The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV, an electric crossover sharing its name with a gasoline counterpart, has finally arrived after much anticipation. Facing established competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Kia EV6, the Blazer EV enters the market with a range of configurations, starting with the RS model. While a base price of $44,995 is promised, the RS versions tested fall within the $60,000 range. This review explores the Blazer EV RS’s design, technology, driving experience, and key features to assess its competitiveness in the crowded electric SUV segment.
Design and Interior: A Bold SUV Statement
The Blazer EV departs from its boxy off-road heritage, embracing the sleek styling of its gasoline sibling. Built on a dedicated EV platform, the electric version appears longer and lower, with distinctive features like curvaceous fenders and an aggressive front fascia. This design contributes to a more authentic SUV appearance compared to the Mach-E and EV6, enhanced by its larger dimensions.
Inside, the Blazer EV distinguishes itself with a bolder approach. While the Mach-E and EV6 opt for minimalist interiors, the Blazer EV incorporates large round air vents, lightning bolt accents, and available red leather upholstery. Some elements, like the shifter stalk, feel underwhelming for the price point, but the overall aesthetic is undeniably unique and characterful. However, the spacious feel of the exterior doesn’t translate to significantly more interior room compared to its rivals. Headroom and legroom are comparable, and while cargo space slightly exceeds the EV6 with the rear seats up, it falls short of the Mach-E, especially considering the Ford’s frunk.
Technology and Infotainment: Google Takes Center Stage
The Blazer EV showcases Chevy’s latest infotainment system, featuring a 17.7-inch touchscreen and an 11.0-inch digital instrument cluster. The integration of Google Built-in functionality is a key element, but comes at the cost of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. The large touchscreen provides a tablet-like experience for Google apps, but its positioning and tilt can be awkward for both driver and passenger. Voice control and physical controls for climate and audio offer some mitigation.
Over-the-air (OTA) updates promise future feature enhancements, including advanced route planning with charging integration and battery preconditioning. While these functionalities weren’t tested during the initial drive, the current system performs adequately, though not drastically different from existing screen-based interfaces. Standard driver-assist features include automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and forward collision warning. Optional features include reverse automatic braking, park assist, and GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system.
Driving Experience: Performance and Handling
The Blazer EV offers a variety of powertrain options. The initial offering is a dual-motor all-wheel drive system with 288 horsepower and 333 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 85-kWh battery. Single-motor rear-wheel drive models, with a larger 102-kWh battery and 340 hp, are expected to follow. Future plans include a front-wheel drive LT and a high-performance SS variant with 557 hp.
The RS model delivers a respectable driving experience, though lacking the explosive acceleration seen in some competitors. The all-wheel drive version offers superior traction, while the rear-wheel drive model exhibited some power management challenges. Despite its size, the Blazer EV handles surprisingly well, exhibiting nimble cornering thanks to responsive steering and regenerative braking. However, the firm suspension compromises ride quality, transmitting road imperfections to the cabin.
Range, Charging, and Warranty: Key Considerations
Chevy estimates a range of 324 miles for the 102-kWh battery and 279 miles for the 85-kWh battery. While decent, these figures aren’t groundbreaking. The EV6 achieves similar range with a smaller battery. Fast charging is capped at 190 kW, allowing for a 78-mile range boost in 10 minutes for the larger battery. An 11.5-kW AC charger is available for home charging. Chevy offers an eight-year/100,000-mile battery warranty and a standard three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.
Conclusion: A Stylish Contender, But With Caveats
The Blazer EV makes a statement with its bold styling and unique interior, offering a compelling alternative to the more minimalist designs of its competitors. However, its pricing, especially for the RS model, is a significant hurdle. While it offers a competent driving experience, the firm ride may deter some buyers. The lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is another drawback. The Blazer EV’s ultimate success will likely depend on the performance and pricing of its upcoming variants, particularly the lower-cost models and the performance-oriented SS.
