Off-Roaders Need To Avoid The Chevy Blazer
In the good ‘ole days, the Chevy Blazer was built to do amazing things off the road. Heck, one version even had a camper top. While the Blazer was missed for decades for its unique abilities, Chevy answered the call by bringing it back. But does the Blazer remain true to its history with the ability to go off-roading?
Can The Chevy Blazer Go Off-Roading
Unfortunately, unlike its rugged history, the new Chevy Blazer is designed to be a pretty looking crossover instead of a vehicle built for off-roading. Instead of being built on a truck frame, like previous models, the current model was built on a framework for pavement use.
GM needed to produce a crossover with two rows of seating to compete against options like the Ford Edge instead of the new Bronco, which is pretty puzzling. They could have gone in to improve the Chevy Trax or Traverse.
So, even though the Chevy Blazer was built to look pretty and appeal to daily drivers, I suppose we should still give a shot and look at what it can do.
2020 Chevy Blazer Specs
Are you interested in the Blazer for your daily driver? Well, you can get started in the base model for about $28k. This is a little more than the new Rav4 and CR-V models, but you do get to say that you drive a new Blazer.
The Chevy Blazer also has a disappointing fuel economy. It only gets an average of up to 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. This is lower than it’s competitors that reach over 25 mpg in the city and over 30 mpg on the highway.
In terms of power, the Blazer brings the heat with two powerful engine options. The base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that provides 193 horsepower and 188 ft-lb of torque. The more powerful engine is a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 305 horsepower and 296 lb-ft of torque.
The standard engine delivers the ability to go 0 to 60 in as little as 6.3 seconds, and the V6 engine roars with the ability to go from 0 to 60 mpg in 4.6 seconds. So, it does outperform its sluggish competitors.
So, the Blazer certainly doesn’t disappoint when it comes to power and can tow up to 4,500 pounds. This towing compacity is higher than it’s competitors, which can tow around 3,500 lb.
While we would love to see a new Blazer with true 4×4 capabilities, we have to settle for all-wheel drive options instead. So, if you need a roomie SUV with the ability to handle a little snow and slightly bumpy dirt roads, the Blazer will be fine.
However, keep in mind that the Blazer sits up on 21” tires. While these tires are great for off-roading, they can disrupt a smooth ride around the city.
Luckily, the smaller 18” wheels provide a quieter, more peaceful ride for going around town, which is what this Blazer is designed for.
The steering is smooth, the suspension is comfortable, and the seats are big and roomy. Plus, the 8” display and connectivity put the Blazer on par with competitors.
So, while no, the Blazer isn’t made for off-roading, it is a comfortable family car that offers luxury and power for your daily commute. If you want a more rugged vehicle to take down the beaten path, look elsewhere.