Chevrolet Blazer
2019 Chevrolet Blazer RS (US)
Overview
ManufacturerGeneral Motors
ProductionDecember 2018 – present
Model years2019–present
AssemblyMexico: Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila (Ramos Arizpe Assembly)
China: Jinqiao, Shanghai (SAIC-GM)
DesignerJawook Koo and Brian Malczewski[1]
Body and chassis
ClassMid-size crossover SUV
Body style5-door SUV
Layout
PlatformC1XX
Related
Powertrain
Engine
Power output
  • 143 kW (192 hp; 194 PS) (2.5 L)
  • 172 kW (231 hp; 234 PS) (2.0 L)
  • 230 kW (308 hp; 313 PS) (3.6 L)
Transmission9-speed 9T50 automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase112.7 in (2,863 mm)
Length191.4 in (4,862 mm)
196.8 in (4,999 mm) (three-row version)
Width76.7 in (1,948 mm)
76.9 in (1,953 mm) (three-row version)
Height67.0 in (1,702 mm)
68.3 in (1,736 mm) (three-row version)
Curb weight3,810 lb (1,728 kg)
4,145–4,409 lb (1,880–2,000 kg) (three-row version)

The Chevrolet Blazer is a mid-size crossover SUV produced by General Motors under the Chevrolet marque. The vehicle went into production in December 2018 and sales began in January 2019 as a 2019 model. In China, a version with longer rear section and optional three-row seating is offered, which debuted in 2019 and went on sale in April 2020.

Overview

The Blazer was introduced to the public in Atlanta on June 21, 2018 as a mid-size crossover SUV that slots between the compact Equinox and the three-row, full-size Traverse. It serves as a counterpart to the GMC Acadia in the mid-size crossover SUV segment and is built on the same platform as the Acadia. The vehicle's design has a sporty look that takes its cues from the Camaro but has a crossover SUV feel.[2][3]

The Blazer nameplate history dates back to 1969 when it was introduced as a two-door large SUV.[4] As the result, the use of the Blazer nameplate on a crossover has sparked mixed reactions, mostly from fans of the K5 Blazer, S-10 Blazer and TrailBlazer, who were disappointed of GM's decision to apply it to a crossover instead of a body-on-frame SUV, citing the Blazer's history as an adventurous off-road vehicle.[5][6][7] The Trailblazer nameplate returned to North America as a compact crossover that slots below the Equinox in 2020 as a 2021 model.[8]

Powertrain

The Blazer launched with two engine options: a standard 2.5 L I4 engine rated at 144 kW (193 hp; 196 PS) and 255 N⋅m (188 lbf⋅ft) of torque, and a 3.6 L V6 engine, rated at 227.5 kW (305 hp; 309 PS) and 365 N⋅m (269 lbf⋅ft) of torque.[9] Both engines were paired with GM's 9-speed 9T50 automatic transmission.[10][11] The same transmission is also used in the company's Cruze, Malibu, and Equinox models.[12] For 2020, a 2.0 L turbocharged I4 engine was added to the lineup.

Trim levels

When the Blazer went on sale in January 2019, it featured either FWD and AWD, with a choice of L, LT (1LT, 2LT, and 3LT), RS, and Premier trim levels.[13] Since then, the L and 1LT trim levels have been dropped.

Standard features on all Blazer models include the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system with eight-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, OnStar with 4G LTE Wi-Fi capabilities, keyless entry with keyless access and push-button start, and alloy wheels. Options include remote start, upgraded alloy wheels, a Bose premium audio system, GPS navigation, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, a power sunroof, heated and ventilated front bucket seats with driver's memory, red interior accents (RS trim only), and a power tailgate.

