2021 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer was a striking vehicle that often drew comparisons to high-end models like the Lamborghini Urus, thanks to its aggressive styling and bold design elements. Its exterior featured a wedgy profile, slim-cut windows, and distinctive 20-inch wheels, all contributing to a memorable presence. The Blazer's design was a departure from Chevy's typically utilitarian SUVs, borrowing excitement from the Camaro with its snarling face and muscled body. However, the interior did not match the exterior's flair, with a low-rent feel and unsatisfactory materials that seemed out of place for its price range. The cabin was predominantly dark, with limited options for customization, and the seats lacked support, making the interior experience less appealing compared to its competitors.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC40 embraced a more traditional approach to design, closely resembling its gasoline-powered siblings. The XC40 Recharge maintained the same basic shape and structure, with subtle differences like a solid panel grille and unique badging to distinguish it as an EV. The exterior was well-crafted, with even gaps, glossy paint, and a quality finish. Inside, the XC40 showcased Volvo's Scandinavian design sensibility, offering an airy and roomy cabin despite its compact size. The interior was harmonious, with well-thought-out elements and a genuine luxury feel, positioning the XC40 as a premium SUV.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer offered two engine options in Canada, with a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine producing 227 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque as the base option. The preferred choice was the 3.6-litre V6 engine, delivering 308 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, providing a strong and agile driving experience. The Blazer's sport-tuned suspension, brakes, and steering worked in harmony, offering a surprisingly engaging drive reminiscent of a BMW. However, the transmission calibration had issues, with slow responses and a convoluted manual mode that detracted from the sporty promise. Fuel consumption ratings were average, with the AWD V6 drivetrain rated at 12.0 L/100 km city, 8.7 highway, and 10.5 combined.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge, on the other hand, was powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, driving two electric motors for a total of 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed the XC40 Recharge to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, making it a fast compact SUV. The Recharge featured regenerative braking and a one-pedal drive option, enhancing the driving experience and preserving battery charge. The XC40 Recharge's lower centre of gravity improved handling, and its suspension setup provided a stable and planted feel. Fuel efficiency was impressive, with a combined rating of 2.8 Le/100 km and a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer, as a two-row SUV, comfortably seated four passengers, with seats mounted lower into the floor for easy entry and exit. However, sightlines were poor due to the low roof height, though large side-view mirrors and optional rear-view camera improved visibility. The Blazer offered 1,818 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 864 litres when raised, providing ample room for various needs. With the trailering package, AWD, and V6 engine, the Blazer could tow up to 2,041 kilograms, making it a capable choice for those needing towing capacity.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and comfort features. The absence of a gasoline engine allowed for a front trunk, providing additional storage space. Inside, the cabin featured ample cubbies and nooks, with comfortable front seats and adequate rear seating for outboard passengers. The XC40 Recharge offered up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the second row folded and a towing capacity of 907 kilograms, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen running Chevrolet Infotainment 3, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G WiFi hotspot. The RS trim added features like wireless phone charging, adaptive cruise control, and the Safety Alert Seat. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with options for navigation, onboard apps, and cloud-based settings transfer. However, privacy settings for data collection were a concern for some users.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was loaded with tech, featuring a 9.3-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument panel with Android Automotive operating system. This included Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store, with Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth also available. The system supported over-the-air updates for both infotainment and vehicle software. However, the range and state of charge display, showing percentage rather than distance, was a point of contention for some drivers.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer offered a range of standard safety features, including forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams. It received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top "Good" ratings from the IIHS, though its headlights were rated "Marginal" and "Poor." The Blazer lacked semi-automated functions and rear emergency braking, but enhanced forward emergency braking was available on top trims.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with a comprehensive list of standard safety equipment. This included collision warning and avoidance, blind-spot information, lane keep assist, and a high-strength protective cage for the battery. The XC40 Recharge also featured Volvo's Connected Safety system, sharing road condition data with other connected vehicles for enhanced safety.