2022 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was crafted as a distinct electric vehicle, diverging from the traditional styling of Volkswagen's gasoline models. It showcased a streamlined profile with wheels pushed to the corners, setting it apart from the more rugged appearance of the Tiguan and Atlas crossovers. The ID.4 was part of Volkswagen's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback. While it was designed to appeal to the North American market, its SUV-like styling was subtle, resembling more of a hatchback than a traditional SUV. The interior combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-forward aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. The base ID.4 Pro came with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette upholstery available in the Statement Package.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer, offered in Canada in LT, True North, Premier, and RS trims, boasted a design inspired by the Camaro. The RS trim, in particular, featured a sporty appearance with 20-inch wheels and a unique black trim design. Inside, the Blazer's cabin echoed the Camaro's style, with an 8-inch touchscreen and innovative climate controls. The interior was practical, with ample storage and a colour scheme that matched the exterior paint, adding sophistication. However, the use of hard plastics was noticeable, particularly on the upper door panels. The Blazer's design was appealing, but some elements, like the rear bumper trim, gave it an unfinished look.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel drive (RWD) version featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) version added a second motor for a total output of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The ID.4 was tuned for comfort, with a smooth ride and balanced handling, though it wasn't particularly sporty. Unlike many EVs, it didn't offer aggressive regenerative braking, opting for a more traditional driving experience.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer LT came with a standard 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Higher trims featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine with 308 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The RS trim included a dual-clutch AWD system. The Blazer RS felt firm and sporty in city and highway driving, but its performance on winding roads was less impressive. The V6 engine provided satisfying acceleration, but the nine-speed automatic transmission was slow to downshift. The Blazer's fuel efficiency was slightly below expectations, averaging 11.5 L/100 km in testing.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom than many competitor EVs, though legroom was average. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,818 litres with them folded. The ID.4 lacked a "frunk," but the interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility. However, rearward visibility was limited due to thick rear pillars. The ID.4 featured a unique twist-grip gear selector and standard heated steering wheel and front seats, which proved effective in cold weather.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer's interior was comfortable and practical, with black leather upholstery and red accents. The front seats offered power adjustment and heating, though they lacked thigh support. The Blazer featured dual-zone automatic climate control and ample storage space, including a large glove compartment and centre armrest bin. The rear seats were spacious and could slide to adjust cargo or passenger space. The Blazer's cargo area measured 864 litres, expanding to 1,818 litres with the rear seats folded. The power rear liftgate offered hands-free operation, though its success rate was inconsistent.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional 12-inch screen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The control setup relied on haptic touchpads, which were difficult to use without tactile feedback. The ID.4 also featured a natural-language voice-control system and the ID.Light, a light strip that communicated information to the driver. While some features felt gimmicky, the infotainment basics were well-executed, with a well-positioned touchscreen and easy-to-navigate menus.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer featured an 8-inch touchscreen with simple physical controls and innovative climate control systems. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with easy access to controls and settings. The Blazer's technology package included USB ports, a household-style power outlet, and a power rear liftgate with hands-free operation. The Blazer's infotainment system was straightforward and effective, providing a good balance of functionality and ease of use.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA for RWD versions. It offered a range of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The ID.4 also introduced Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, enhancing highway driving and safety.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came standard with the Chevy Safety Assist suite, including forward-collision alert, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. It also featured a rear-seat reminder system and Teen Driver technology. Available upgrades included a vibrating Safety Alert Seat, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Blazer's safety systems were effective and user-friendly, though its headlights didn't earn high ratings from the IIHS.