Should you Skip the Tesla Model Y for a Blazer EV or Mach-E?
The Tesla Model X SUV with its funky rear doors almost instantly became a hit with the well-heeled for its practicality, style, and electric-motor punch. That SUV made it clear that Tesla needed a smaller SUV that costs less, but that has much of the style and utility of the X. Thus, Tesla started making the Model Y, which is an all-wheel drive all-electric SUV that filled a gap between the small Model 3 car and the large Model X SUV.
However, Ford and Chevy both had the same idea and Ford’s Mustang Mach-E and the new 2024 Blazer EV are both coming for the Model Y. A lot of buyers will be looking to buy a Model Y or Ford Mach-E and a Blazer EV in 2023.
Electric Range: Tesla Model Y vs. Mach-E vs. Blazer EV
Electric vehicle range is key to an EVs success. Chevrolet says the Blazer EV will have 247 miles of range in the base version, and up to 290 miles in the high-performance SS version with an upgraded battery. The EPA says that Ford’s 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E all-wheel drive has a 224-mile total range, but the rear-wheel drive version has a 303-mile range while the special Mach-E California Route 1 rear-wheel drive version has a 314-mile range.
The Model Y may have flaws, but it beats both, though not by much. According to the EPA, the 2022 Model Y long-range all-wheel drive gets 330 miles on a charge, while the base all-wheel drive Model Y gets 279 miles on a charge.
What is the fastest of these EV SUVs?
The Tesla has two motors, standard, and Tesla says the 2022 Y can hit 60 mph in 3.5 seconds in the Model Y Performance version, or 4.8 seconds in the Model Y Long Range version. In a Tesla Model Y vs. Mach-E GT drag race, it would be close. Ford, too, says the Mach-E can hit 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. The base Select Mach-E is a bit off the mark, however, with a 0-60 time of about 6 seconds, depending on which figures you accept.
Chevy has released the targets for the 2024 Blazer EV. The company says with its 557 horsepower, the SS model should spring to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds, while using Wide Open Watts (or WOW) mode.
The Tesla holds more people, and more stuff
The Ford and the Chevy hold five passengers, while the longer Model Y can seat up to seven in a tiny third row. The Model Y holds 76 cubic feet of stuff. Though Chevy hasn’t released cargo specs, the gas version of the Blazer holds 64.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, while the Mach-E holds 59.7 below its sloping rear hatch.
Tesla Model Y is more expensive, vs. the Mach E and Blazer EV
On factors like cargo space, speed, and range, the Tesla Model Y vs. Mach E vs. Blazer EV spec sheets are similar. But the Tesla is a lot more expensive and has a brand cache that Chevy and Ford don’t. It comes in two flavors, the Model Y Long Range at $67,990 or Performance, at $69,990 before incentives. The base Mustang Mach-E is $43,895, while the hot GT trim is $61,995. A mid-level Premium version costs $48,775. Ford has limited production of the 2022 Mach-E and they are no longer available to order.
The Blazer 1LT starts at $44,995, while a mid-level 2LT should cost $47,595. Chevy has only used the SS badge on its super sports cars for a reason. Though the specs aren’t fully released, it will cost $65,995 with 557 horsepower, and come with 22-inch wheels, Brembo brakes, and a 290-mile range. It also has Super Cruise available.