Every once in a while there is a vehicle released in a particular vehicle segment where its affordability is the biggest selling point. The 2023 Nissan Versa, for example, is the cheapest vehicle in the subcompact vehicle segment, but it still offers a great amount of value. This high value for money can be seen in its roomy cabin, good list of standard features, and excellent fuel economy.

However, the cheapest vehicle in an automotive class rarely offers the most value for the money. For example, the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer is the cheapest vehicle in the compact SUV class, but it is far from the best value on the market. Here is everything you need to know about the 2023 Trialblazer and why cheaper isn’t always better.

The 2023 Chevy Trailblazer is the cheapest compact SUV

The modern-day Chevy Trailblazer was released for the 2021 model year as the revival of the old Trailblazer model from the early 2000s. While the old Trailblazer was a traditional truck-based SUV, the new Trailblazer is a crossover SUV.

For 2023, it is currently the cheapest compact crossover on the market. The 2023 Trailblazer starts at $23,395 and comes standard with a 1.2L turbo three-cylinder engine capable of producing 137 horsepower.

Due to the small engine in the Trailblazer, fuel economy is solid at an estimated 29 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. The Trailblazer comes standard with front-wheel drive, but can be had with all-wheel drive in higher trim levels.

Features for the 2023 Trailblazer include standard Apple Carplay and Android Auto integration, Bluetooth audio, a 7-inch touchscreen, and a wifi hotspot. Optional features include cruise control, automatic climate control, remote start, push-button start, wireless phone charging, and remote keyless entry.

Cheaper isn’t always better

Although the Chevrolet Trailblazer is the cheapest compact SUV, TrueCar lists the 2023 Kia Sportage as the compact SUV with the best value for the money. This is despite the fact that it is costs nearly $4,000 more than the Chevrolet Trailblazer.

The Kia Sportage is simply a better car in nearly every way compared to the Trailblazer. The Trailblazer’s three-cylinder engine is low-powered and anemic with an uncomfortable ride. The Kia Sportage, which has been completely designed for 2023 comes with a 187 horsepower four-cylinder engine which does handle better and gets nearly identical fuel economy.

The Sportage also comes standard with a bigger 8-inch touchscreen with an even bigger 12.3-inch touchscreen available. All in all, the Kia Sportage is simply a much better vehicle than the Chevrolet Trailblazer, and a much better value overall, even with the higher MSRP.