The diversity of shapes, sizes, and editions of SUVs on the road today certainly speaks to how different manufacturers are constantly improving upon designs to cater to the always-growing interests and needs of consumers. One of the most exciting cases has been the resurrection and redesign of several older models that had been absent for quite some time. The Ford Bronco comes to mind as one, but it’s the Chevy Blazer's pedigree that makes it stand out from other offerings in this segment.
Making its debut in 1969, the Blazer has exemplified what the ideal SUV should be. It's tough and dependable—like so many other offerings from Chevy—yet accessible and agile enough for the average consumer to benefit from. It's better than it's ever been, having earned its rightful place as Chevy's flagship SUV. With a new model year on the horizon, this venerable vehicle promises that consistency is key as it once again trounces the competition. Let's take a look at the 2024 Chevy Blazer and the promise and prowess it exhibits—so buckle up because there’s a lot to behold.
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Over the years, SUVs have become smaller in size and acquired more fuel-efficient powertrains. The old trope of "large and in charge" is no longer popular; the modern driver wants a car that is quick, agile, and fuel-efficient. The 2024 Chevy Blazer is a unique SUV that caters to those who want an economical car as well as those who enjoy driving fast and satisfying their passengers. It's versatile and perfect for a wide range of drivers—especially those with busy lives.
There are two powertrains available for the Chevy Blazer: one for economy and the other for performance. The former is a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder gas engine. Because the lineage of the Camaro heavily inspired the modern version of the Blazer, there’s an added focus on granting performance at every conceivable level. This base engine delivers 228 hp and is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission for optimum performance. It's ideal for the city-dweller or frugal commuter, as it gets 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. FWD is the standard drivetrain across all trims, but AWD is available for snow days and the occasional jaunt off the pavement.
For those who are looking for just a little bit more in the performance sector, Chevy offers up a powertrain that has some serious prowess. This 3.6L V6 raises the power output to 308 hp and, like its four-cylinder sibling, also pairs with a nine-speed automatic. The proof is in the pudding when it comes to forward momentum: testing from Car and Driver Magazine showed that the V6 could allow the Blazer to go from zero to sixty in just under seven seconds. For a midsize SUV, this is certainly impressive. And not to worry—for those who might need to tackle a workload on occasion, the Blazer also possesses a maximum tow rating of 4,500 lbs when properly equipped.
Depending on what your predilection for handling might be, you might be inclined to test drive the RS trim. Equipped with a unique five-link independent suspension and 20-inch wheels, this trim certainly enforces the relationship between the modern Blazer and the influence of the Camaro. A low center of gravity with a ground clearance that’s just over seven inches will also allow you to hug the road and exert control.
You only get one chance to make a first impression. Just like how the 2024 Blazer's powertrains are instilled with Camaro-inspired potency, this Blazer's exterior and interior achieve the same success in their aesthetics. Sitting on a set of 18- or 21-inch wheels and brandishing an intimidating front-end, it’s quick to see that this is not your typical SUV. Even the front headlights have an ominous presence about them that looks like they came from the muscle car’s golden age. The most popular exterior color scheme—a red body and black top—accentuates the Camaro's style almost too perfectly. And if the exterior catches your eye, then just wait until you get behind the wheel...
True to its nature—being inspired by the Camaro—the interior of the 2024 Blazer is just what you'd imagine if you were to blend high performance with a luxury SUV. Like most modern vehicles, the Blazer's cabin is anchored by its 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen; it's standard at this size across all trim levels and is compatible with both Apple and Android smartphones. Upper trims boast built-in navigation to aid them in their journeys.
Aside from a generously sized infotainment screen, the design of the interior includes some unique touches that elevate the Blazer's style. Nestled between the infotainment screen and gear shifter are a pair of circular HVAC vents that are a direct throwback to the glory days of the Camaro. If you’re more interested in modern entertainment features than the AM radios that were synonymous with the muscle car golden age, an available eight-speaker stereo system from Bose can be installed. There are also other features that one would expect from a capable SUV, such as over 64 cu.ft. of available storage space with the rear row folded down and 30.5 cu.ft. available at all times in the hatch.
For some, great style is measured in luxury features, and the upper trim of the Blazer can surely satisfy. The Premier provides leather-upholstered front seats that are power-adjustable and boast lumbar support. The steering wheel is likewise leather-wrapped and heated. Since the modern driver associates luxury with stylish, generous, and responsive tech, the Premier trim is outfitted with multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad for compatible smartphones.
Let's shine a spotlight on the safety tech and driving assistance features that Chevy makes standard and available in the 2024 Blazer. Safety is easily the most important aspect of any vehicle, so it’s worth noting that the 2024 Chevy Blazer was awarded a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA's government-mandated collision testing, and it received top scores in the IIHS's tests for crashworthiness and crash avoidance and mitigation.
The Chevy Blazer comes with a variety of standard safety features that are all part of Chevy Safety Assist, a comprehensive suite that provides an added layer of protection and oversight for when and where you need it most. Features such as automated emergency and pedestrian braking, following distance indication, and forward collision alert are all essential in maximizing your reaction time; this is a skill that all drivers develop with experience, and having some extra help in this area is one of the best ways to avoid a potential collision.
Other items such as lane keeping and departure assistance and automated high beams are essential for the long commute. Other available features can be included to maximize your protection when you’re traveling, the most notable of which is adaptive cruise control; one of the most technologically advanced features to emerge in recent years, this technology adjusts your vehicle’s speed in accordance with traffic patterns to ensure you keep a safe distance from others on the road. Other features include enhanced emergency braking and a rear-view camera, whose benefits are so obvious that these features are all but ubiquitous in the auto industry.
Chevy boasts numerous exclusive safety technologies, like StabiliTrak, their traction control system, which allows for more confident handling when driving conditions are less than favorable. The Blazer also comes with Teen Driver mode, which allows you to put limits on speed and volume, monitor your young driver's travels by GPS, and produce a virtual report card after a drive to review your teen's driving habits alongside them and target areas of improvement. OnStar Connected Services—which has been partnered with GM for years now—affords some added peace of mind in the event of a serious accident. By placing safety at the forefront, Chevy once again proves that it has the well-being of its drivers in mind with every vehicle it manufactures.