2019 Chevy Blazer
02-10-20, 10:12 AM
#421
Lexus Fanatic
Usually Autoblog is very pro GM. Not for the Blazer. I will say, Autoblog has become pretty crappy the last little while.
Source
Feb 10th 2020 at 8:30AMWe'll say one thing for the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer, it isn't boring. By channeling the spiritof the Camaro, if not its literal styling, the Blazer brings some excitement to a midsize SUV segment mostly known for anonymous kid haulers or outdoorsy road trippers. It's definitely something for the suburban-bound who are willing to sacrifice some practicality for style.
The trouble is, the new Blazer doesn't go far enough beyond its truly compelling style. Its performance-oriented RS just doesn't provide enough of an exciting driving experience, while neither the RS nor the luxury-oriented Premier provide a suitably up-market cabin to justify sky-high price tags that can crest $50,000. The value proposition of lower trims is questionable as well, as their space, interior quality and performance essentially match cheaper compact SUVs like a Mazda CX-5 or Toyota RAV4. So while the 2020 Blazer may not be boring, it needs a bit more substance.
At least the Blazer's infotainment offerings are better and more abundant than most. Every version gets an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 4G LTE in-car WiFi, OnStar and four USB ports, including a new USB-C port (the small one). That standard touchscreen is pretty easy to use with big, clear icons and a sensible menu structure.
The back seat does slide generously, making it easy to bring kids closer to those in front or free up extra cargo space. That's a good thing, since its on-paper cargo figures are unremarkable. There's 30.3 cubic feet with the seats raised and 64.2 when they are lowered completely flat thanks to a cleverly engineered seat bottom (see cargo video below). By contrast, the biggest compact models like the CR-V and Forester are in the mid 30s and 70s, respectively. Even Chevy's own Equinox has only a single cubic foot less of maximum cargo capacity than the Blazer.
For 2020, the 2LT and 3LT come standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four that produces 230 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is optional. Fuel economy is actually better than the base engine, as it returns an estimated 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined with FWD. It lowers to 21/27/23 with AWD.
Optional on the 2LT and 3LT, and standard on the RS and Premier, is a 3.6-liter V6 that pumps out 308 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. It's one of the quickest midsize crossovers as a result, hitting 60 mph in in the low 6-second range. Fuel economy is effective the same whether you get FWD (19/26/21) or AWD (18/25/21).
Unfortunately, power steering disappoints — at least for those expecting the Blazer to be the sporting SUV its styling implies. It just doesn't engage enough or provide sufficient feedback. Ride quality is also a mixed bag. Even the Blazer on 18s has a firmer ride than we've come to expect from GM's crossovers, but damping is quite good, and it's perfectly acceptable for a vehicle with sporting intentions. On the other hand, the optional 21-inch wheels yielded a tiresome ride when driving between 25 and 50 mph on anything but perfect pavement. We couldn't see the bumps, but we could sure feel them. It was admittedly more livable at highway speeds.
In terms of engine choice, the base four-cylinder is obviously weak for a segment dominated by V6 engines. That said, we actually found it to be perfectly serviceable and not as doggedly slow in practice as we were expecting. It's pretty much in keeping with the four cylinders found in compact SUVs (of course, the Blazer's price is not).
We have yet to sample the new turbo four engine, but the upgrade V6 provides strong performance that compares favorably to other V6-powered competitors. For the sport-tuned RS model, however, it just doesn't provide the sort of soundtrack or amped up exhaust note that's expected. The transmission is also lazy to react and doesn't have paddle shifters to override those reactions. These may seem like nitpicks, but the Blazer RS is meant to be a sporty, performance-oriented SUV. Yet, for the same money, the Ford Edge ST goes a lot further toward that goal while boasting a whopping 30 more horsepower and 111 more pound-feet of torque.
The 1LT, meanwhile, goes for $34,690 and only adds rear privacy glass, a compact spare tire, an eight-way power driver seat, and satellite radio (for an extra $500 you get the 2LT and its only added feature, the turbo engine). At least you get access to extra options and paint choices, but the value is extremely questionable. You'll find that's a running theme when discussing the Blazer's pricing and feature content, especially the RS and Premier that can crest $50,000 when loaded with options. Competitors give you more feature content and/or space for the same (or much less) money.
You can find a full breakdown of features, specs and local pricing for each of the below trim levels here on Autoblog.