Model year changes

2020

The 2020 model year Blazer saw a 2.0L turbocharged 4 cylinder LSY engine added as an option on 2LT and 3LT level trims.[14]

2021

The 2021 model year Blazer offers a new towing package called the VR2 Trailering Package on models equipped with front-wheel-drive and the 3.6L V6 LGX engine. The optional package includes the same cooling system as the aforementioned similar V92 package available on AWD models and is expected to increase the maximum towing capacity of front-drive models to 4500 pounds, the same as on the AWD model.[15] Four new colors were also added, while three were dropped. Pewter metallic, iron gray, cayenne orange, and cherry red tintcoat were all new for 2021, while nightfall gray metallic, graphite metallic, and cajun red tintcoat were discontinued. The standard leather-wrapped steering wheel was replaced with a urethane steering wheel on the L, 1LT, and 2LT trim levels.[16] The twin-clutch AWD system was removed from the Premier trim, and is now only exclusively offered on the RS trim level, while all the other models get a regular AWD system (without the twin-clutch setup).[17][18]

2022

The Blazer L and 1LT trim levels were dropped—these models were only available with FWD and the 2.5L inline-4 LCV engine. This marks the discontinuation of the 2.5L inline-4 engine for the Blazer lineup, as this engine is not offered with any other Blazer configurations.[19]

2023 facelift

In February 2022, for the 2023 model year, Chevrolet announced a facelift for the Blazer. Changes on the exterior include revised LED headlights and tail lights, new grille design, and new 18, 20, and 21-inch wheel designs. Additionally, new colors available include Fountain Blue, Sterling Gray Metallic, Copper Bronze Metallic, and Radiant Red Tintcoat. On the interior, all trims come standard with a larger 10-inch infotainment screen (up from 8 inches on the pre-facelift version). Qi wireless charging is now standard on the RS and Premier trims, while it will become available on all other trims. RS models are available with a new Nightshift Blue interior color. Adaptive cruise control is now available on the 2LT and 3LT trim levels and the Chevy Safety Assist package becomes standard.[20]

Markets

Mexico

The Blazer was introduced in Mexico in February 2019. Trim levels available are Tela (which replaces the L), Piel (which replaces the Premier), and RS which differs in equipment list compared to the RS sold in the U.S. and Canada.[21]

South America

GM marketed the Blazer in South American markets, with Argentina, Chile and Colombia since 2019 as part of its lineup expansion in the region.[22][23] However, it hasn't been released in Argentina yet.[24]

Oceania

GM was looking at expanding the Blazer to Australia and New Zealand as a Holden, up until GM’s decision to eliminate the Holden brand in 2020. It would have been slotted as a mid-size entry between the Acadia and Equinox.

Asia/Middle East

GM began selling the Blazer in GCC markets in June 2019 with similar features as the North American version.[25]

Chinese version

The Chinese version of the Blazer was previewed as the FNR-CarryAll concept in November 2018 at Auto Guangzhou in China.[26][27] On November 8, 2019, GM introduced the production version of the Chinese-version Blazer during the 2019 Chevrolet Gala Night event held in Hefei, China featuring three rows of seating. The Chinese Blazer is also longer and taller than the international version of the Blazer to accommodate the third-row seats. It serves as its flagship SUV in China with three trim levels available: standard, RS, and Redline.[28][29] Pre-sales began in March 2020, while production at its Jinqiao Assembly in April 2020 with deliveries starting by mid-year.[30][31] In addition to the Chinese three-row layout Blazer, GM is also offering a two-row layout of the Chinese Blazer with the same footprint, size, and dimensions as the three-row layout Blazer for the Chinese market.[32]

Contrary to rumors that it would be called the "Blazer XL" in North America, GM will not market the Chinese three row Blazer there because of the Traverse filling that slot.[33] It was also confirmed that the Chinese three-row Blazer will not be available in South Korea,[34][35][36] meaning the three-row Chevrolet Blazer is a China-only model.[37][38]

Safety

The 2022 Blazer was tested by the IIHS:[39]

IIHS scores
Small overlap front (Driver)Good
Small overlap front (Passenger)Good
Moderate overlap frontGood
Side (original test)Good
Roof strengthGood
Head restraints and seatsGood
Headlights
MarginalPoor
varies by trim/option
Front crash prevention (Vehicle-to-Vehicle)Superioroptional
Front crash prevention (Vehicle-to-Vehicle)Superiorstandard
Front crash prevention (Vehicle-to-Pedestrian, day)Advancedoptional
Front crash prevention (Vehicle-to-Pedestrian, day)Advancedstandard
Child seat anchors (LATCH) ease of useAcceptable

