2025 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV marked a significant evolution for the Blazer nameplate, transitioning from its truck-based off-roader origins to a modern electric SUV. It retained some styling cues from the 2019 car-based crossover model, but was built on a new EV-specific platform. The Blazer EV was constructed around its battery pack, with a wheelbase similar to the Cadillac Lyriq, giving it a stretched appearance. Its design featured a tall hood, a scowling front end, and boomerang-shaped taillights, offering a more aggressive look compared to aerodynamic rivals like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Kia EV6. The Blazer EV launched in LT and RS trims, with distinct styling elements, and promised a forthcoming SS model with unique features.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe, available in XRT, Luxury, and Ultimate Calligraphy trims, debuted in 2024 with a chunky, boxy design and a long wheelbase. Its H-shaped LED headlamps and taillights fit Hyundai's design aesthetic, though the rear proportions were criticized. Each trim had specific wheels, with the XRT trim adding off-road features. Inside, the Santa Fe offered seating for seven, except in the Ultimate Calligraphy trim, which featured captain's chairs. The interior had good fit and finish, though some squeaks were noted. The Santa Fe's design emphasized practicality, with adjustable second-row seats and a spacious cargo area, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV offered a range of powertrain options, including a single-motor RWD with 340 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, and a dual-motor AWD with 288 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque. The RWD model had a 102-kWh battery pack, while the AWD came with an 85-kWh pack. A single-motor FWD option was planned for 2025, expected to be the most affordable and popular configuration. The Blazer EV SS performance model promised 557 hp and 648 lb-ft of torque, with a WOW launch mode for rapid acceleration. The Blazer EV's driving experience was characterized by strong acceleration and precise steering, though the suspension was stiff, affecting comfort.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe featured a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine with 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. AWD was standard across the lineup. The Santa Fe Hybrid offered a 1.6-litre engine combined with an electric motor, producing 231 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. The Santa Fe provided stable handling and responsive steering, though turbo lag and occasional transmission delays were noted. The XRT trim included off-road enhancements, such as 30-inch all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance, improving its off-road capabilities. However, it was not designed for rugged terrain, making it suitable for light off-road use.

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 unique feel. Cargo space was 722 litres with the second row in place and 1,673 litres with seats folded, less than the gasoline Blazer but more than the EV6. The Blazer EV lacked a frunk, unlike the Mach-E. Interior storage included a large phone parking area and a decent-sized centre console, though some controls were moved to the touchscreen.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe excelled in interior space, offering the most third-row legroom in its class. The second-row seats had adjustable cushion angles, and both the second and third rows could be folded for increased cargo space. With the third row folded, it offered 1,148 litres of space, expanding to 2,267 litres with the second row down. The rear opening was widened to 127.5 cm, making it easier to load large items. The Santa Fe's towing capacity varied by trim, with the XRT capable of towing up to 2,040 kilograms. The interior featured heated seats, a sunroof, and a 115-volt outlet, with additional amenities in higher trims.

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 and OTA updates. The user experience was generally good, though the touchscreen's angle was inconvenient for passengers. The Blazer EV also offered a hands-free start sequence, marking a shift towards a high-tech driving experience.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital gauge cluster, except for the base trim. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims included navigation and a digital rearview mirror. The Santa Fe featured multiple USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad. A digital key allowed unlocking and starting the car via a smartphone or Apple Watch. Bluelink app connectivity provided remote access to vehicle functions, and OTA updates ensured up-to-date software.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV's crash-test ratings were unavailable, but it included standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams. Super Cruise, a hands-free driver assist system, was standard on SS and optional on RS trims, offering advanced driving assistance.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and forward collision avoidance assist. Higher trims added features like rear parking collision avoidance assist and Highway Drive Assist. The Santa Fe received a four-star safety rating from NHTSA and a "Good" rating from IIHS, with some exceptions.