2021 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer had a striking exterior that often drew comparisons to high-end vehicles like the Lamborghini Urus. Its wedgy profile, slim-cut windows, and aggressive front end with thin lights and a tall, black grille gave it a memorable presence. The Blazer's design was a significant departure from Chevy's typically utilitarian SUVs, borrowing elements from the Camaro to create a sporty, eye-catching look. However, the interior did not match the exterior's flair, featuring low-rent materials and an all-black cabin unless specific exterior colors were chosen. The seats were unsupportive, and the overall quality felt below par for its price range.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia EV6 offered a sportier and more svelte design, reminiscent of the Ford Mustang Mach-E. Its lower and wider stance, highback tail with a lip spoiler, and wheels pushed to the corners of the chassis gave it a dynamic look. The EV6's interior was equally impressive, featuring dual 12-inch screens, a floating center console, and seats covered in suede and leather. Ambient lighting and futuristic design elements added to its appeal. The EV6's design was not just about aesthetics; it also provided a spacious and comfortable cabin, although cargo space was somewhat limited.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer offered three engine options, all paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The base 2.5-liter inline-four engine, available on the L and 1LT trims, was underpowered with 193 horsepower and 188 pound-feet of torque. The 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine, standard on the 2LT, 3LT, and Premier trims, provided a more acceptable 227 hp and 258 lb-ft. The preferred engine was the 3.6-liter V6 on the RS trim, delivering 308 hp and 270 lb-ft. The RS trim also featured a sport-tuned suspension, brakes, and steering, making it the most engaging to drive. However, the transmission's slow responses and lack of paddle shifters detracted from the overall driving experience. Fuel economy was average, with the AWD V6 achieving 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly the GT-Line e-AWD model, offered a powerful and exhilarating driving experience with its dual electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds. The EV6's handling was impressive, with torque routed quickly and effectively, providing a smooth and responsive drive. The regenerative braking system offered multiple settings, including a one-pedal driving mode. However, the EV6's driving range was disappointing in cold weather, achieving only 65 percent of its 274-mile EPA estimate. Charging times varied, with the EV6 capable of accepting up to 240 kW, but real-world charging speeds were often lower.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer comfortably seated four passengers, with low-mounted seats making entry and exit easy. However, sightlines were poor due to the low roof height and aggressive design. Cargo space was adequate, with 64 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded and 30 cubic feet when raised. The Blazer's trailering package allowed it to tow up to 4,500 pounds. Interior controls were user-friendly, with features like movable rings around the air vents serving as temperature dials and a hands-free power tailgate.

The 2022 Kia EV6 provided generous legroom and headroom in all seating positions, thanks to its low floor. The rear seats could recline and had optional heated cushions, creating a comfortable and airy cabin. However, cargo space was limited, with only 24 cubic feet behind the seats and 50 cubic feet when folded. The EV6's towing capacity was 2,300 pounds. Unique features included door handles that popped out when the key was near, a twisting rotary shifter, and a combined climate and stereo control touchscreen.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer came with an 8-inch touchscreen running Chevrolet Infotainment 3, which included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The RS trim added features like wireless phone charging, LED headlights, 360 cameras, and adaptive cruise control. The infotainment system offered a "Plus" version with navigation, 4G WiFi, and onboard apps. Driver assists were standard on most trims, including forward automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured a user-friendly infotainment system with dual 12-inch screens, although wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a wired connection. The EV6 included advanced driver assists like Highway Driving Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered a 14-speaker Meridian stereo and a remote parking system. The head-up display used augmented reality to show directional arrows and track cars in front.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer received an overall five-star rating from the NHTSA and top "Good" ratings from the IIHS in all crash tests. However, it received "Marginal" and "Poor" ratings for headlights. Standard safety features included a driver's knee airbag and enhanced forward emergency braking on top trims.

The 2022 Kia EV6 had not been tested by U.S. safety organizations at the time of writing. However, it came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane-keeping, cyclist and pedestrian detection, front and rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver attention monitor. Higher trims added features like automatic rear braking and evasive steering assist.