2024 Mazda CX-50 vs 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 presented itself as a more rugged alternative to the CX-5, with a design that was both broader and longer, emphasizing its robust stance. The Meridian Edition, in particular, enhanced this rugged image with all-terrain tires, a black hood graphic, and pronounced rocker-panel trim. Despite its adventurous appearance, the CX-50 did not include any suspension modifications or additional drive modes to improve off-road capabilities. The interior was well-crafted, with a pleasing design and high-quality materials, although it fell short of Mazda's upscale aspirations, as evidenced by the standard half-leatherette seats and manually adjustable passenger seat in the base model.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV marked a significant evolution for the Blazer nameplate, transitioning from a traditional SUV to a modern electric vehicle. Built on GM's Ultium platform, the Blazer EV featured a long wheelbase and a bold design with a tall hood and boomerang-shaped taillights. The interior offered a spacious feel, though it lacked the commanding driving position of a traditional SUV. The Blazer EV's cargo space was less than its gasoline counterpart, but it included a "presence activated" liftgate for convenience. The interior design was heavily stylized, with ample storage space and some controls moved to the touchscreen.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, available in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbocharged variant delivered up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. All models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, along with Normal, Sport, and Off-road driving modes. The turbo models also included a Towing mode, increasing towing capacity to 1,587 kilograms. The CX-50's driving experience was more aligned with its segment peers, offering a comfortable daily drive but lacking the sporty dynamics of the CX-5. The Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and reduced grip, making it less ideal for everyday driving.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV offered a choice between single-motor rear-wheel drive and dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrains. The RWD model boasted 340 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, while the AWD version had 288 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque. A forthcoming Blazer EV SS model promised even more power, with 557 hp and 648 lb-ft of torque. The Blazer EV excelled in acceleration, particularly the AWD version, which provided better traction. Its handling was precise, though the stiff suspension compromised ride comfort. The Blazer EV also featured adjustable regenerative braking, enhancing driver involvement.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom. It provided 889 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,595 litres with them folded, trailing behind most competitors. The available power liftgate improved cargo access, but the cargo area was not well-suited for bulky items. The interior layout was practical, with a substantial shifter and rotary infotainment controller on the centre console, maintaining a sensible design.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV's interior felt spacious, though 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 up and 1,673 litres with it folded, less than the gasoline Blazer but more than the EV6. The interior included ample storage, though some controls were moved to the touchscreen, requiring adjustment.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary controller and buttons, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Higher trims added wireless phone charging, SiriusXM, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The interface required some adjustment but offered physical feedback, making it easier to use without distraction. The system's graphics were basic, but the inclusion of smartphone connectivity mitigated this.

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 built-in route planning and over-the-air 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, enhancing its high-tech appeal.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. However, it received lower scores for nighttime pedestrian detection and standard headlights. NHTSA ratings were incomplete, but the CX-50 had a five-star frontal crash-test rating. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, with additional optional features available.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV's crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of publication. It 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 SS and optional on RS, providing advanced driver assistance capabilities.