LS: $31,190
1LT: $34,690
2LT: $35,190
3LT: $39,390
RS: $42,890
Premier: $45,090
The government gave the Blazer perfect five-star crash ratings in all categories. At the time of this writing, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety had only subjected the Blazer to the moderate overlap front and side crash tests where it got the best-possible "Good" rating.
Autoblog accepts vehicle loans from auto manufacturers with a tank of gas and sometimes insurance for the purpose of evaluation and editorial content. Like most of the auto news industry, we also sometimes accept travel, lodging and event access for vehicle drive and news coverage opportunities. Our opinions and criticism remain our own — we do not accept sponsored editorial.
Source
2020 Chevrolet Blazer Review & Buying Guide | It sure isn't boring
This midsizer offers lots of style (but questionable value) in a staid, kid-hauler segment
James RiswickFeb 10th 2020 at 8:30AMWe'll say one thing for the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer, it isn't boring. By channeling the spiritof the Camaro, if not its literal styling, the Blazer brings some excitement to a midsize SUV segment mostly known for anonymous kid haulers or outdoorsy road trippers. It's definitely something for the suburban-bound who are willing to sacrifice some practicality for style.
The trouble is, the new Blazer doesn't go far enough beyond its truly compelling style. Its performance-oriented RS just doesn't provide enough of an exciting driving experience, while neither the RS nor the luxury-oriented Premier provide a suitably up-market cabin to justify sky-high price tags that can crest $50,000. The value proposition of lower trims is questionable as well, as their space, interior quality and performance essentially match cheaper compact SUVs like a Mazda CX-5 or Toyota RAV4. So while the 2020 Blazer may not be boring, it needs a bit more substance.
What's new for 2020?
A new middle-ground engine option enters the mix between the 193-horsepower base four-cylinder and the burly 308-hp V6. The new 2.0-liter turbo-four produces 230 hp and becomes the standard engine on the 2LT and 3LT trim levels. The base L and LT are now base-engine-only and are also paired exclusive to front-wheel drive. The RS and Premier are V6 and AWD only.What's the Blazer's interior and in-car technology like?
On the one hand, the Blazer interior impresses with its Camaro-inspired design elements — note the rotary air vents/climate controls in particular — that make it look as special inside as it does on the outside. Unfortunately, the quality of materials used is disappointing given the Blazer's price point. That's especially the case with the Premier and RS trims that can top $50,000, but even lower trim levels are no nicer than compact SUVs (Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4) that cost much less when similarly equipped. Quite simply, the Blazer either needs a lower price or a ritzier interior.At least the Blazer's infotainment offerings are better and more abundant than most. Every version gets an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 4G LTE in-car WiFi, OnStar and four USB ports, including a new USB-C port (the small one). That standard touchscreen is pretty easy to use with big, clear icons and a sensible menu structure.
How big is the Blazer?
The Blazer is a midsize crossover, with exterior dimensions that put it in the camp of such vehicles as the Ford Edge and Jeep Grand Cherokee (the Honda Passport also attends that camp but is far more spacious than the Blazer). Chevy's entry is notably wide, resulting in more shoulder room in the back seat relative the Edge and all compact SUVs. You're more likely to fit three across or fit people on either side of a child seat. However, rear seat legroom at 39.6 inches is only similar to larger compact SUVs like the Honda CR-Vand Toyota RAV4, and it has less headroom. That sleek, low roof may result in your hair grazing the headliner, and with the panoramic sunroof, you might even need to slouch or utilize the seatback's ample recline.The back seat does slide generously, making it easy to bring kids closer to those in front or free up extra cargo space. That's a good thing, since its on-paper cargo figures are unremarkable. There's 30.3 cubic feet with the seats raised and 64.2 when they are lowered completely flat thanks to a cleverly engineered seat bottom (see cargo video below). By contrast, the biggest compact models like the CR-V and Forester are in the mid 30s and 70s, respectively. Even Chevy's own Equinox has only a single cubic foot less of maximum cargo capacity than the Blazer.
What's the Blazer's performance and fuel economy?
The Chevy Blazer L and LT trim levels come standard with a 2.5-liter inline-four good for 193 horsepower and 188 pound-feet of torque. That's not a lot of grunt for a vehicle that weighs 3,810 pounds, and is grossly less than the base engines of most similarly sized midsize competitors. Like every Blazer engine, it's paired to a nine-speed automatic, but it only comes with front-wheel drive. Its EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg city, 27 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined is just OK given its meager output.For 2020, the 2LT and 3LT come standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four that produces 230 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is optional. Fuel economy is actually better than the base engine, as it returns an estimated 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined with FWD. It lowers to 21/27/23 with AWD.
