It may have gotten off to a bad start due to some unexpected software problems but the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV shouldn’t be dismissed by those looking for a new battery-electric vehicle. It’s offered in an unusually broad range of configurations that can fit a variety of different needs, as our reviewer Jeff Zurschmiede learned while spending a week behind the wheel.
The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV bears just a surface resemblance to the gas powered Blazer SUV.
The Blazer name goes back over 50 years for Chevrolet.
The first Blazers were modified four-wheel drive full-size pickup trucks that had removable hardtops over the bed area. In the 1980s, the company added the compact S-10 Blazers, which ended production in 2012. Chevrolet revived the Blazer name in 2019 with a somewhat lackluster crossover SUV to compete in the two-row midsize segment.
Now, there are two Blazers in the Chevrolet line-up, an all-electric version making its debut in the 2023 model-year.
A false start
Let’s get the bad stuff out of the way first. The launch of the Chevrolet Blazer EV ran into some high-profile problems early on. A handful of buyers not only reported trouble charging the vehicle but discovered a variety of issues with its infotainment system and even its window switches.
A flat floor adds to the roominess of the Blazer EV’s back seat.
It quickly became apparent that there were some serious software problems and, rather than trying to cover up the problems, Chevy issued a “stop-sale” late last year, ordering dealers to park the vehicles on their lots and wait for a fix before any more got into the hands of consumers.
The bowtie brand issued a major update last spring that allowed it to lift the stop-sale order and, we should stress, there have been no further reports of software problems since then. If anything, the Blazer EV has been generating strongly positive reports from owners – which matches our own experience during a week behind the wheel.
The basics
Buyers might spot some initial similarities between the Blazer and Blazer EV models. Both fall into the midsize category but those similarities don’t run deep.
The Blazer EV rides on a unique, skateboard-like platform.
Blazer EV is based on a unique, skateboard-like platform that underpins a number of other new General Motors battery-electric vehicles, including the more luxurious Cadillac Lyriq.
Compared to the conventional SUV, the all-electric Blazer is clearly the best of the modern Blazer models, combining a luxury interior with an advanced tech package and an enjoyable electric driveline.
Like other skateboard “architectures,” Blazer EV mounts batteries and drivetrain technology below the load floor. One of the surprising benefits of the GM design is its flexibility when it comes to powertrain options.
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Powertrain options
Chevrolet is bringing out two more versios for 2025, including the high-performance Blazer EV SS.
At launch, Blazer EV buyers had a choice of two different powertrain layouts: a rear-drive system making 340 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, or an all-wheel drive system rated at 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque.
The rear-drive version also came with a bigger battery, sized at 102 kWh rather than the 85 kWh battery in the AWD version. The result of that is an extended range of 324 miles with rear drive, but you still get a healthy 279 miles if you choose AWD.
The advantage of the rear-drive platform extends to charging. The rear-drive Blazer adds up to 80 miles of range in just 10 minutes when using a DC Fast Charger, while the AWD platform adds up to 68 miles of range in the same time. Oh, if you need to pull a trailer, the Blazer EV is rated up to 1,500 pounds towing capacity.
More packages coming
The Blazer EV offers up to 60 cf cargo space with the rear seats folded down.
Chevy this month announced it will soon begin rolling still more versions of the Blazer EV into U.S. showrooms. For the 2025 model-year it’s adding:
- The FWD Chevrolet Blazer EV makes 220 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque in front-drive LT trim. Range hasn’t been announced yet but it starts at $45,995;
- The Chevrolet Blazer SS is available only in AWD configuration, with individual motors on each axle. They produce a combined 595 hp and 645 lb-ft. The SS starts at $61,995.
Blazer EV technology
The Blazer EV is a great technology vehicle. It uses the single-screen idea, which is really two screens behind a single pane of glass. The driver’s side gives you a configurable information screen, while the 17.7-inch center touchscreen allows access to navigation and infotainment.
Standard safety equipment includes automatic high beams, lane keeping, following distance indicator, and more.
Like all versions of the 2024 Chevy Blazer EV, the RS comes with an 11-inch digital gauge cluster and a 17.7-inch infotainment screen.
There’s also GM’s optional Super Cruise, the system that lets a motorist drive hands-free on more than 200,000 miles of U.S. limited-access roadways.
Driving impressions
On the road, the Blazer EV is a heavy vehicle. You’ll notice the difference between this and the gas-powered Blazer, but it’s not a bad thing.
The battery weight makes the electric Blazer tip the scales at 5,337 pounds, versus 3,918 for the gas-powered Blazer. So, don’t expect sports car performance out of this EV. Still, it is smooth and pleasant to drive, and the electricity regeneration under braking works well.
The new Blazer EV gets up to 324 miles range, depending upon trim.
Pricing and availability
The 2024 Blazer with the RS AWD package starts at $56,200. Adding a few options like the convenience and driver confidence package runs the total price to $60,710. But that includes great features like a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, HD surround vision camera system and a camera-based rear-view mirror. You also get heated second-row seats with this package.
If you want to wait for the 2025 models you’ll have two more options, including the base 1LT FWD model at a more affordable $45,995.
Performance fans might hold out for the SS package which starts at $61,995.
The smaller Chevrolet Equinox EV provides a more affordable option for EV buyers.
Last words
The bottom line on a Blazer EV is that it’s nice, but expensive compared to competing electric SUVs like the Ford Mustang Mach-E.
If you test-drive the Blazer and like it, that’s great, but I’m more excited about the slightly smaller Equinox EV that will start at just $34,995 and deliver the same 288 horsepower in a front-drive package.
If you are looking to buy an electric SUV this year, I suggest shopping the Equinox EV over the Blazer EV.
Baseball hot dogs apple pie and chevrolet. Oh, don’t forget the pile of cash.