2023 Buick Encore GX vs 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

The 2023 Buick Encore GX departed from Buick's storied design history, presenting a style that didn't echo the brand's past nor forge a new path. Its rounded exterior and tall stance resulted in awkward proportions that failed to capture the SUV allure that has drawn many buyers to this segment. Even with the optional Sport Touring Package, which added subtle enhancements like different bumpers and a black mesh grille, the changes were barely noticeable unless compared directly to a standard model. Inside, the Encore GX Essence trim offered expected features like leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control, but the abundance of plastic reminded occupants of its position at the lower end of Buick's lineup. The dashboard and door panels, reminiscent of 1990s design, lacked interest, though the instrument cluster stood out with its well-framed digital display.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV represented a bold evolution for the Blazer nameplate, combining elements from its gasoline counterpart with a new EV-specific platform. Built around the GM Ultium battery pack, the Blazer EV shared a long wheelbase with the Cadillac Lyriq, though its proportions made it appear more elongated. Its design, featuring a tall hood and boomerang-shaped taillights, gave it a more aggressive stance than other electric SUVs like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Kia EV6. The Blazer EV launched with LT and RS trims, each with distinct styling cues, and promised a forthcoming SS model with unique mechanical elements. Inside, the RS and SS trims offered a more engaging cabin with optional red leather upholstery and large round air vents, though some interior components felt flimsy. The Blazer EV's interior was mostly free of the piano-black plastic seen in other brands, adding to its appeal.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX in Canada came with a 1.3-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Despite its modest specs, the Encore GX felt stronger than expected, though power delivery was not smooth, requiring a patient driving style. The ride was comfortable, with a quiet cabin thanks to Buick's Quiet Tuning package, but the driving experience was marred by slow steering and significant body roll, making it feel ponderous.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV offered a choice between a single-motor rear-wheel drive and a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain in its LT and RS trims. The RWD model delivered 340 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, while the AWD version offered 288 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque. A future SS model promised 557 hp and 648 lb-ft of torque, with a WOW launch mode for rapid acceleration. The Blazer EV excelled in handling, with precise steering and a stiff suspension that compromised comfort. It featured a steering-wheel paddle for adjustable regenerative braking, enhancing driver involvement.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered competitive passenger space, with headroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. However, the Kia Seltos provided more rear legroom and cargo space. The Encore GX's cargo capacity was respectable, with 665 litres behind the rear seats and 1,422 litres with them folded. The front seats were positioned close together, reducing spaciousness, and lacked thigh support. Small-item storage was well-executed, with large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless charging pad. The instrumentation was clear, though a button for the 360-degree camera view was missed.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV's interior felt spacious, though headroom and legroom were similar to the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Kia EV6. It lacked the commanding driving position of traditional SUVs, and the high side sills and deep dashboard created a cocooned feeling. Cargo space was 722 litres with the second row in place and 1,673 litres with them folded, less than a gasoline Blazer but more than an EV6. The Blazer EV featured a "presence activated" liftgate and ample small-item storage, though some controls were moved to the touchscreen, requiring adjustment.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came with a standard 8-inch touchscreen and 4.2-inch driver information display, with optional navigation, head-up display, and Bose audio system. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM radio. The interface was user-friendly, with clear graphics, though the screen size was modest by current standards.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV introduced a Google-based infotainment system with built-in Google apps, eliminating standalone Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It featured a 17.7-inch touchscreen and 11-inch digital instrument cluster with sharp graphics. The system included route planning with charging station integration and OTA updates. The user experience was generally positive, though the touchscreen's angle and placement of some controls required adjustment. The Blazer EV also offered a hands-free start sequence, marking a shift towards a high-tech driving experience.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX included standard driver assistance features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane keep assist. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system. It received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS 2022 Top Safety Pick.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV's safety features included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist. Super Cruise was standard on SS and optional on RS trims. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.