2025 Ford Explorer vs 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV marked a significant evolution for the Blazer nameplate, transitioning from its truck-based origins to a sleek, car-based crossover. This electric version retained some styling cues from the 2019 model but was built on a new EV-specific platform. The Blazer EV featured a tall hood, a distinctive front end, and boomerang-shaped taillights, giving it a bold presence compared to other electric SUVs. It was notably larger than competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Kia EV6, emphasizing its SUV-like appearance.

The Blazer EV launched with LT and RS trims, each offering unique styling elements. The LT had a color-coordinated front fascia, while the RS featured a blacked-out design. The interior of the RS and SS models included large round air vents and a flat-bottom steering wheel, with optional red leather upholstery adding a playful touch. Despite some flimsy interior parts, the Blazer EV mostly avoided the overuse of piano-black plastic seen in other brands.

The 2025 Ford Explorer continued its evolution with a refreshed design, maintaining its rear-wheel-drive platform for balanced proportions. The updated front end gave it a wider, more rugged look, while new LED taillights and wheel designs enhanced its appeal. Inside, the Explorer saw significant improvements in materials and design, making it competitive in its segment.

Ford streamlined the Explorer's trim levels, offering four options: Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST. Prices ranged from $39,755 to $55,505, excluding destination charges. During a driving event in Michigan, the ST-Line with RWD and additional packages showcased its capabilities, priced at $50,340 with destination charges included.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV offered a range of powertrains, including a single-motor RWD with 340 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, and a dual-motor AWD with 288 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque. The RWD model featured a 102-kWh battery, while the AWD had an 85-kWh pack. A future Blazer EV SS model promised 557 hp and 648 lb-ft of torque, with a WOW launch mode for rapid acceleration. The Blazer EV excelled on twisty roads with precise steering but sacrificed comfort due to its stiff suspension. Regenerative braking was adjustable via a steering-wheel paddle, enhancing driver involvement.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engines: a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 with 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque for the ST and optional on Platinum. All models had a 10-speed automatic transmission and RWD, with 4WD as an option. The Explorer's turbo four provided quick acceleration, while the V6 delivered impressive power and a pleasant sound. The ST-Line's performance was enhanced with larger wheels and brakes, offering a delightful ride on winding roads.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV's interior felt spacious, though headroom and legroom were similar to rivals like the Mach-E and EV6. Cargo space was 25.5 cubic feet with the second row up and 59.1 cubic feet with it folded, less than the gasoline Blazer but more than the EV6. The Blazer EV lacked a frunk but featured a "presence activated" liftgate. Interior storage included a large phone space and center console, though some controls were moved to the touchscreen.

The 2025 Ford Explorer seated six in its standard configuration, with an optional second-row bench for seven. The ST-Line featured comfortable front seats with heating and massage functions, while the second-row captain's chairs offered similar comfort. The third row was less accommodating for adults. Cargo space was competitive, with 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet behind the second, and 85.8 cubic feet maximum. A new dashboard tray housed a wireless charger.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV introduced a Google-based infotainment system with built-in apps like Google Maps and Assistant. It lacked standalone Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, focusing on Android users. A 17.7-inch touchscreen and 11-inch digital cluster offered sharp graphics, with built-in route planning and OTA updates. The hands-free start sequence marked a shift towards a high-tech feel.

The 2025 Ford Explorer featured the Ford Digital Experience with a 12.3-inch digital panel and 13.2-inch touchscreen. It included Google Built-in, Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A 5G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and web browser apps were available. The B&O sound system varied by trim, with the ST-Line offering 10 speakers and higher trims boasting 14 speakers and 980 watts.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV came with standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams. Optional features included reverse automatic braking and Super Cruise, a hands-free driver assist system. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of publication.

The 2025 Ford Explorer included Ford CoPilot 360+ with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. Higher trims added a surround-view camera and BlueCruise, Ford's hands-free highway driving system. BlueCruise performed well in testing, though it occasionally struggled with large trucks. NHTSA ratings were incomplete, but the Explorer earned five-star side-impact and four-star rollover ratings.