2023 Toyota RAV4 vs 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 maintained its rugged design, reminiscent of the 2019 model, with the Trail trim standing out due to its distinctive two-part face. This trim featured a more aggressive grille, blacked-out wheels, and additional black cladding, giving it a sporty appearance. However, despite its off-road-inspired look, it was more of a style statement than a true off-roader. Inside, the Trail trim added orange accents and contrast stitching, enhancing the otherwise basic interior. The RAV4 offered a range of trims, from the entry-level LE to the more luxurious Limited, with varying levels of upholstery and seat adjustability, culminating in the Limited's premium features like heated and ventilated seats.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV marked a significant evolution for the Blazer nameplate, transitioning from its truck-based roots to a modern electric SUV. Built on GM's Ultium platform, the Blazer EV shared its wheelbase with the Cadillac Lyriq, giving it a stretched appearance. Its bold design, with a tall hood and boomerang-shaped taillights, set it apart from more aerodynamically styled rivals like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Kia EV6. The Blazer EV launched with LT and RS trims, each offering unique styling elements, while the forthcoming SS trim promised even more distinctive features. Inside, the Blazer EV's cabin featured large air vents and a flat-bottom steering wheel, with optional red leather upholstery adding a touch of flair.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came standard with all-wheel drive across all trims, powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which, while preferable to a CVT, did not enhance acceleration. The RAV4's performance was more practical than thrilling, with a focus on reliability and noise reduction. The Trail trim, with its 19-inch wheels and all-season tires, shared the same suspension setup as other RAV4 models, offering a balanced ride.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV offered a choice between a single-motor rear-wheel drive and a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain. 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. The Blazer EV's performance was notable for its strong acceleration, particularly in the AWD model, which provided better traction. The forthcoming SS model promised even more power, with 557 hp and 648 lb-ft of torque, capable of accelerating from zero to 96 km/h in under four seconds. The Blazer EV's ride was firm, prioritizing handling over comfort, with precise steering and adjustable regenerative braking enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 offered seating for five, with front-row headroom of 958 mm and rear headroom of 1,001 mm. While it provided ample rear headroom, it fell short in front-row space compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester. Legroom measured 1,039 mm in the front and 960 mm in the rear, placing it in the middle of the pack. The RAV4 excelled in storage, with 1,059 litres of cargo space behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded. It also featured convenient storage options for front passengers, including a shelf and generous door pockets.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV, despite its SUV appearance, offered interior dimensions similar to the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Kia EV6. It lacked the commanding driving position of traditional SUVs, with high side sills and a deep dashboard creating a unique cabin feel. Cargo space was limited to 722 litres with the second row in place and 1,673 litres with the seats 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 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen as standard, upgraded to a 10.5-inch screen in the Limited trim. The system supported over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Limited trim also featured an 11-speaker JBL audio system and a 12.3-inch driver-information display. Both the Trail and Limited trims included a wireless charging pad, enhancing convenience.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV debuted 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 an 11-inch digital instrument cluster, offering sharp graphics and built-in route planning. The system supported over-the-air updates, promising new features over time. The Blazer EV also introduced a hands-free start sequence, allowing drivers to start the vehicle by pressing the brake pedal, marking a shift towards a high-tech driving experience.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The updated TSS 2.5 suite added Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The RAV4 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, reflecting its strong safety performance.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV included standard safety features such as automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The Super Cruise hands-free driver assist system was standard on the SS trim and optional on the RS. While crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication, the Blazer EV's safety features were in line with industry standards.