Chevrolet Trailblazer vs Chevrolet Bolt

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer marked a continuation of its sporty evolution, building on the aggressive styling that set it apart from its predecessors. The refreshed design featured thinner accent lights and a reshaped grille, enhancing its athletic appearance. Inside, the Trailblazer received a modern update with a new digital instrument panel and a larger 11-inch infotainment touchscreen, although the digital panel's fit within its enclosure left something to be desired. The materials used in the cabin were typical for its class, with harder plastics but adequately padded touchpoints. The interior layout bore a resemblance to the Volkswagen Taos, offering a cohesive design, while the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30 provided different stylistic approaches.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt retained a familiar look, with subtle styling changes that made it resemble a conventional gas-powered car. The single body style combined elements of a large hatchback and a subcompact SUV, prioritizing utility and interior space. The interior saw a more significant transformation, featuring a larger digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The push-button gear selector was relocated to the steering column, freeing up storage space. While the cabin was dominated by hard plastics, the RS trim offered Evotex synthetic leather with red stitching for a sportier touch. Despite its budget feel, the Bolt provided practical storage solutions and a flat floor for rear passengers.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered two powertrains, starting with a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT. This setup resulted in sluggish performance, with slow responses and a droning engine. The Activ-trim featured a more powerful 1.3-liter engine delivering 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Despite the increased power, acceleration remained underwhelming, with a 0-60 mph time exceeding nine seconds. Handling was average, prioritizing comfort over spirited driving, while road and wind noise were well-managed.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt introduced a new 65-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron phosphate battery pack, reducing costs and reliance on rare earth minerals. Its motor, borrowed from the Chevy Equinox EV, produced 210 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in the low seven-second range. This acceleration was quick compared to gas-powered subcompact SUVs, with immediate pedal response. The Bolt's ride was firm but not overly harsh, and its low center of gravity contributed to agile handling. The EPA estimated a range of 262 miles on a full charge, with improved charging speed and compatibility with various connectors.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer provided ample front space and excellent visibility, enhancing the sense of roominess. The interior featured practical storage solutions, including a wireless charging pad, cupholders, and a deep bin under the armrest. The front seats were comfortably padded, with heated options available on most trims. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom and headroom, accommodating adult-sized occupants and rear-facing infant seats. The Trailblazer offered 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space, nearly matching the Hyundai Kona, with a hands-free power liftgate for added convenience.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt offered an upright driving position with sufficient space for larger occupants, though taller drivers might desire more steering wheel extension. The rear seats provided ample headroom and thigh support, with a flat floor benefiting center-seat passengers. Cargo capacity was 16.2 cubic feet, with a large bin beneath the floor for additional storage. The rear seatbacks folded flat with the cargo floor, enhancing versatility. While lacking a frunk, the Bolt featured practical storage solutions, including a large bin with dividers, a floor tray, and a deep center armrest bin.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer came standard with an 11-inch infotainment touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system's responses were slightly delayed, but the display was well-placed for reduced distraction. Satellite radio was standard, though a subscription was required. The digital instrument panel provided clear graphics, but a native navigation system was absent. The base audio system performed adequately, with an optional Bose upgrade available for enhanced sound quality.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt featured an 11-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.3-inch center touchscreen, running on a Google-based operating system. Apple CarPlay and standalone Android Auto were not supported, requiring Bluetooth pairing for personal music libraries. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system, digital rear-view mirror, and wireless charging pad. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with logical menus and quick responses. The Bolt's navigation system assisted in finding charging stations and preconditioning the battery for optimal charging rates. Vehicle-to-load charging capability was also available.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer received high safety ratings, with five stars from NHTSA and "good" scores from IIHS. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The optional Driver Confidence package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control was available as a standalone option. The Trailblazer's safety features operated smoothly, though a head-up display would have been a welcome addition.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt's crash test results were pending, but it was expected to achieve high scores based on its platform. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitors. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system, digital rear-view mirror, and additional safety features. GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving system was available for an extra cost, offering advanced highway driving capabilities.