Production and assembly

GM chose the Ramos Arizpe Assembly in Mexico because its Spring Hill facilities were at full capacity.[40] On November 27, 2018, Chevrolet began production on the Blazer in Ramos Arizpe, phasing out production of the US-discontinued Chevrolet Cruze altogether. The latter ended its North American production in March 2019.[41][42]

Sales

The first 27 units of the Blazer were sold in the US in December 2018.[43]

Calendar year United States Canada China[44] Mexico[45]
2019 58,115[46] 2,738 1,412
2020 94,599[46] 3,861[47] 7,144 1,028
2021 70,325[48] 3,421[47] 7,427 930
2022 67,246[49] 3,508[50]
2023 65,511[51] 4,045

Reception

In a side-by-side comparison with the Ford Edge, Car and Driver declared the Blazer the best, for its "responsive and stable handling, aggressive styling, and stout V-6 engine."[52]

References

  1. US D848315, Koo, Jawook & Malczewski, Brian, "Vehicle, toy replica, and/or other replica", published 2019-05-14, assigned to GM Global Technology Operations LLC
  2. “The 2019 Chevy Blazer looks like the Camaro of crossovers” from Autoblog (June 21, 2018)
  3. “2019 CHEVROLET BLAZER FIRST LOOK: REINVENTING THE SUV FOR A CUV WORLD” from Motor Trend (June 21, 2018)
  4. “History of the Chevy Blazer” from CNET (June 20, 2018)
  5. “First Look: Chevrolet confirms the return of the Blazer, but it’s a crossover and not a Bronco-busting SUV” from New York Daily News (June 21, 2018)
  6. “2019 Blazer: Why Chevy, Why!?” from Gear Junkies (June 21, 2018)
  7. “2019 Chevrolet Blazer: This Is Not the Blazer We're Looking For” from The Drive (June 21, 2018)
  8. "2021 Chevy Trailblazer is revealed as the Blazer's little sibling" from Autoblog (May 29, 2019)
  9. “BOLD DESIGN DEFINES 2019 CHEVROLET BLAZER” from Chevrolet (June 21, 2018)
  10. Mircea Panait (2018-06-22). "2019 Chevrolet Blazer Gets Detailed on Camera". autoevolution. Retrieved 2018-07-11.
  11. Safet Satara (2018-07-08). "5 Ways The Blazer Competes Outside Its Class". TopSpeed. Retrieved 2018-07-11.
  12. Mircea Panait (2016-12-06). "GM Hydra-Matic 9T50 Transmission Confirmed for Chevrolet Cruze, Malibu, Equinox". autoevolution. Retrieved 2018-07-11.
  13. "2019 Blazer Price Starting at $29,995" from GM Authority (September 25, 2018)
  14. “2020 Chevrolet Blazer: The Complete Engine Lineup” from GM Authority (from GM Authority (June 28, 2019)
  15. “New Package Increases 2021 Blazer Towing Capacity On Some Models: Exclusive“ from GM Authority (June 11, 2020)
  16. "Chevy's 2021 Blazer Loses Standard Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel". GM Authority. 23 June 2020. Retrieved 2021-05-14.
  17. "2021 Chevrolet Blazer Premier Gets Less Advanced AWD System". GM Authority. 30 June 2020. Retrieved 2021-05-14.
  18. "2021 Chevrolet Blazer Changes, Updates, New Features". GM Authority. 13 July 2020. Retrieved 2021-05-14.
  19. "2022 Chevy Blazer To Lose L And 1LT Trim Levels". GM Authority. 12 May 2021. Retrieved 2021-05-14.
  20. "Here Is The Refreshed 2023 Chevy Blazer". GM Authority. 2022-02-08. Retrieved 2022-02-13.
  21. "Chevrolet Launches 2019 Blazer In Mexico" from GM Authority (February 14, 2019)
  22. "2019 Blazer Announced For Colombia, Goes On Sale Next Year" from GM Authority (November 18, 2018)
  23. "Seven New Chevrolet Models To Launch In South America In 2019" from GM Authority (January 22, 2019)
