system found on the 1.2-liter models. The front-wheel-drive Trailblazer uses a continuously variable automatic transmission, while the all-wheel-drive versions use a nine-speed automatic. The Trailblazer can tow up to 1,000 lbs with the right equipment installed.
The 2022 Honda CR-V offers 179 lb-ft of torque and 190 horsepower from a 1.5-liter turbo engine, and properly equipped models can tow up to 1,500 lbs. While Honda’s SUV may have higher numbers, there are some important caveats. One is that the CR-V is a heavier vehicle, and another is the Trailblazer’s notably sharp steering and poised handling.
Both SUVs are agile for their class, but the Trailblazer is notably more comfortable on interstates and back roads alike. The ACTIV versions have larger wheels and a stiffer suspension for off-roading, but all trims remain poised and travel smoothly over older roads and cobblestones. The CR-V doesn’t offer anything quite like the Trailblazer ACTIV, but it does have the expensive Touring model for enhanced on-pavement performance features.
Gas Mileage
The 2022 Honda CR-V has a fuel efficiency rating of 30 mpg combined, with 28 and 34 mpg for the city and highway, respectively. However, as more subcompact cars are becoming fully electric, the Trailblazer is one of the most efficient subcompact SUVs out there. Chevy fuel economy is often competitive or above the rest of the market, and the Trailblazer achieves 29 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway with the base engine. If you choose the 1.3-liter engine, the ratings in front-wheel-drive models increase to 29 mpg on city streets and 33 mpg on faster roads.
Interior Comfort Features
Although the CR-V is the larger vehicle, most drivers around Plano care about factors such as cabin quality. The 2022 Trailblazer offers leatherette seating on the ACTIV and genuine leather on the RS, with premium cloth on the lower trims. The Honda CR-V gives you similar benefits, such as leather seating on the EX trim, a heated steering wheel on the Touring, and heated front seats on the SE or higher.
The Chevy’s interior is roomy, relaxing, and comes with a ton of convenience features. The driving position is relatively high, and the rear seat has enough room for two adults to be comfortable. The interior is primarily made of black plastic, and everything has a lovely texture to avoid looking basic, while upper-level models add color trim and chrome accents. Overall, if you’re on a budget where a smaller vehicle is more appropriate, you’ll find the Trailblazer just as comfortable and appointed in quality materials as the CR-V.
Cargo Space
The Honda CR-V provides 39.2 cubic feet of space behind the back seats and 75.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The Trailblazer’s rear cargo zone is 25.3 cubic feet, but the back seats can fold flat to increase cargo space to up to 54.4 cubic feet. With the Trailblazer’s front passenger seat and back seats folded flat to extend the potential interior length to 8.5 feet, you can easily fit in longer objects such as kayaks.
Entertainment Features
A 7-inch touch screen, a six-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, two USB ports, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are all included as standard features on the 2022 Chevy Trailblazer. What’s more, the infotainment system is praised for being user-friendly with simple menus that are easy to navigate. The touch screen responds to inputs quickly, but physical controls still remain an option. Sync your phone with the Trailblazer and use your favorite apps through the touch screen or available voice commands.
The CR-V only carries a 5-inch touch screen, a four-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, and one USB port on the starting trim level. You’ll have to upgrade to anything above the base trim to get a 7-inch touch screen.
Safety Ratings and Features
Lane-keep assist with departure warning, forward collision alert with front pedestrian and automatic emergency braking systems, IntelliBeam lights, and a following distance indicator all come standard thanks to the 2022 Trailblazer Chevy Safety Assist bundle. The 2022 CR-V offers LED fog lights, a blind-spot monitor, and other useful features on the EX and higher trims, but chances are you’ll find a Trailblazer with the same features for a few thousand dollars less.
What’s New?
Although a 2023 CR-V will come with a redesign, the 2022 version has no changes. In contrast, Chevrolet made a couple of pleasant alterations to feature availability to further improve the Trailblazer’s value for money. The LT now gets the heated steering wheel option, and this feature comes standard on the ACTIV and RS. There are also new colors and options for roof rack cross rails, towing equipment, and more.
Winner: 2022 Chevy Trailblazer
The CR-V offers similar features to the Trailblazer, as well as more options to stylize the cabin or make things more luxurious. However, considering Honda’s model has a much higher overall MSRP, you can get the same safety and practical equipment for much less with the 2022 Trailblazer. You’ll also enjoy an even more comfortable and engaging powertrain, especially on the ACTIV.
We recommend the Trailblazer for newer drivers or those seeking a high-value subcompact SUV. If you don’t mind the Trailblazer’s size, you’ll be impressed by its interior volume, driving experience, and wealth of standard equipment. Check out Huffines Chevrolet Plano and our new Chevy inventory to find the perfect Trailblazer for you, and feel free to contact us with any questions about available models or customization options.