When we caught wind that Chevrolet was affixing the Blazer name to an upcoming EV, we held our breath that it would be somewhat of an off-road-focused vehicle. Instead, we get this Mustang Mach E competitor that will be more at home in a drag strip or school pickup line than off the pavement. But is that a bad thing?
Personally, we would have loved it if they had used the Nomad name from the late 1950s. The long low roofline fits more with the style of the Nomad than what a Blazer has traditionally been. However, naming aside, this Blazer EV looks to be a very competent entry into the electric SUV market.
Thanks in part to the Ultium platform that underpins all General Motors electric vehicles, this Blazer EV’s trick feature is its very flexible drivetrain options. Available as a front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive, the Blazer EV can be built to suit your needs and driving style.
1LT and 2LT models come standard with a single-motor front-wheel drive setup touting an estimated 247 or 293-mile range, respectively. 2LT models do have an optional two-motor AWD setup. RS models, which will be the first to hit the streets, are the most complex as they offer all, front-, rear-, or all-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive models have the highest expected range at 320 miles, which is impressive for a 2023 model electric vehicle.
SS models come exclusively as dual-motor all-wheel drive. Power output is a Chevy-claimed 557 horsepower and 648 lb-ft of torque that is capable of making 0-60 mph runs of less than 4 seconds (according to Chevy). The range takes a hit for the performance intentions at a max of 290 miles of estimated range.
The model we investigated at the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show was the top-trim SS AWD model. Loaded with all the latest tech, our favorite feature from our quick glance at this pre-production unit was the freeform 17.7” infotainment screen (standard across all trims). The large irregular screen gives off a much more premium feel to the cabin.
Charging is available through an 11.5 kW onboard AC charging module for home and public charging. RS and SS models also allow for DC fast-charging up to 190kW, making refilling the “tank” a quicker process than lower trims.
Unfortunately, our time with this model was a superficial first look, but be sure to subscribe and follow along for our first chance to hop behind the wheel of this new EV from the Bowtie brand.
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