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Buying a subcompact SUV can be a daunting task, and with so many choices in the market, deciding can be tricky. However, subcompact SUVs are fantastic for individuals, couples, and small families who primarily traverse urban settings. Their small size, excellent visibility, and ample practicality are perfect for tight and crowded city environments. Two popular examples are the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer and the 2023 Nissan Kicks.
The 2023 Chevy Trailblazer is based on the first generation that debuted in 2020. The 2023 Nissan Kicks is also based on its first generation, which debuted in 2016. Interestingly, the 2023 Trailblazer is built by GM Korea in their Incheon plant. The 2023 Kicks is made in Mexico for the North American market.
Let's compare the 2023 Trailblazer vs. Kicks to see which is ahead in the running for the best subcompact SUV position. We'll check out their performance, safety, and interior attributes in this Chevrolet vs. Nissan matchup. And if you want to see the new Trailblazer in the metal, contact Jay Hodge Chevrolet in Sulphur Springs, TX.
Subcompact SUVs such as the 2023 Trailblazer and the 2023 Kicks are rated to seat up to five adults. However, four adults are typically more comfortable to carry on long trips. Occupants will undoubtedly find the 2023 Trailblazer's 98 cubic foot cabin more spacious than the 94 cubic foot cabin on the 2023 Kicks. Admirably, both subcompact SUVs offer 25 cubic feet of trunk space. You can flat fold the rear seats and the front passenger seat in the 2023 Trailblazer for more space.
The 2023 Trailblazer and the 2023 Kicks come with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ on all variants. Base spec variants receive a 7-inch touch screen, with an 8-inch unit on higher trims. Both subcompact SUVs also offer Bose speaker system upgrades, as well as wireless phone chargers. They also have single-zone automatic climate control and USB phone charging ports.
The 2023 Trailblazer offers a choice of two downsized and turbocharged 3-cylinder engines. The base engine is a 1.2-liter unit that develops 137 horsepower and sends it to the front wheels via a CVT gearbox. Then, there’s a 1.3-liter unit that generates an impressive 155 horsepower. This engine can be had with an all-wheel-drive system. Choosing the all-wheel-drive system also grants you an excellent nine-speed automatic gearbox. The turbocharged nature of the engine also lends itself well to cruising in town at lower revs, where you can ride a wave of torque rather than needing to rev the engine too high.
In contrast, the 2023 Kicks may offer a larger 1.6-liter 4-cylinder, but it's naturally aspirated. Hence, it only makes 122 horsepower. This goes to the front wheels via a CVT gearbox, and there's no all-wheel-drive option either. Independent testers have noted that the Kicks feels far more sluggish unless you rev the engine into its upper reaches, burning more fuel in the process.
Subcompact SUVs are very safe, and the 2023 Trailblazer and the 2023 Kicks are no exception. They both have six airbags, stability control, automated emergency braking, brake assist, and lane-departure warning as standard features. The 2023 Trailblazer adds lane-keeping assist and has adaptive cruise control as an option.
With powerful engines, more space, and a better standard safety kit, it’s the 2023 Trailblazer that wins this Chevrolet vs. Nissan shootout. It's a great choice, and if you don't believe us, contact Jay Hodge Chevrolet in Sulphur Springs, TX, to take a test drive.
