2025 Subaru Outback vs 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV marked a significant evolution for the Blazer nameplate, transitioning from its truck-based off-roader roots to a modern electric SUV. It borrowed styling cues from the 2019 car-based crossover model, applying them to a new EV-specific platform. Built around the General Motors Ultium battery pack, the Blazer EV shared a long wheelbase with the Cadillac Lyriq, giving it a stretched appearance. Its design featured a tall hood, a scowling front end, and boomerang-shaped taillights, exuding more attitude than its aerodynamic rivals like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Kia EV6. The Blazer EV was available in LT and RS trims, each with distinct styling elements, and a forthcoming SS model promised even more unique features.

The 2025 Subaru Outback stood out as one of the few remaining wagons in the U.S., embracing crossover trends with its rugged design elements like chunky wheel-arch flares and skid plate-like fascias. Its Crimson Red Pearl paint and black leather interior added to its appeal, though earthy shades suited it best. Subaru focused on off-road capabilities, a strategy that paid off with the Outback, Crosstrek, and Forester being top sellers. The 2025 model saw no major changes, with trims offering various upholstery options and features like a power moonroof and DriverFocus tech. The Touring XT trim boasted Nappa leather and ventilated seats, while the interior maintained a balance of chrome and black plastic, with easy-to-read gauges and a digital display.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV offered a range of powertrain options, including a single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) and a dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) in the LT and RS trims. The RWD models delivered 340 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque with a 102-kilowatt-hour battery pack, while the AWD models had 288 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque with an 85-kWh pack. Uniquely, Chevy also planned a single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) option for 2025. The Blazer EV SS performance model promised 557 hp and 648 lb-ft of torque, with a WOW launch mode for rapid acceleration. The Blazer EV excelled in handling, though its stiff suspension compromised comfort. Regenerative braking was adjustable, adding driver involvement.

The 2025 Subaru Outback featured a horizontally opposed "Boxer" engine in two forms: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines used a CVT and standard AWD. The turbocharged engine provided better acceleration, making it a recommended upgrade. The Outback's 8.7 inches of ground clearance and X-Mode enhanced off-road capabilities, with the Wilderness model offering even more. On the road, the Outback was smooth and comfortable, with light steering and powerful brakes. However, the stop/start technology and CVT had some drawbacks.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV's interior felt spacious, though headroom and legroom were similar to the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Kia EV6. It lacked the commanding driving position of traditional SUVs, and the high side sills and deep dashboard created a unique feel. 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 had a "presence activated" liftgate but no frunk. Interior storage included a large phone space and center console, though some controls were moved to the touchscreen.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's wagon shape offered practicality, with easy entry and exit and a low roof for loading. It had 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seat up and 75.6 cubic feet with it folded, with a flat floor and square shape maximizing usability. The Outback's 109 cubic feet of passenger volume surpassed crossover competitors, with more front headroom and legroom. Buyers could choose between different trims and engine options, with towing capacity increasing to 3,500 pounds with the turbocharged engine.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV introduced a Google-based infotainment system with built-in Google apps but no standalone Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. It featured a 17.7-inch touchscreen and 11-inch digital instrument cluster with sharp graphics. The system included route planning and OTA updates. The user experience was mostly good, though the touchscreen's angle and lack of physical controls were drawbacks. The Blazer EV also had a hands-free start sequence, marking a shift towards a high-tech feel.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's technology package included an 11.6-inch touchscreen with big icons but slow response times. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, with wireless connectivity on most models. The Harman Kardon audio system was effective, though Starlink disturbances were an issue. The dashboard had a mix of physical controls and touchscreen functions, with a CD player and USB ports for older devices.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV had standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist. Optional features included reverse automatic braking and Super Cruise, a hands-free driver assist system. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.

The 2025 Subaru Outback featured EyeSight driver-assist technology with adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims had blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Outback earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.