2019 Chevrolet Blazer Revealed As Bold Tech-Savvy Crossover
Chevrolet has brought back an old name from the dead, with the 2019 Blazer promising to shake up the midsize crossover SUV segment. Sized to slot in-between Chevy's Equinox and Traverse, the 2019 Blazer takes a more fashion-forward approach to styling, something which is likely to prove divisive.
In fact, there'll be a number of different styles, which Chevrolet expects to better distinguish between the various trims. That'll include a more sporting RS, and a high-end Blazer Premier, among others. All will get the same wider stance and high beltline, along with a kicked-up C-pillar design.
From that starting point, Chevrolet will give each different model in the 2019 Blazer range its own grille, while the Premier will get extra chrome. The Blazer RS will go in the opposite direction, with a blacked-out look. All get HID headlamps with separate LED daytime running lights; the rear gets LED dual-element taillamps along with dual exhausts, plus an integrated tailgate spoiler. As for wheels, they'll span 18- through to 21-inches, depending on model.
Under the hood, the standard engine for all Blazer models is an Ecotec 2.5-liter four-cylinder. That'll deliver 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. Optionally there'll be a 3.6-liter V6, stepping things up to 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. Each has stop/start and a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Front-wheel drive will be standard, with AWD as an option. Regardless of which you have, there's a Traction Select mode that promises to adapt to road and driving conditions. The 2019 Blazer AWD can completely disconnect the rear axle, too, for greater fuel economy.
On the Blazer RS and Premier, meanwhile, the AWD system uses a twin-clutch. Chevy says that should be more stable in the dry but also more capable in wet or icy conditions. No word on economy figures at this point, but we do know that the Blazer will be able to tow an estimated 4,500 pounds when configured with the V6.
There's an optional Hitch View feature for those drivers regularly hooking up something to the back of their Blazer, too. That shows a bird's eye view of the scene, so that it's easier to guide the crossover to the trailer. Hitch Guidance shows a center line on the reversing camera, too.
As for the other tech, there's the ability to open all the windows from the key fob, while an automatic heated steering wheel and automatically heated/cooled front seats are options. Heated outboard rear seats will be offered on the Blazer RS and standard on the Blazer Premier. Adaptive cruise control and a rear camera mirror will be optional on both the RS and Premier, while a hands-free power lift gate – that projects the Chevrolet Bowtie logo – is standard.
Inside, wireless phone charging and six USB ports are optional. An 8-inch touchscreen with Chevrolet Infotainment 3 software is standard, along with 4G LTE WiFi, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A panoramic dual-pane power sunroof will be optional. There are five seats, with up to 64.2 cubic feet (1,818 liters) of cargo space with the second row folded flat. The rear seats also slide, and there's an available cargo management system that has rails and a cargo fence.
Chevrolet says the 2019 Blazer should start to show up in dealerships in early 2019. Pricing and more specifications will be revealed closer to that launch.