Optional on the 2LT and 3LT, and standard on the RS and Premier, is a 3.6-liter V6 that pumps out 308 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. It's one of the quickest midsize crossovers as a result, hitting 60 mph in in the low 6-second range. Fuel economy is effective the same whether you get FWD (19/26/21) or AWD (18/25/21).
What's the Blazer like to drive?
Just as the Blazer features Camaro-inspired looks, its driving experience is definitely in the same spirit as Chevy's beloved muscle car. Even a basic four-cylinder Blazer riding on 18-inch wheels will whip around a cloverleaf with poise and minimal roll. The sportiest RS trim stays even flatter thanks to a sport-tuned suspension and the torque-vectoring AWD system.Unfortunately, power steering disappoints — at least for those expecting the Blazer to be the sporting SUV its styling implies. It just doesn't engage enough or provide sufficient feedback. Ride quality is also a mixed bag. Even the Blazer on 18s has a firmer ride than we've come to expect from GM's crossovers, but damping is quite good, and it's perfectly acceptable for a vehicle with sporting intentions. On the other hand, the optional 21-inch wheels yielded a tiresome ride when driving between 25 and 50 mph on anything but perfect pavement. We couldn't see the bumps, but we could sure feel them. It was admittedly more livable at highway speeds.
In terms of engine choice, the base four-cylinder is obviously weak for a segment dominated by V6 engines. That said, we actually found it to be perfectly serviceable and not as doggedly slow in practice as we were expecting. It's pretty much in keeping with the four cylinders found in compact SUVs (of course, the Blazer's price is not).
We have yet to sample the new turbo four engine, but the upgrade V6 provides strong performance that compares favorably to other V6-powered competitors. For the sport-tuned RS model, however, it just doesn't provide the sort of soundtrack or amped up exhaust note that's expected. The transmission is also lazy to react and doesn't have paddle shifters to override those reactions. These may seem like nitpicks, but the Blazer RS is meant to be a sporty, performance-oriented SUV. Yet, for the same money, the Ford Edge ST goes a lot further toward that goal while boasting a whopping 30 more horsepower and 111 more pound-feet of torque.
What more can I read about the Chevy Blazer?
2019 Chevy Blazer First Drive | Sporty duds, questionable value
Our first drive of the Blazer, including more in-depth information about its design and engineering. We drove both the V6 and base four-cylinder engines.2019 Chevy Blazer RS AWD Review
Our specific review of the RS trim level came to the same conclusion as our first experience with the new Blazer: the RS is too expensive for what you get.What features are available and what's the Blazer's price?
Pricing starts at $31,190 for the base Blazer LS, including the $1,195 destination charge. Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic bi-xenon headlights, LED running lights, proximity entry and push-button start, a rearview camera, a height-adjustable driver seat, cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, OnStar, 4G LTE WiFi, an 8-inch touchscreen, four USB ports, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker sound system. This is generous, but note this trim is only available with the base four-cylinder, front-wheel drive and a color choice of white, black and silver.The 1LT, meanwhile, goes for $34,690 and only adds rear privacy glass, a compact spare tire, an eight-way power driver seat, and satellite radio (for an extra $500 you get the 2LT and its only added feature, the turbo engine). At least you get access to extra options and paint choices, but the value is extremely questionable. You'll find that's a running theme when discussing the Blazer's pricing and feature content, especially the RS and Premier that can crest $50,000 when loaded with options. Competitors give you more feature content and/or space for the same (or much less) money.
You can find a full breakdown of features, specs and local pricing for each of the below trim levels here on Autoblog.
LS: $31,190
1LT: $34,690
2LT: $35,190
3LT: $39,390
RS: $42,890
Premier: $45,090
What are Blazer's safety equipment and crash ratings?
While many other SUVs come standard with accident avoidance technologies, the Blazer keeps them exclusive to the top trim levels, and even then, only as options. Blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning are included starting with the 3LT trim, but forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and GM's Safety Alert Seat can only be had as part of the Driver Confidence II package.The government gave the Blazer perfect five-star crash ratings in all categories. At the time of this writing, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety had only subjected the Blazer to the moderate overlap front and side crash tests where it got the best-possible "Good" rating.
Autoblog accepts vehicle loans from auto manufacturers with a tank of gas and sometimes insurance for the purpose of evaluation and editorial content. Like most of the auto news industry, we also sometimes accept travel, lodging and event access for vehicle drive and news coverage opportunities. Our opinions and criticism remain our own — we do not accept sponsored editorial.
