Should You Buy a 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS?

The 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS offers high-level performance and a driving experience worthy of its badge, but its bulky size does not translate into particularly high practicality.

Marking the return of the SS badge at Chevrolet, the Blazer EV SS is the most expensive and highest-performing version of the American brand’s mid-size electric SUV.

Like other General Motors electric models, the Blazer EV SS is based on the Ultium platform and shares its engineering with the Cadillac Lyriq V, a more luxurious crossover.

While other Blazer EV models are equipped with an 85-kWh battery, the SS benefits from a 102-kWh unit that maintains a range of 486 kilometres despite its impressive performance.

The Blazer EV SS’s front and rear motors deliver a combined 615 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, enabling acceleration from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in just 3.4 seconds.

Charging can reach a maximum rate of 190 kW, and GM says that under ideal conditions, this can add 127 kilometres of range per hour of charging.

Unsurprisingly, the SS trim level is positioned at the top of the Blazer EV lineup, which also includes the LT and RS. As such, the SS comes standard with virtually every feature you could want in exchange for a starting price of $74,633.

Our test vehicle was equipped with the Performance Package (semi-metallic brake pads and performance tires), a panoramic sunroof, and an optional bright red paint job, bringing the total price to $77,710.

The Blazer EV SS’s main competitors are the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT and Hyundai IONIQ 5 N. The former is less powerful (480 hp) but has more torque (700 lb-ft) and is nearly $20,000 less expensive than the Blazer EV SS due to recent price cuts. Its 0-60 mph time is virtually identical at 3.3 seconds.

As for the IONIQ 5 N, its $76,000 price tag gets you 641 hp and 568 lb-ft of torque, enabling acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds. Like other IONIQ 5 models, this one features an 800-volt electrical architecture that allows for fast charging up to 350 kW.

Why You Should Buy the 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS

The Chevrolet Blazer EV SS lives up to its badge by offering exhilarating performance and a driving experience that effectively combines dynamism and comfort, requiring no compromise compared to the more affordable trim levels.

1-    Impressive performance

The most important aspect of a sports car, whether electric or not, is of course performance. In this regard, the Chevrolet Blazer EV SS delivers the goods. With 615 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque available under the right foot when WOW (Wide Open Watts) mode is activated, the least we can say is that the Blazer EV SS is not lacking in power. In fact, pressing the accelerator pins you to the back of your seat regardless of speed, and Chevrolet’s SUV doesn’t seem to run out of steam at highway speeds, as is often the case with electric models. Thanks to wide Continental P275/40R22 tires and standard all-wheel drive, the Blazer EV SS grips the pavement with force during quick starts and cornering, despite its considerable weight.

2- A driving experience to match

The 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS isn’t just fast in a straight line. A firmer suspension, quick, nicely-weighted steering, and Brembo brake callipers keep the chassis under control. The weight of the steering wheel and brake pedal contributes to a more engaging experience for the driver. Of course, with a curb weight of 5,730 pounds, the Blazer EV SS can’t compete with a Miata in the corners, but it doesn’t feel out of place either. Comfort is maintained, even if the suspension is a little bouncy on uneven surfaces. The one-pedal driving mode is well calibrated and adjustable to each driver’s preferences, allowing for powerful and smooth stops without using the brakes. Similarly, the advertised range of 486 km is well above that of other performance EVs and not far off that of other Blazer EV versions. This makes the SS a good choice for drivers who want a high-performance model without compromising on comfort for their daily commute.

3- An attractive interior

If there was ever a time when General Motors interiors were disappointing in terms of appearance and materials, that seems to be a thing of the past when you take a seat in the 2026 Blazer EV SS. The interior of this sporty SUV feels well put together, with plenty of padded materials and textural accents that give some of the plastics a richer appearance. The upper edges of the door panels, covered in leather with contrast stitching, are particularly attractive, as are the circular air vents that are illuminated at night. High-resolution screens also enhance this well-designed interior, which includes several open and closed storage spaces and a flat rear floor. Our test model featured fire-engine red leather upholstery, which is far from discreet, but at least it’s certainly not dull.

4- Cutting-edge technology

The Chevrolet Blazer EV SS’s technological offerings are another of its strengths. Shared with other General Motors electric vehicles, its Android Automotive-based infotainment system is fast and relatively easy to use. The native integration of Google Maps has the advantage of including a fairly accurate estimate of the battery’s charge status upon arrival at your destination and on your return, giving you a good idea of the energy required for long trips. Although I usually prefer a start button, I have to admit that the way General Motors EVs turn on and off when you close the door or leave the vehicle feels very natural. Add to that automatic heated seats and steering wheel, and you have a vehicle that’s more enjoyable to use on a daily basis.

5-    An impressive Super Cruise system

Without a doubt, the most impressive technology in the Blazer EV is Super Cruise, GM’s semi-autonomous hands-free driving system that comes standard on the SS. Available on the vast majority of highways in North America, as well as a surprising selection of two-lane numbered roads, this system allows you to drive for hundreds of kilometres without ever touching the steering wheel. When activated, a feature allows the vehicle to change lanes on its own as needed to minimize the impact of traffic on your speed. Seeing the vehicle steer entirely on its own and move from lane to lane without driver intervention is an extremely impressive experience that very few other companies can yet match, both in terms of capabilities and competence.

