2023 Ford Bronco vs 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

The 2023 Ford Bronco was a standout with its retro-cool styling and modern engineering, offered in nine distinct trim levels. Its blocky, upright shape, wide horizontal grille, and big round headlights were unmistakable, even from afar. The Base trim had a primitive, bare-bones look with steel wheels, while the Raptor trim showcased its top-tier status with a wide stance, elevated height, and massive fender flares. The Heritage trim added a nostalgic touch with a white grille, roof, and wheels, along with unique plaid seat upholstery. The Bronco's design was not just for aesthetics; functional elements like cleats above the headlights and raised "fins" helped secure cargo and provided better vehicle corner awareness. Inside, the rugged theme continued with a broad dash, sealed switches, and waterproof materials, making it easy to clean after off-road adventures. The interior was more about durability than luxury, with sturdy handholds and practical storage options.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV marked a dramatic evolution for the Blazer nameplate, transitioning from its truck-based off-roader roots to a modern EV platform. Built around the General Motors Ultium component set, the Blazer EV shared a long wheelbase with the Cadillac Lyriq, giving it a stretched appearance. Its styling, with a tall hood and boomerang-shaped taillights, gave it more attitude than rival electric SUVs. The Blazer EV launched in LT and RS trims, each with distinct styling elements, and a forthcoming SS model promised even more unique features. Inside, the RS and SS models offered a distinctive interior with large round air vents and a flat-bottom steering wheel, creating a fun atmosphere. While some interior parts felt flimsy, the Blazer EV mostly avoided the piano-black plastic trend.

The 2023 Ford Bronco offered three engine choices, starting with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, available with a seven-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission. The optional twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 increased power to 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, while the top-of-the-line Raptor featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with 418 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque. All Broncos came with four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case. The base four-cylinder engine was adequate for most drivers, while the 2.7-liter V6 suited the heavier four-door model. The Raptor's EcoBoost engine offered exhilarating power, though not necessary for most. The Bronco's ride quality was bouncier than typical SUVs but more stable than a Jeep Wrangler, with quieter interiors. Despite its high-riding dimensions, the Bronco felt confident on curving roads, aided by several cameras for maneuvering.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV offered a single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) and a dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) powertrain in the LT and RS trims. RWD models had 340 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque with a 102-kilowatt-hour battery pack, while AWD models had 288 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque with an 85-kWh pack. A single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) option was planned for 2025. The Blazer EV SS performance model promised 557 hp and 648 lb-ft of torque, with a WOW launch mode for rapid acceleration. The RWD and AWD versions of the Blazer EV RS offered strong acceleration, though the RWD model felt traction-limited. The Blazer EV excelled on twisty roads with precise steering but sacrificed comfort with a stiff suspension. Cabin noise was low, and the steering-wheel paddle allowed for adjustable regenerative braking, enhancing driver involvement.

The 2023 Ford Bronco's boxy shape provided ample interior space, with the four-door model offering easier access to rear seats. Up front, there were numerous storage options, including netted door pockets and a rubberized tray for phones. The two-door Bronco had up to 22.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 52.3 cubic feet with seats folded, while the four-door offered 35.6 cubic feet, expanding to 77.6 cubic feet. However, the rear seats didn't fold flat, creating a step-up that hindered sliding longer cargo. The Bronco's fenders and doors were easily removable, catering to hardcore off-roaders.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV's interior felt spacious, though headroom and legroom were similar to the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Kia EV6. The Blazer EV lacked a commanding driving position, and its high side sills and deep dashboard created a trench coat-like feeling. Cargo space was 25.5 cubic feet with the second row in place, expanding to 59.1 cubic feet with 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 Ford Bronco featured G.O.A.T. drive modes for off-road novices, optimizing engine and suspension settings for various terrains. Experienced off-roaders could manually select features like transfer case gearing and sway-bar disconnects. Numerous camera views aided in tight confines, and the Trail Turn Assist feature allowed for sharp turns. The Bronco's infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available 12-inch display for ease of use.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV debuted a Google-based infotainment system with built-in Google apps, eliminating standalone Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A 17.7-inch touchscreen and 11-inch digital instrument cluster were standard, offering sharp graphics and built-in route planning. The system supported over-the-air updates for new features. The Blazer EV introduced a hands-free start sequence, marking a shift toward a high-tech feel.

The 2023 Ford Bronco received partial crash-test ratings, with the four-door earning four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection from NHTSA. IIHS awarded it "Good" in most crashworthiness tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and hill-start assist. Optional packages added features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV's crash-test ratings were unavailable at publication. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist. Optional aids included reverse automatic braking and Super Cruise, a hands-free driver assist system.