04-17-20, 06:27 PM
#422
Driver School Candidate
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So I bought a Blazer RS
A few posts ago someone asked if anyone had purchased a Blazer, so I thought I'd reply and put my 2 cents in.
Given some of the current incentives in the domestic vehicle marketplace, I was intrigued and traded in my Nissan Murano. It was a good vehicle, 1 minor repair covered under warrenty, I can't complain about it, however nor was there anything terribly interesting about it either. Perhaps that influenced my decision a bit.
First, I drove a Ford Edge ST offered at $43.6k, loaded. The egine and handling were very impressive. However, both the interior and exterior did nothing for me. The Edge is quite overdue for a remodel. I did consider the Lincoln Nautilus, but retreated from the price level. (I had previously considered the RX350 and MDX, whole other off topic discussion there.)
To perform due diligence I set off to a Chevy dealership. Just to check off the boxes, the Camero was a no-go: not enough front shoulder room by far, and a pry bar is required to fit a baby seat in the 2nd row. Yeah, I'm a 49 year old father with dreams of something fun to drive. Perhaps that's the exact segment the Blazer is targeted at.
The salesperson pulled out a Red w/black accents exterior (reversed interior colir scheme) Blazer RS and I was struck by the styling both in and out. Having just been in a Camero it was obvious they had borrowed heavily, but I liked it. There is something about seeing the vehicle in person that made it much more interesting.
The test drive was also more than I had expected as well. While the twin turbo Edge ST felt like wielding a scaple, the Blazer RS was closer to swinging an axe. The shifts and acceleration were more violent than smooth ... and I liked it.
Finally back in the dealership, the price ended up at $42.6k, with 2k more to my trade, for a net 3k cheaoer than the Edge ST. I had simply enjoyed the look and feel or the vehicle more and it was cheaper and in my ideal color scheme, so I pulled the trigger and bought it. I had walked in expecting a higher net cost and a dissapointing experience. I was very wrong.
The next day I made an excuse to take an afternoon drive and really put the vehicle through it's paces. The handling was very good on turns - maybe it was the tire package or the sport AWD, but I got very little slippage even attacking a corner hard. As I get used to it, I'll increase the speed and angles, but for now, the Blazer exceeds my daring. The total acceleration experience was 85% of the Edge ST, and on a 4 mile circuit, there were few spots I could have used any more. Practically the 3.6L meets 99.8% of my driving needs - not saying I wouldn't be interested in a SS paxkage in a few years just for the excessiveness of it.
Finally, driving the Blazer RS made me remember drives with ny uncle in his Stingray or 68 GTO. I'm not saying there is any large similarity, but there was a hint of a memory in the little things: the front corner of the first row window, the angle of the windshield, dashboard and seats. Driving the Blazer made me remember, and that is enough to make the whole package worthwhile.
Given some of the current incentives in the domestic vehicle marketplace, I was intrigued and traded in my Nissan Murano. It was a good vehicle, 1 minor repair covered under warrenty, I can't complain about it, however nor was there anything terribly interesting about it either. Perhaps that influenced my decision a bit.
First, I drove a Ford Edge ST offered at $43.6k, loaded. The egine and handling were very impressive. However, both the interior and exterior did nothing for me. The Edge is quite overdue for a remodel. I did consider the Lincoln Nautilus, but retreated from the price level. (I had previously considered the RX350 and MDX, whole other off topic discussion there.)
To perform due diligence I set off to a Chevy dealership. Just to check off the boxes, the Camero was a no-go: not enough front shoulder room by far, and a pry bar is required to fit a baby seat in the 2nd row. Yeah, I'm a 49 year old father with dreams of something fun to drive. Perhaps that's the exact segment the Blazer is targeted at.
The salesperson pulled out a Red w/black accents exterior (reversed interior colir scheme) Blazer RS and I was struck by the styling both in and out. Having just been in a Camero it was obvious they had borrowed heavily, but I liked it. There is something about seeing the vehicle in person that made it much more interesting.
The test drive was also more than I had expected as well. While the twin turbo Edge ST felt like wielding a scaple, the Blazer RS was closer to swinging an axe. The shifts and acceleration were more violent than smooth ... and I liked it.
Finally back in the dealership, the price ended up at $42.6k, with 2k more to my trade, for a net 3k cheaoer than the Edge ST. I had simply enjoyed the look and feel or the vehicle more and it was cheaper and in my ideal color scheme, so I pulled the trigger and bought it. I had walked in expecting a higher net cost and a dissapointing experience. I was very wrong.
