Chevrolet Blazer: Price, Mileage, Features, Specs, Variants, Engine, Interior, History & More

Brief Introduction of Chevrolet Blazer

The Chevrolet Blazer is a versatile nameplate that has adorned a range of sport utility vehicles (SUVs) produced by Chevrolet. With a history spanning several decades, the Blazer has evolved significantly, from a rugged, truck-based off-roader to a modern, stylish crossover. Its journey reflects the changing demands of the automotive market. The Blazer has been offered in multiple generations and variants, including the iconic K5 Blazer, the compact S-10 Blazer, and the contemporary unibody crossover. This adaptability and rich history have cemented the Blazer’s place as a noteworthy and popular vehicle in Chevrolet’s lineup, appealing to a wide range of drivers with its blend of performance, style, and utility. The nameplate has even ventured into the electric vehicle space with the introduction of the Blazer EV.

Chevrolet Blazer Overview

Generations and History of Chevrolet Blazer

First Generation (K5 Blazer: 1969-1991)

The original Chevrolet Blazer, known as the K5 Blazer, was introduced in 1969 as a full-size, truck-based SUV designed to compete with the Ford Bronco and International Harvester Scout. Built on a shortened pickup truck frame, the K5 Blazer was larger than its rivals, offering more interior space. A key feature of the first-generation (1969-1972) was its removable fiberglass top, which provided an open-air driving experience. Initially, it came standard with only a driver’s seat, with passenger and rear bench seats available as options. Engine choices included inline-six and V8 options. The second iteration of the first generation (1973-1991) saw a significant redesign, becoming larger and featuring a fixed half-cab design from 1976 onwards.

Second Generation (S-10 Blazer: 1983-2005)

In 1983, Chevrolet introduced the S-10 Blazer, a compact SUV based on the S-10 pickup truck. This smaller “baby blazer” was offered alongside the full-size K5 Blazer and catered to buyers who didn’t require the larger model’s space. Unlike the K5, the S-10 Blazer did not have a removable top. It was initially available only as a two-door model, with a four-door version being introduced in 1991. The second generation of the S-10 Blazer, launched in 1995, featured a major redesign with smoother body lines and dropped the “S-10” designation. This generation was available in both two- and four-door body styles and was powered exclusively by a 4.3L V6 engine.

Discontinued Full-Size Blazer (1992-1994)

For a brief period, from 1992 to 1994, the full-size Blazer, now based on the GMT400 platform, was sold. This model was larger than its predecessors and came standard with a 5.7-liter V8 engine. In 1995, this vehicle was renamed the Chevrolet Tahoe.

Latest Generation (Crossover: 2019-Present)

After a hiatus, the Blazer nameplate returned in 2019 as a mid-size crossover SUV. This modern iteration is a departure from its body-on-frame predecessors, featuring a unibody construction shared with vehicles like the GMC Acadia. The design of the new Blazer is sporty and inspired by the Chevrolet Camaro. It offers two rows of seating and is positioned between the smaller Equinox and the larger Traverse in Chevrolet’s lineup. The latest Blazer is available with a choice of a turbocharged four-cylinder or a V6 engine. An all-electric version, the Blazer EV, has also been introduced, marking a new chapter in the vehicle’s history.

Chevrolet Blazer Facelifts and Yearly Updates

Chevrolet Blazer Variants and Features

The latest generation of the Chevrolet Blazer is offered in four main trim levels: 2LT, 3LT, RS, and Premier. The 2LT serves as the base model, featuring a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Standard features across the lineup include a 10.2-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Chevy Safety Assist suite. The 3LT trim adds features like a programmable power liftgate and advanced safety features such as Rear Cross Traffic Alert. It also offers the option to upgrade to the more powerful 3.6L V6 engine. The RS trim is the sportiest variant, coming standard with the 3.6L V6 engine and featuring black exterior accents and unique 20-inch wheels. The Premier trim focuses on luxury, with a chrome-trimmed grille, perforated leather-appointed seating, and an available Bose premium 8-speaker audio system.

Chevrolet Blazer Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience

Throughout its history, the Chevrolet Blazer has offered a wide range of powertrains. The original K5 Blazer was available with both inline-six and V8 engines, emphasizing rugged performance. The S-10 Blazer primarily utilized a 4.3L V6 engine that provided a good balance of power and efficiency for the time. The current-generation Blazer offers two gasoline engine options. The standard engine is a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, an available 3.6L V6 delivers 308 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission. The Blazer EV introduces an all-electric powertrain to the lineup, with some configurations offering up to 557 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of under 4 seconds.

Chevrolet Blazer Pricing and Mileage

The pricing for the latest Chevrolet Blazer varies by trim level and options. The base 2LT trim starts at an MSRP of around $35,400. The 3LT model has a starting price of approximately $39,300, while the sporty RS and luxurious Premier trims both start at about $42,800. Fuel efficiency for the gasoline-powered Blazer depends on the engine and drivetrain configuration. The 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive offers an estimated 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The 3.6L V6 engine with front-wheel drive is rated at approximately 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. All-wheel drive is available for both engines, which slightly reduces the fuel economy figures.

