2022 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was a testament to Volvo's approach of easing traditional car owners into the electric vehicle (EV) world without drastic changes. From the outside, it closely resembled its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart, maintaining the same basic shape and structure. The most noticeable difference was the solid panel in the grill, replacing the airflow-dependent design of the gas version. Subtle details like the enlarged fuel-filler flap, trim-specific alloy wheels, and the absence of tailpipes hinted at its electric nature. Inside, the XC40 showcased Volvo's Scandinavian design sensibility, offering an airy and roomy cabin despite its compact SUV classification. The harmonious design elements and premium finishes underscored its luxury status.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Blazer, available in LT, True North, Premier, and RS trims, offered a bold, Camaro-inspired design. The RS trim, in particular, stood out with its sporty appearance, accentuated by 20-inch wheels and a distinctive black trim. Inside, the Blazer mirrored its exterior's sporty vibe with black leather upholstery featuring red perforations. The cabin was equipped with practical features like dual-zone automatic climate control and ample storage options. However, the use of hard plastics and the short bottom cushions of the seats detracted from its overall comfort. The Blazer's design promised a dynamic driving experience, though it didn't fully deliver on that front.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was a powerhouse in the compact SUV segment, boasting a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack that powered two electric motors, delivering a combined 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque. This setup enabled the XC40 Recharge to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The regenerative braking system allowed for energy recapture, and the one-pedal drive feature maximized regenerative braking. The XC40 Recharge's low centre of gravity, due to the battery placement, contributed to its stable handling. It offered a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with a fuel efficiency rating of 2.8 Le/100 km combined.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer offered two engine options: a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 228 horsepower and a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 308 horsepower. The V6, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, provided decent acceleration but was often loud and unrefined. The Blazer RS, with its dual-clutch AWD system, offered a sporty driving experience, though it struggled with suspension and transmission responsiveness on challenging roads. The Blazer's fuel efficiency was rated at 11.0 L/100 km combined, but real-world testing showed a slightly higher consumption of 11.5 L/100 km.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions like a front trunk for storing the charging cable. Inside, the cabin featured ample cubbies and nooks, with comfortable front seats and slightly cramped rear seating. The XC40 Recharge provided up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer, while comfortable in typical driving situations, offered a spacious interior with black leather upholstery and red accents. The front seats featured power adjustments and heating, though they lacked thigh support. The Blazer's back seat was wide and flat, with adjustable tracks for added cargo or passenger space. The cargo area offered 864 litres of space, expandable to 1,818 litres with the rear seats folded. However, these numbers were small for a midsize SUV.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems, including Pilot Assist and a heat pump to extend its range. The infotainment system featured a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, running on the Android Automotive operating system. It offered seamless integration with Google services and over-the-air updates. However, the range reporting system, which displayed charge percentage instead of remaining kilometres, could induce range anxiety.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer featured a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen and physical controls. The RS trim offered a sporty cabin with power-adjustable front seats and dual-zone climate control. The Blazer's technology suite included standard driver-assistance features like forward-collision alert and lane-keep assist. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance worked well, though the Blazer's headlights didn't earn high marks from the IIHS.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge earned the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including collision warning, blind-spot information, and lane-keeping assist. The XC40 Recharge also featured a new sensor platform for enhanced active safety and Volvo's Connected Safety system for sharing road condition data with other connected vehicles.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came standard with the Chevy Safety Assist suite, offering features like forward-collision alert, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. The Blazer also included a rear-seat reminder system and Teen Driver technology. Available upgrades included a vibrating Safety Alert Seat and adaptive cruise control. However, the Blazer's headlights didn't earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.