The next day I made an excuse to take an afternoon drive and really put the vehicle through it's paces. The handling was very good on turns - maybe it was the tire package or the sport AWD, but I got very little slippage even attacking a corner hard. As I get used to it, I'll increase the speed and angles, but for now, the Blazer exceeds my daring. The total acceleration experience was 85% of the Edge ST, and on a 4 mile circuit, there were few spots I could have used any more. Practically the 3.6L meets 99.8% of my driving needs - not saying I wouldn't be interested in a SS paxkage in a few years just for the excessiveness of it.
Finally, driving the Blazer RS made me remember drives with ny uncle in his Stingray or 68 GTO. I'm not saying there is any large similarity, but there was a hint of a memory in the little things: the front corner of the first row window, the angle of the windshield, dashboard and seats. Driving the Blazer made me remember, and that is enough to make the whole package worthwhile.
04-17-20, 06:37 PM
#423
Lexus Fanatic
Sounds like a pretty positive review to me, thanks for sharing!
04-18-20, 09:56 AM
#424
That's great! Congrats on the new Blazer. I think the chassis is poised and well-balanced for daily driving. Not overly soft, and not harsh. GM's technology would also be a bit more up to date than that Edge. We loved the Acadia Denali we had in the family.
04-18-20, 10:59 AM
#425
Super Moderator
One of these was on a driveway in my neighborhood today. Really attractive overall package. Much more "fun" and a little more carlike than the typical midsize CUV.
Congrats @AndrewD73 !
Congrats @AndrewD73 !
12-06-21, 03:57 PM
#426
Lexus Fanatic
New video yesterday. This really is a Camaro crossover according to Doug. At 7:20 I think Doug gets it right which really supports MM
Last edited by Toys4RJill; 12-06-21 at 04:03 PM.
12-06-21, 06:48 PM
#427
Lexus Fanatic
Good find, Jill.
Although Doug does some Scotty-Kilmer-style emoting and hand-wringing in the video, you're right....he absolutely nails the actual review, which is one of the most accurate ones I've ever seen him do. It's a perfectly fine crossover vehicle for typical suburban commuting/shopping/kid-hauling, with a touch of Camaro pony car styling (and I say that as someone who drives a GM crossover myself, which fits my driving-style)......but to put the name Blazer on it was absolutely ludicrous. 
Last edited by mmarshall; 12-06-21 at 06:58 PM.
12-06-21, 10:34 PM
#428
Lexus Test Driver
While I agree using the Blazer name on a CUV is a huge wasted opportunity, I have to side with GM a bit. When this vehicle was being considered, the market trend at the time was for CUV's, not for big-time, old-school off-roaders. So GM was chasing after the part of the market that was booming at the time. Unfortunately for them, a lot can change real fast. And within the time it took for GM to create and release the new Blazer, the market drastically shifted to the off-road SUV. But by then it was too late to change things, although it's likely even GM didn't realize they were going to be behind once again.
Either way, you have to consider how long it takes to green-light and develop an all new car. So for that, I don't feel they committed any big sins. GM had bad timing with this one, and the insult to injury is the use of the Blazer name. Doug, and I don't think anyone else here, has pointed the time-line thing out. But it should be noted.
Either way, you have to consider how long it takes to green-light and develop an all new car. So for that, I don't feel they committed any big sins. GM had bad timing with this one, and the insult to injury is the use of the Blazer name. Doug, and I don't think anyone else here, has pointed the time-line thing out. But it should be noted.
12-07-21, 12:54 AM
#429
While I agree using the Blazer name on a CUV is a huge wasted opportunity, I have to side with GM a bit. When this vehicle was being considered, the market trend at the time was for CUV's, not for big-time, old-school off-roaders. So GM was chasing after the part of the market that was booming at the time. Unfortunately for them, a lot can change real fast. And within the time it took for GM to create and release the new Blazer, the market drastically shifted to the off-road SUV. But by then it was too late to change things, although it's likely even GM didn't realize they were going to be behind once again.
Either way, you have to consider how long it takes to green-light and develop an all new car. So for that, I don't feel they committed any big sins. GM had bad timing with this one, and the insult to injury is the use of the Blazer name. Doug, and I don't think anyone else here, has pointed the time-line thing out. But it should be noted.
