Chevy recently invited us to Charlotte to test out the new Chevy Blazer SS EV, a mid-sized SUV with over 600 horsepower hidden beneath its sleek exterior. This electric beast is not only the fastest ‘SS’ model Chevy has ever produced but also comes packed with features like the SuperCruise system, giving it an edge over competitors like Tesla’s Model Y and Ford’s Mustang Mach-E GT.
Our experience with the Blazer SS started on the track, where we pushed the SUV to its limits with 3.4-second 0-60 times and impressive handling. While we didn’t quite hit the advertised quarter-mile time of 11.8 seconds at 115mph, we have no doubt the Blazer SS is capable of it with the right tires.
But the Blazer SS isn’t just a straight-line performer; it also shines on the track. With massive 22-inch tires, a 102kWh Ultium battery, and a long wheelbase, the Blazer feels planted and stable through corners, setting it apart from its competitors.
Moving to the interior, the Blazer SS sports a sporty and modern design, with unique jet-engine-like vents and a Google-based center stack system. The seats are comfortable, and the wrap-around screens and heads-up display are impressive. However, there are some minor issues with the system lagging, especially when using Supercruise on backcountry roads.
One of the standout features of the Blazer SS is its range, boasting an EPA-estimated 303 miles on a single charge from its 102kWh battery. This puts it ahead of rivals like the Mustang Mach-E and Tesla Model Y in terms of both speed and range. Charging at 190kWh is respectable, but we can’t help but wonder how an 800V architecture could have improved charging speeds.
Overall, we were pleasantly surprised by the Chevy Blazer SS. The combination of comfort, performance, and range make it a compelling option for those coming from a Model Y and looking for something different. The exterior design is sleek, the power delivery is exhilarating, and the price is competitive. We would definitely recommend the Blazer SS to anyone in the market for a mid-sized electric SUV.