Chevrolet Blazer Colors, Design, and Dimensions

The modern Chevrolet Blazer features a bold and athletic exterior design with styling cues taken from the Camaro. It has a prominent grille, sleek headlights, and sculpted body lines that give it a sporty and aggressive stance. Wheel sizes range from 18 inches on the base model to available 21-inch wheels on higher trims. In terms of dimensions, the latest Blazer measures 191.88 inches in length, 76.7 inches in width, and 67 inches in height. It has a wheelbase of 113 inches and a minimum ground clearance of 7.5 inches. Inside, the Blazer offers a passenger volume of 107.8 cubic feet and can seat up to five people. With the rear seats up, it provides 30.5 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to 64.2 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down.

Chevrolet Blazer Safety Features

• Airbags: The Blazer is equipped with a comprehensive airbag system, including frontal and seat-mounted side-impact airbags for the driver and front passenger, knee airbags for the driver, and head-curtain airbags for all outboard seating positions.
• ABS / EBD: All models come with a 4-wheel antilock disc brake system.
• Electronic Stability Control: StabiliTrak, Chevrolet’s electronic stability control system with traction control, is standard.
• Crash Test Ratings: Not publicly available.
• Other advanced safety systems: The standard Chevy Safety Assist suite includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Following Distance Indicator, and IntelliBeam auto high beams. Available advanced safety features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert.

Chevrolet Blazer Infotainment and Connectivity

The modern Chevrolet Blazer is well-equipped with advanced infotainment and connectivity features. A 10.2-inch diagonal HD color touchscreen is standard across all trims, running the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Plus system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability are also standard, allowing for seamless smartphone integration. Other standard features include a Wi-Fi hotspot, voice recognition, and multiple USB ports. For an enhanced audio experience, a Bose premium 8-speaker sound system is available on higher trims. The Blazer EV takes connectivity a step further with a massive 17.7-inch diagonal customizable infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch driver information display.

Chevrolet Blazer Owner Reviews & Ratings

Information not disclosed

Chevrolet Blazer Comparison with Similar Cars

The Chevrolet Blazer competes in the crowded mid-size SUV segment against rivals like the Ford Edge, Nissan Murano, and Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. Compared to these competitors, the Blazer stands out with its aggressive, Camaro-inspired styling. In terms of performance, the Blazer’s available V6 engine offers more horsepower than the standard engines in many of its rivals. The Blazer’s interior is often praised for its modern design and user-friendly infotainment system. However, some competitors may offer more rear passenger space or a larger cargo area. When it comes to value, the Blazer’s starting price is competitive within the segment, and it comes well-equipped with standard features.

Chevrolet Blazer Awards and Recognition

• Playboy Magazine’s Truck of the Year for 1995 (second-generation S-10 Blazer)
• Motor Trend 1995 Truck of the Year (second-generation S-10 Blazer)
• North American Truck of the Year at the North American International Auto Show in 1995 (second-generation S-10 Blazer)

Interesting Facts about Chevrolet Blazer

• The first-generation K5 Blazer was originally offered with only a single driver’s seat as standard equipment; the passenger seat and rear bench were optional extras.
• The Blazer name was used for several different vehicle platforms simultaneously, with the full-size K5 Blazer being sold alongside the smaller S-10 Blazer for a number of years.
• The modern crossover Blazer’s design was heavily influenced by the Chevrolet Camaro, which has led to mixed reactions from fans of the original off-road models.
• A sporty version of the S-10 Blazer called the Blazer Xtreme was introduced in 2001, featuring a lowered suspension and a unique body kit.

Chevrolet Blazer Legacy and Influence

The Chevrolet Blazer holds a significant legacy in the automotive world, representing the evolution of the SUV. The original K5 Blazer was a pioneering vehicle that helped popularize the idea of a sporty, off-road capable utility vehicle. Its success paved the way for a whole new segment of the market. The S-10 Blazer further expanded the nameplate’s appeal by offering a more compact and fuel-efficient option. The revival of the Blazer name on a modern crossover, while controversial to some purists, reflects Chevrolet’s adaptation to current market trends where car-based SUVs dominate sales. The introduction of the Blazer EV demonstrates the brand’s commitment to an electric future, ensuring the Blazer nameplate continues to evolve with the times.

Chevrolet Blazer Global Availability

The Chevrolet Blazer has been sold in various markets around the world throughout its history. While primarily focused on the North American market, certain generations and versions have been available in other regions. For example, the S-10 Blazer was manufactured and sold in Brazil. There have also been specific models, such as the Chevrolet Grand Blazer, which were sold in South American countries like Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, and Venezuela. The current-generation crossover Blazer is primarily sold in North America and is built in Mexico.

Chevrolet Blazer Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Information not disclosed

Final Words about Chevrolet Blazer

The Chevrolet Blazer is a nameplate with a rich and varied history, a testament to its ability to adapt and evolve with the times. From its origins as a rugged and capable off-roader to its current form as a stylish and tech-savvy crossover, the Blazer has consistently offered a compelling blend of style, performance, and utility. The latest generation appeals to modern buyers with its sharp design, comfortable interior, and advanced features, while the introduction of the Blazer EV signals a bold step into the future of mobility. Whether you’re a long-time enthusiast or a new buyer in the market for a versatile SUV, the Chevrolet Blazer’s legacy and continued innovation make it a noteworthy contender.