SUVs are not a one-size-fits-all situation. Subcompact SUVs need an upscale interior, tons of features, and to be more spacious than their title suggests. Which new Chevy subcompact SUVs impressed the experts at Consumer Reports? The 2022 Chevy Trailblazer is the only Chevrolet model to receive the highly-coveted “recommended” label.

Consumer Reports recommends the 2022 Chevy Trailblazer

Consumer Reports tested the 2022 Chevy Trailblazer and decided it had what buyers needed. CR gave it one of the highest scores in its class, starting with the road test. Overall, it ranked third behind only the Subaru Crosstrek and Nissan Rogue Sport. In addition, it’s one of only six recommended subcompact SUVs out of 13 tested models. Among those tested is a second Chevy subcompact SUV, which didn’t do as well.

Many things make the Trailblazer a recommended model. Mainly, it’s the perfect predicted reliability score, ample interior space, excellent fuel economy, and intuitive controls. Moreover, the mid-range torque the Trailblazer supplies is surprisingly satisfying. As a non-hybrid, it’s nice that the Chevy subcompact gets 19 city and 37 highway mpg on average, according to CR.

Other Chevy subcompact SUVs fail to impress Consumer Reports

In the subcompact SUV segment, various automakers have plenty of offerings. However, Chevy only has one other model available in the same class as the Trailblazer. Furthermore, the 2022 Chevy Trax failed to receive a recommendation from CR. Since it’s from the same automaker, you might expect it to resemble its sibling. What’s wrong with the Trax that doesn’t make it worth buying?

Firstly, the Trax also scored perfectly for predicted reliability from CR. However, its predicted owner satisfaction is the lowest possible. Trax owners reported that they would not buy the car again if given the opportunity. Most cited a low level of comfort, a poor driving experience, and some even disliked the value and style of the Trax.

Next, CR provided a laundry list of negatives about its experience with the less impressive Chevy subcompact SUV. For example, it only gets 25 combined mpg, the ride is uncomfortable, the interior is missing many features, low visibility, the front seats are unsupportive, and the touchscreen infotainment system is “infuriating.” In short, the Trax has many problems that make drivers dislike their experience using it.

Consumer Reports loves the 2022 Chevy Trailblazer

As the third-ranked overall subcompact SUV, Consumer Reports loves the 2022 Chevy Trailblazer. Chevrolet’s offering has a lot going for it, including being cheaper than many rivals. For example, a base model Trailblazer starts at $21,800. That’s less than the base model of both class leaders. The Crosstrek starts at over $23,000, and the Rogue Sport over $24,750. CR likes that it’s surprisingly well-equipped for the price.

Buying the base LS trim gets owners a lot more than you might expect. Furthermore, a Wi-Fi hotspot, a seven-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, forward collision mitigation, lane keeping assist, and automatic high beams are standard. Upgrading to the LT trim remains under $25,000. However, it unlocks more features, like roof rails, LED foglights, heated mirrors, keyless entry, push-button ignition, cruise control, remote ignition, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated front seats.

In conclusion, according to Consumer Reports, the 2022 Chevy Trailblazer is the best Chevy subcompact SUV. Of the two Chevrolets in the segment, it’s the only one to receive a recommendation from the experts. With similar prices and features, it’s surprising the Trax failed to impress CR. Consumer Reports only recommends one Chevy subcompact SUV, the 2022 Chevy Trailblazer.