2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV marked a significant evolution for the Blazer nameplate, transitioning from its truck-based off-roader roots 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's design was characterized by a tall hood, a reimagined front end, and boomerang-shaped taillights, giving it a more assertive presence compared to other electric SUVs like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Kia EV6. The Blazer EV was available in LT and RS trims, each with distinct styling elements, and a forthcoming SS model promised even more unique features.

Inside, the Blazer EV offered a distinctive interior with large round air vents and a flat-bottom steering wheel, reminiscent of the gasoline Blazer and Camaro. While some interior components felt flimsy, the overall design was free from the piano-black plastic found in other brands. The RS and SS models featured optional red leather upholstery, adding a playful touch to the cabin. Despite some shortcomings, the Blazer EV's interior was mostly well-received, offering a more engaging atmosphere than its competitors.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90, on the other hand, exuded a luxury SUV vibe with its lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. Its sculptural sheet metal and athletic proportions contributed to a premium appearance. Inside, the CX-90's interior was elegantly designed, featuring polished metallic trim, Nappa leather with contrast stitching, and clearly marked switchgear. However, some ergonomic issues, such as a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate controls, detracted from the overall experience. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-90's interior was sophisticated and upscale compared to other midsize three-row crossovers.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV offered a range of powertrain options, including a single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) and a dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) configuration. The RWD models delivered 340 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, while the AWD models produced 288 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque. Interestingly, the dual-motor AWD had a lower output than the single-motor RWD, positioning it as the base offering. The Blazer EV SS performance model promised a dual-motor AWD powertrain 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 driving experience was characterized by strong acceleration, particularly in the AWD version, which provided better traction off the line. While it shared dimensions with the Cadillac Lyriq, the Blazer EV offered a different driving experience, focusing on handling rather than comfort. The suspension was stiff, making smooth roads feel rough, but the steering was precise. The Blazer EV also featured a steering-wheel paddle for adjusting regenerative braking, adding a level of driver involvement.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 offered three powertrain variants: the standard-output 3.3 Turbo, the high-output 3.3 Turbo, and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). The standard-output models produced 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, while the high-output version delivered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft (340 hp with premium gas). The power was transmitted through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system, which biased power to the rear wheels for improved dynamics. The CX-90's maximum towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms, and it offered various driving modes, including Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing.

Despite its impressive ride and handling, the CX-90's drivetrain refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behaviour shortly after start-up. The vehicle also suffered from a lack of isolation from noise and impact harshness, affecting overall refinement. However, the CX-90's suspension was firm and communicative, providing a dynamic driving experience. Switching between driving modes allowed for a more satisfying rhythm, with Normal mode offering smoother driving and a hint of Mazda's renowned dynamic character.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV's interior felt spacious, but its headroom and legroom were comparable to the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Kia EV6. It lacked the commanding driving position of a traditional SUV, and the high side sills and deep dashboard created a unique feel. The Blazer EV offered 722 litres of cargo space with the second row in place and 1,673 litres with the seats folded, which was less than the gasoline Blazer but more than the EV6. It featured a "presence activated" liftgate and ample small-item storage, though some controls were moved to the touchscreen.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior, in Signature trim, featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the climate control system was slow to cool the cabin, and the front-seat ventilation was ineffective. The panoramic sunroof provided natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed comfortable seating with height-adjustable armrests. The third row was best suited for children, and the CX-90's cargo space was practical, with 451 litres behind the third row and 2,129 litres with the second-row seats flattened.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV introduced a new Google-based infotainment system with built-in Google apps, such as Google Maps and Google Assistant. It eliminated standalone Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, offering deeper functionality for Android users. The Blazer EV featured a 17.7-inch touchscreen and an 11-inch digital instrument cluster, both with sharp graphics. The infotainment system included built-in route planning and over-the-air software updates. The Blazer EV also had a hands-free start sequence, marking a shift towards a high-tech feel.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only when using wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, requiring the use of a knob and buttons for the native Mazda Connect platform. The CX-90's voice recognition system was lacking, but a new Google built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display with helpful data.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV's crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication. It came with standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and reverse automatic braking. The Super Cruise hands-free driver assist system was standard on SS and optional on RS, providing hands-free driving assistance.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests. It offered a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trim levels added advanced features like steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids were effective, though some features, like speed reduction, could be irritating.