2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV: A Perfect Blend of Efficiency and Style

• 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV: A Must-See for EV Enthusiasts

• Praising the Blazer EV’s Design, Efficiency, and Overall Quality

• Rear Seat Comfort Varies, and the iOS App Needs Improvement

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV stands out from other EVs, opting for a uniquely American design rather than the typical soap-bar shape seen in many electrics.

With a stylish exterior and a roomy, well-crafted interior, the Chevrolet Blazer EV has proven surprisingly efficient during a recent week-long road trip. However, it falls short in a few areas, such as the rear seat comfort, an inconsistent range display, and an underperforming iOS app.

Based on our test drive, here are the strengths and weaknesses of the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV.

Pro: Captivating Camaro-Inspired Design

The Blazer EV’s design evokes a Camaro influence, seamlessly blending sporty aesthetics with practicality. The striking front end features LED daytime running lights that accentuate the vehicle’s broad stance, while the taillights maintain a familial resemblance to the latest Traverse and Equinox models. These lights also double as charging indicators, illuminating as the battery replenishes. The overall sharpness and uniqueness of the design make it a standout.

Inside, the vehicle offers a captivating experience. My father remarked, “This is cool! It feels a bit like the Batmobile; there should be flames coming from the vents.” The RS trim’s red interior dazzles with shiny chrome accents, uniquely designed vents, a traditional volume knob, and climate control buttons, creating a familiar yet modern vibe that aligns with Chevrolet’s gasoline-powered models.

Con: Rear Seat Comfort Can Be Inconsistent

While the front seat is comfortable for my 5-foot-10 frame, family members found the rear seat lacking. With ample space for leg, knee, and headroom, the outboard seats seemed fine for me; however, both my mother and wife described the rear seat as uncomfortable. The lower portion of the rear seatback includes integrated child seat LATCH anchors that can split the seatback, creating discomfort for some passengers. Additionally, my wife found that the seatbelt mounting position hit her neck uncomfortably. The middle rear seat is narrow and not designed for comfort.

Pro: Impressive Efficiency

For larger EVs, a benchmark for great efficiency is 3.0 mi/kWh. The Blazer EV managed to achieve this in mixed suburban driving without focusing on keeping it efficient. On two lengthy highway trips exceeding 200 miles, it averaged 2.7 and 2.5 mi/kWh, respectively, while the cruise control was set over 70 mph, temperatures were in the mid to upper 70s, and climate control remained at 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Adverse weather, like strong winds and rain, negatively impacted the second trip’s efficiency.

Con: Inaccurate Range Estimation

Drivers should keep a close eye on the battery charge level instead of relying on the Blazer EV’s range display, which can be misleading. Unlike the Chevy Bolt EV, which provided accurate distance projections, this Blazer EV’s range figures seem more like educated guesses. The range announced often exceeds actual capabilities, likely influenced by recent driving behavior. Notably, integrated Google Maps for navigation recognized the real charge necessity for reaching my destination, even when the range display suggested I could make it.

Pro: Robust Build Quality

The Blazer EV exhibits strong build quality, with components feeling securely assembled. Panel gaps are minimal, doors close with a reassuring thud, and every control responds solidly without loose ends or creaks.

Con: Chevrolet’s iOS App Lags Behind

As vehicles become more software-dependent, the need for effective smartphone apps grows. Unfortunately, Chevrolet’s iOS app, which shares a lineage with the Cadillac and GMC versions, feels outdated compared to competitors like Rivian, Lucid, or Tesla. Upon opening the app, users often see outdated information about the vehicle’s status. Refreshing the app takes an unacceptably long time, and commands like unlocking or starting the vehicle experience noticeable delays.

Overall, despite the shortcomings of the Chevy iOS app, the Blazer EV offers a glimpse into Chevrolet’s electrified future—a future that feels familiar yet fresh, powered by batteries instead of gasoline. It’s a compelling option for those considering the Ford Mustang Mach-E or Tesla Model Y.

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2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV RS AWD

Base price: $58,590, including $1,395 destination fee

Price as tested: $60,710

Drivetrain: 288 hp combined, dual-motor AWD

EPA range: 279 miles

Key Strengths: Striking design, efficient performance, robust build quality

Weaknesses: Rear seat comfort issues for some passengers, range estimation inaccuracies, and a sluggish iOS app