The 2026 Chevy Blazer EV Sports an SS Badge

2026 Chevy Blazer EV

If you had told me five years ago that the most exciting "SS" badged Chevrolet would be a three-ton electric SUV, I would have laughed. The "Super Sport" badge has traditionally signified a V8 rumbling through a Camaro or a high-performance sedan.

But after spending a week with the 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS, I can confidently say that Chevy's performance spirit has not only endured the shift to electrification but has also been turbocharged.

While the Blazer EV was launched a few years ago with some software issues and a confusing trim lineup, the 2026 model year marks its maturity. Chevy has simplified the lineup, added all-wheel drive (AWD), incorporated new technology, and introduced the powerful SS trim I recently tested. The big question is, can this "performance EV' truly compete with the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E? Let’s explore.

Design

Parked in my driveway in the new Habanero Orange, the Blazer EV looks stunning. It combines the sleekness of a stealth fighter with the power of a muscle car. The biggest exterior change is the lighting feature. The front LED light bar now has "choreography," creating a small light show when you approach or leave the vehicle. It’s a bit gimmicky, but it makes the $60k price tag feel more special.

Chevy has finally adopted the full EV aerodynamic design. My tester rode on large 22-inch machined-face wheels (a new design for the SS) and featured black roof rails and glossy black mirror caps. It appears lower and wider than a standard gas Blazer. The "SS" badging is subtle, but the Brembo front brakes visible through the wheels confirm its performance.

What’s new this year? Besides the Tech Bronze package, Chevy has streamlined the lineup. They eliminated the rear-wheel-drive option entirely for 2026 to simplify production, so the LT and RS trims are now available only with FWD or AWD.

Interior

Close the door, and the silence becomes deafening. My SS tester featured the black/medium ash grey interior with bold argon orange contrast accents and stitching. The highlight is the large 17.7-inch diagonal color touchscreen, paired with an 11-inch driver display with a built-in Google system. Chevy is fully committed to Google Automotive Services. An eight-year subscription to OnStar Basic is available. 

The fixed-glass panoramic sunroof and ventilated seats keep the seats cool during summer heat, and the dual-zone climate control makes the cabin a sanctuary. Also, the flat-bottom steering wheel is easier to turn.

Powertrain/Performance: The 2026 Chevy Blazer EV SS is equipped with a 102 kWh battery pack that drives dual electric motors, delivering 615 horsepower and an impressive 650 lb-ft of torque. The Wide-Open Watts (WOW) mode is the SS's standout feature. Activating the WOW mode allows it to go from zero to 60 in about 3.4 seconds. Just be sure you’re on a safe stretch of road with no police nearby. The experience isn't just about speed; it's explosive. The front lifts, the SS hums, the tires grip the pavement, and this 5,163-pound SUV accelerates like a Formula One race car. 

Range/Charging:

Despite its 615 horsepower, the EPA estimates the SS has a range of 302 miles. It takes about 30 minutes to recharge the battery on a public fast charger and 9.5 hours on a Level 2 (240V). Chevy includes a dual-level charge cord in the trunk that works with Level 1 and Level 2 chargers. You’ll need an adapter for the Tesla Supercharger network, which costs $275.

Driving Impressions:

Other advanced performance features in the Blazer EV include adaptive suspension with Touring and Sports modes, Super Cruise, and One Pedal Driving.

Models/Price: The 2026 Chevy Blazer EV offers three main trim levels: the LT ($44,700), the RS ($50,500), and the high-performance SS ($60,700). The LT and RS are available with either front-wheel drive (220 horsepower and 312-mile EV range) or all-wheel drive (300 horsepower and 283-mile EV range), while the SS, which is AWD, has 615 horsepower and an EV range of 302 miles. 

Note: Prices listed are MSRP and do not include the mandatory $1,495 destination charge.

Visit Decisive Media Network for a complimentary subscription to my auto blog, where you can find updated car-buying tips and reviews on new cars, SUVs, and trucks. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.