2023 Mazda CX-5 vs 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, continued to be a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV market. It was praised for its stylish design and high-quality materials, which gave it the feel of a small luxury SUV. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the model boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Mazda's decision to transition the CX-5 to the CX-50 was part of a broader marketing strategy, similar to Infiniti's renaming of its G37 sedan and coupe. The CX-5 was available in eight versions, with prices ranging from $26,700 to $41,655, depending on the trim and options selected.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV represented a significant evolution for the Blazer nameplate, transitioning from a truck-based off-roader to a car-based crossover and finally to an electric vehicle. Built on the General Motors Ultium platform, the Blazer EV featured a long wheelbase and a design that emphasized a more traditional SUV appearance. It launched in LT and RS trim levels, with a forthcoming SS model offering even more performance. The interior of the Blazer EV was designed to be fun and engaging, with options like red leather upholstery and a flat-bottom steering wheel. However, some interior components felt flimsy, and the vehicle lacked the cargo space advantages typically associated with electric powertrains.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, and a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that delivered up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The turbocharged engine provided a thrilling driving experience, with a firm and connected ride quality that emphasized Mazda's sporty brand identity. However, fuel economy was a concern, with the turbo model achieving 21.4 mpg in testing, below the EPA's 24 mpg estimate.

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. The RWD model produced 340 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, while the AWD version delivered 288 horsepower and 333 pound-feet of torque. A future SS model promised 557 horsepower and 648 pound-feet of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of under four seconds. The Blazer EV excelled on twisty roads with precise steering but sacrificed comfort due to its stiff suspension. The vehicle also featured adjustable regenerative braking, enhancing driver involvement.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's interior was updated for the 2022 model year, with improved front seats and a range of comfort features available in higher trims. However, the CX-5's interior space was limited, with a cramped back seat and modest cargo capacity of 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with them folded. The infotainment system lacked a touchscreen and voice recognition, making it less user-friendly compared to competitors.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV's interior felt spacious, but its cargo capacity was less than the gasoline Blazer, with 25.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 59.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Blazer EV lacked a frunk, unlike some competitors. The interior offered ample small-item storage, but some controls were moved to the touchscreen, requiring adjustment. The driving position was not as commanding as a traditional SUV, and the high side sills and deep dashboard created a unique driving experience.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display with sophisticated graphics but was criticized for its awkward physical controls and lack of voice recognition. The system required memorization and focus, making it less intuitive than touchscreens. Despite these drawbacks, the system offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system in higher trims.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV introduced a new Google-based infotainment system with built-in Google apps, including Google Maps and Google Assistant. It lacked standalone Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, offering deeper functionality for Android users but limited options for iOS users. The system featured a 17.7-inch touchscreen and 11-inch digital instrument cluster with sharp graphics. The Blazer EV also offered over-the-air software updates and a hands-free start sequence, enhancing its high-tech appeal.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard i-Activsense driver assistance technology, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a head-up display in higher trims. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, it lacked a warning for driving without headlights at night, a potential safety concern.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV's safety ratings were not available at the time of publication. It offered standard automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams. Optional features included reverse automatic braking and the Super Cruise hands-free driver assist system, which maintained speed and lane position using detailed maps and a driver-monitoring system.