Why You Should Not Buy the 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS

The size of the 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS limits its sporty potential while offering no significant advantage in terms of interior space.

1-    A bulky format

The 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS is not small, with dimensions that far exceed those of its main rivals. In fact, this model is 178 millimetres longer than the IONIQ 5 N and 151 millimetres longer than the Mustang Mach-E GT. Similarly, the Blazer EV SS is also 42 millimetres wider than the IONIQ 5 N and 100 millimetres wider than the Mach-E GT. This size makes it more difficult to maneuver, particularly in urban areas and parking lots. In fact, some potential buyers should measure their garage carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises when bringing their new vehicle home for the first time. The turning circle of 12.1 meters isn’t particularly impressive either, and you often have to make two attempts to get in or out of a tight parking space.

2-    Space utilization leaves something to be desired

This is all the more annoying because the interior space of the 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS isn’t huge, largely due to inefficient use of space. For example, rear legroom is very generous, but headroom is less so. In the front, space itself is not a problem, but the very deep dashboard does not seem to be the most efficient design. It’s worse in the trunk, as the Blazer EV SS offers only 730 liters of cargo space behind the rear seat, which is about 120 liters less than the Mach-E GT and about 20 liters less than the IONIQ 5 N, both of which are much shorter. The proportions of this trunk are also unusual, as it seems wider than it is long. The Blazer EV SS cannot rely on a front trunk to compensate for its lower cargo capacity, because like almost all of its manufacturer’s other EVs, the mechanical components take up all the space under the hood.

3-    Charging isn’t as fast as it seems

On paper, the Chevrolet Blazer EV SS has nothing to be ashamed of compared to its competitors, with a maximum charging rate of 190 kW on a Level 3 charging station. The problem is that this peak power can only be achieved for a few minutes under specific conditions, before slowing down considerably. So, unlike Hyundai and Kia’s 800-volt EVs, which maintain their maximum charging rate up to 80%, charging the Blazer EV SS is a somewhat frustrating experience that can take quite a while, especially in cold temperatures. My test vehicle took about 35 minutes to go from 26% to 70% charge, while an IONIQ 5 would have done it in 15 minutes. If you’re a fan of long highway trips, this is something to consider.

4-    Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available

If there’s one thing that’s caused a stir about General Motors’ electric models, it’s their lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Blazer EV SS drivers have to make do without these popular phone projection technologies, which many consider an essential feature when purchasing their next vehicle. Admittedly, Android users won’t feel too out of place since GM’s infotainment system is based on this platform and includes native Google Maps navigation, but nothing beats the ease of use of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allow you to set up navigation and entertainment from your phone before you even get in the vehicle.

5-    Still Uncertain Reliability

General Motors’ new generation of electric vehicles is still too young to judge its long-term reliability, but there are some slightly worrying signs. The first owners of the Chevrolet Blazer EV (and Cadillac Lyriq) had to deal with numerous electronic problems during the first few months of sales, which fortunately seem to have been resolved. Despite this, some questions remain, about the robustness of the motorized charging port cover, for example. My test vehicle’s electrical system malfunction indicator also came on during a fast-charging session. We therefore recommend waiting a little longer before purchasing one, to allow time for the last glitches to be ironed out. The good news is that over-the-air updates can provide most of the necessary fixes without having to visit the dealership.

Conclusion

Although purists may not appreciate seeing the SS logo on an electric vehicle, it must be admitted that the 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS fits in very well with the products traditionally bearing this badge. It offers above-average performance while remaining easy and enjoyable to drive on a daily basis, striking a good balance between sportiness and comfort. Its cutting-edge technology and distinctive styling also set it apart from its closest competitors, which are either less unique (Mach-E GT) or less enjoyable to drive every day (IONIQ 5 N). Despite this, some questions remain about its reliability, and its size is not the most practical.

So, should you buy a 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS?

If you’re looking for a powerful, sporty electric vehicle that you can use every day without too many compromises, yes. The Blazer EV SS is perfectly equipped to meet your expectations.

However, if you prefer a more performance-oriented model and don’t mind firmer seats and stiffer suspension, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N might be a better choice.

Model	Chevrolet Blazer EV SS	Ford Mustang Mach-E GT	Hyundai IONIQ 5 N
MSRP (canada)	$69,999	$69,995 (+$1,295 Performance Upgrade)	$78,199
Battery	102 kWh	91 kWh	84 kWh
Range	486 km	451 km	356 km
Combined energy consumption (RN Can)	24,7 kWh / 100 km	23,2 kWh / 100 km	26,7 kWh / 100 km
Power	615 hp	480 hp	641 hp
Torque	650 lb-ft	600 lb-ft (700 lb-ft opt.)	568 lb-ft
Acceleration	3,4 s (0-60 mph)	3,8 s (3,3 s opt.) 0-60 mph	3,4 s (0-100 km/h)
Weight	2,599 kg (5,730 lb)	2,265 kg (4,993 lb)	2,205 kg (4,861 lb)
Headroom (FR/RR)	1,038 mm / 968 mm	988 mm / 970 mm	1,010 mm / 982 mm
Legroom (FR/RR)	1,123 mm / 989 mm	1,100 mm / 968 mm	1,060 mm / 1,013 mm
Cargo space (Seats up/down/front trunk)	722 L / 1,673 L	841 L / 1,685 L / 74 L	740 L / 1,680 L / NA