  24. "Chevrolet Sitio Oficial | Autos, Camionetas, 4X4, Pick Up, SUV, y Autos Familiares". ChevroletArgentina (in Spanish). Retrieved 2023-10-07.
  25. "2019 Blazer Launches Next Month (June 2019) In The Middle East" from GM Authority (May 6, 2019)
  26. “No, The Chevrolet FNR-X Will Not Go Into Production” from GM Authority (May 1, 2020)
  27. "Chevrolet FNR-CarryAll Concept Gives The Blazer A Third Row" from GM Authority (November 15, 2018)
  28. "GM Teases All-New Three-Row Chevrolet Blazer XL In China" from GM Authority (November 3, 2019)
  29. “GM Reveals The Three-Row Chevrolet Blazer’s Interior” from GM Authority (March 9, 2020)
  30. “Three-Row Chevrolet Blazer Officially Launches In China” from GM Authority (April 17, 2020)
  31. "Three-Row Chevrolet Blazer Pre-Orders Start In China".
  32. “New Two-Row Chevrolet Blazer Officially Launches In China“ from GM Authority (August 10, 2020)
  33. “5 Key Differences Between The Three-Row Chevrolet Blazer And The Two-Row Blazer” from GM Authority (April 24, 2020)
  34. "GM Launches Chevrolet Traverse in South Korea" from GM Authority (September 26, 2019)
  35. “Chevrolet Traverse Heading To South Korea” from GM Authority (June 29, 2018)
  36. "GM to Launch Chevrolet Traverse, Colorado, In Korea" from GM Authority (April 5, 2019)
  37. "2020 Chevrolet TrailBlazer SUV Lands in Brazil". 5 July 2019.
  38. "2021 Chevrolet TrailBlazer SUV Officially Launches in Brazil". 26 August 2020.
  39. "2022 Chevrolet Blazer 4-door SUV". IIHS-HLDI crash testing and highway safety.
  40. “2019 Blazer To Be Built In Mexico” from GM Authority (June 21, 2018)
  41. Bomey, Nathan (November 26, 2018). "GM to kill Chevrolet Volt, Cruze, Impala as Americans ditch passenger cars". Detroit Free Press. Retrieved November 26, 2018.
  42. Centeno, Deivis (November 28, 2018). "GM To Also End Chevy Cruze Production In Mexico". GM Authority. Retrieved November 28, 2018.
  43. "Chevrolet Blazer Sales Kick Off Right On Schedule" from GM Authority (January 3, 2019)
  44. "Chevrolet Blazer China car sales figures". 18 May 2020.
  45. "Venta al público y producción de vehículos ligeros por marca, modelo, segmento y país origen". Instituto Nacional de Estadística, Geografía e Informática (INEGI) (in Mexican Spanish). Retrieved 2021-10-26.
  46. 1 2 "GM U.S. Deliveries for December 2020" (PDF). General Motors. January 5, 2021. Retrieved January 14, 2021.
  47. 1 2 Comments, Chris Tulumba·Top Level Reports·2. "2021 Canada Vehicle Sales Figures By Model". GCBC. Retrieved 2022-06-17.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  48. "Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Deliver GM's 2nd Consecutive Year of Full-Size Pickup Sales Leadership in 2021". 4 January 2022.
  49. "GM Delivers a Year of Firsts". GM Pressroom. 2023-01-04. Retrieved 2023-01-06.
  50. "GM Canada Sales Increase 42% in Q4, and 5% for 2022". GM Pressroom. 2023-01-04. Retrieved 2023-01-06.
  51. "U.S. Q4 and Full-Year Sales: GM Delivers Another Year of Firsts". GM Pressroom. 2024-01-04. Retrieved 2024-01-05.
  52. "2019 Chevrolet Blazer RS and 2019 Ford Edge Titanium Face Off: Which Is Detroit's Best Two-Row Mid-Size SUV?" from Car and Driver (April 10, 2019)
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