Chevrolet has extended its electric vehicle range by introducing the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV, a midsize, two-row battery-powered SUV.
The Blazer EV is constructed on GM’s BEV3 platform, which is also utilized for the new 2024 Cadillac Lyriq EV. While the Blazer EV shares many specifications with the Lyriq, its appearance differs. It retains some similarities to the traditional combustion engine Blazer, but the EV version is more extended. Initially accessible in base LT and mid-level RS trims, a higher-powered SS model is set to be released.
Both the LT and RS models are offered in either all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive configurations. The all-wheel-drive LT and RS versions deliver 288 horsepower and 333 pound-feet of torque, while the rear-wheel-drive RS model boasts 340 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. The SS edition, with 557 horsepower and 648 pound-feet of torque, provides even greater power. The LT and all-wheel-drive RS models have a range of 279 miles, while the rear-wheel-drive RS and all-wheel-drive SS come equipped with a larger 102-kWh battery, granting the RS a range of 324 miles. The range of the SS model has yet to be disclosed.
The all-wheel-drive system of the Blazer EV leans towards front-wheel drive, whereas the SS model is equipped with robust motors on both front and rear axles. The RS variant offers GM’s SuperCruise autonomous driving system as an available feature, while it comes as standard on the SS model.
For an enhanced performance and enjoyable driving experience, the rear-wheel-drive RS rendition is recommended. Its broad stance and minimal body lean contribute to confident cornering with an enjoyable ride quality. The cabin is spacious, and the ride itself is smooth and refined. Notwithstanding, the front seats are critiqued for being flat and lacking bolstering for a sports-oriented vehicle.
Equipped with a modern instrument panel featuring circular air vents, a spacious infotainment system, and an 11-inch digital instrument cluster, the Blazer EV offers an enticing tech setup. Although its strong performance is praiseworthy, the starting prices of $57,710 for the LT AWD and $60,215 for the RS AWD may be considered steep for a Chevrolet, especially when compared to the similarly-sized Cadillac Lyriq EV, which commences at $58,590.
In summary, the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV emerges as a convincing option, notably due to its qualification for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit. It undoubtedly positions itself as a worthy competitor to the Cadillac Lyriq EV.
Image Source: quiggyt4 @ShutterStock
