Let’s not sugarcoat it. The launch of the 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV was a spectacular faceplant. What was supposed to be GM’s electric middle finger to the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Hyundai Ioniq 5 instead became a cautionary tale about shipping software that wasn’t ready for prime time. Journalists got stranded. Reviews were scathing. Sales were halted faster than you can say “blue screen of death.”
But here’s the twist: GM stopped the line. They issued a stop-sale, went back to the lab, and are now re-releasing it as a 2025 model. So, is this a phoenix rising from the ashes, or just a repackaged disaster? We’ve been talking to engineers, digging into the updates, and watching every single early test drive to see if Chevy can actually pull this off.
Under The Hood: Ultium’s Promise vs. Reality
The 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV sits on GM’s much-hyped Ultium platform. On paper, it’s brilliant: a flexible skateboard architecture with big range and wowzy performance. In its initial execution, it was a buggy mess.
Powertrains: The lineup itself is still compelling. You’ve got the base 1LT with FWD and 247 miles of range, the popular 2RS AWD with 279 miles, and the range-topping, tire-shredding SS model that pumps out 557 horsepower and does 0-60 in under 4 seconds, making it a direct shot across the bow of the Mustang Mach-E GT.
The Software Redemption Arc: This is the entire story. The 2025 model’s biggest “new feature” isn’t more power—it’s stable software. GM has essentially performed a brain transplant, moving from the glitchy, Frankenstein’s monster of old code to a new, unified software stack based on Android Automotive OS. Early reports suggest the laggy, crash-prone 17.7-inch infotainment screen is now responsive and logical. The keyless entry actually works. The super-fast 190 kW DC charging should now be reliably accessible.
Design: It’s Sharp, But Is It A Blazer?
Let’s be clear: this ain’t your grandpappy’s K5 Blazer. This is a modern, sleek, and kinda aggressive midsize crossover.
Exterior: It’s all sharp creases, a blanked-off grille (with a cool illuminated Chevrolet emblem), and a fast-roof profile. The RS trim looks the part with blacked-out accents and aggressive wheels. The SS takes it further with a functional rear spoiler, performance brakes, and unique badging. It’s a good-looking SUV, even if the name feels a bit borrowed.
Interior: Here’s where opinions split. The cabin is modern and minimalist, dominated by that massive center screen and a interesting “circular vent” design. Materials are a mixed bag—nice on the top trims, predictably plasticky lower down. It’s a far cry from the simple, rugged interior of the ICE Blazer, leaning hard into a techy vibe.
The Competition: A Murderer’s Row of Electric All-Stars
The 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV isn’t entering an empty field. It’s stepping into a gladiator arena.
H2: The Competition: A Murderer’s Row of Electric All-Stars
The 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV isn’t entering an empty field. It’s stepping into a gladiator arena.
| Competitor | The Threat They Pose |
|---|---|
| Ford Mustang Mach-E | The established player. Great driving dynamics, BlueCruise hands-free tech is superb, and it has that pony car allure. |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 / Kia EV6 | The design and charging champs. Their 800V architecture allows for even faster charging speeds, and their interior space utilization is witchcraft. |
| Tesla Model Y | The sales juggernaut. The benchmark for range, charging network access, and performance per dollar. The interior is… minimalist to a fault. |
| Volkswagen ID.4 | The value play. It’s not exciting, but it’s comfortable, practical, and often available with hefty incentives. |
The Blazer EV’s advantage was supposed to be its combination of performance, style, and GM’s dealer network. Now, its biggest advantage needs to be that it’s finally fixed.
The Blazer EV’s advantage was supposed to be its combination of performance, style, and GM’s dealer network. Now, its biggest advantage needs to be that it’s finally fixed.
Behind the Wheel: What Are They Saying Now?
The second wave of reviews is crucial. The first wave was a disaster. The second wave is… cautiously optimistic.
Out of Spec Reviews: (Kyle Conner) was one of the first to experience the original’s failures. His follow-up take: “The hardware was always good. The software was the problem. If GM has truly fixed the software, this becomes a very compelling option again, especially the SS model’s performance.”
Throttle House: “The Blazer EV SS is an absolute rocket ship. It’s hilariously fast. But the question remains: is it fun? The steering is meh, and it feels heavy. It’s a straight-line beast, not a corner carver like a Mach-E Performance.”
SavageGeese: “The interior design feels forced. They tried to be different for the sake of being different, and some of the controls, like the steering wheel buttons and the column-mounted shifter, are a miss. The fix is in the software, but the ergonomic quirks remain.”
Alex on Autos: “For families, the practical stuff is great: plenty of rear seat space, a large trunk, and now (hopefully) a usable infotainment system. Its value proposition against a Model Y is still tough, but it’s a more conventional SUV feel.”
Should You Even Consider It?
This is the million-dollar question.
Maybe consider the 2025 Blazer EV if:
You’re a GM loyalist who wants an electric SUV that isn’t a Cadillac or a Hummer.
You were intrigued by the SS’s bonkers performance specs and are willing to be an early adopter of the fixed version.
You get a absolutely stellar deal. GM and dealers will be highly motivated to move these units and rebuild trust, which could mean discounts and incentives.
Run away and buy something else if:
You need a car right now and can’t afford to be a beta tester. Get a Mustang Mach-E, an Ioniq 5, or even a Model Y. They are known quantities.
The memory of its botched launch gives you PTSD. You just won’t be able to trust it.
You want the most engaging driver’s car. The Blazer EV, especially in SS trim, is fast in a straight line but doesn’t communicate with the driver like its competitors.
The 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV is the ultimate mulligan. It has the hardware to be a winner. Now, it’s all about whether GM’s software engineers have truly earned their paychecks. The story is no longer about specs; it’s about redemption. And that’s a far more interesting story to watch.