Either way, you have to consider how long it takes to green-light and develop an all new car. So for that, I don't feel they committed any big sins. GM had bad timing with this one, and the insult to injury is the use of the Blazer name. Doug, and I don't think anyone else here, has pointed the time-line thing out. But it should be noted.
I see that as total bull****. Jeep introduced the 4 door "JK" Wrangler in 2007, sold A TON of those things. And the sales were sustained over the years, showing it wasn't some sort of fashion item, there was legit demand for this type of truck. GM just simply misread the market trends. Which is kind of insane, they could look out their back door in rural Michigan and see all kinds of new/nearly new lifted Chevy/GMC trucks and old school K5 Blazers sporting big knobby tires since the 1980's.
Also even considering a 5 year development cycle, in 2014 GM knew that JK Wrangler was selling like hotcakes with no real competitors. In 2014 there were like 15 different small-midsized crossovers on the market in that $30-40k price range. So what does GM do, build another stupid transverse engine car based crossover called the Blazer, place it in a crowded field.
Also I take offense to the "Blazer" name, GM dragged that nameplate thru the mud, with both the 80's/90's S10 Blazer and 2000's era "Trailblazer". Mention "Chevy Blazer" to any average Joe Six Pack or Betty Sue, they'll remember that rattle trap rusted out POS S10 Blazer they bought for $1500 or the newer Trailblazer that they got suckered into at the "buy here/pay here" lot. Lets face it, there is NO EQUITY in the Blazer nameplate, it just reminds the average man of being poor in the 90's/00's/10's and not being able to afford anything better.
I hate to look at Chevrolet as a poverty brand, but damn they really did it to themselves with uninspired crap like the 80's/90's S10 Blazer, Luminas and 90's/00/10's era Malibus, Cavaliers/Colbalts, 2000's era all fleet Impalas,
Lets not mention the Daewoo South Korea Chevys like the Aveo, Sonic, Spark, new for 2021 "Trailblazer" made in S Korea, Chevrolet Trax, Buick Encore, Buick Encore GX.
I mean you shifted all your economy car production to S Korea. Yet Hyundai and Kia build more compelling/better designed products.
You can see why I shift a shady *** eye to GM, its not an American corporation anymore.
Chevrolet used to mean something more than the K-mart blue light special, aka the cheapest yet ****tiest car you could buy. 1940's/50's/60's Chevys might have been rather plain/lacking options, but you got all that good engineering, decent build quality, reliability, a huge service network(any idiot at a service station could fix a Chevy), plus a real sense of style. And you could make them as fancy or as plain as your budget allowed, they offered all the same options as more expensive brands.
Last edited by Aron9000; 12-07-21 at 01:43 AM.
12-07-21, 08:07 AM
#430
Lexus Fanatic
While I agree using the Blazer name on a CUV is a huge wasted opportunity, I have to side with GM a bit. When this vehicle was being considered, the market trend at the time was for CUV's, not for big-time, old-school off-roaders. So GM was chasing after the part of the market that was booming at the time. Unfortunately for them, a lot can change real fast. And within the time it took for GM to create and release the new Blazer, the market drastically shifted to the off-road SUV. But by then it was too late to change things, although it's likely even GM didn't realize they were going to be behind once again.
Either way, you have to consider how long it takes to green-light and develop an all new car. So for that, I don't feel they committed any big sins. GM had bad timing with this one, and the insult to injury is the use of the Blazer name. Doug, and I don't think anyone else here, has pointed the time-line thing out. But it should be noted.
Also, before you defend GM too much, Ford was also working on the Bronco and Bronco Sport for a good period of the time-frame that GM was working on the Blazer. Initial news of the upcoming Bronco, as I recall, stretched back to 2016 or 2017, although the actual introduction, for various reasons. was delayed until the 2021 model year.
12-07-21, 10:19 AM
#431
Lexus Test Driver
I see that as total bull****. Jeep introduced the 4 door "JK" Wrangler in 2007, sold A TON of those things. And the sales were sustained over the years, showing it wasn't some sort of fashion item, there was legit demand for this type of truck. GM just simply misread the market trends. Which is kind of insane, they could look out their back door in rural Michigan and see all kinds of new/nearly new lifted Chevy/GMC trucks and old school K5 Blazers sporting big knobby tires since the 1980's.
Also even considering a 5 year development cycle, in 2014 GM knew that JK Wrangler was selling like hotcakes with no real competitors. In 2014 there were like 15 different small-midsized crossovers on the market in that $30-40k price range. So what does GM do, build another stupid transverse engine car based crossover called the Blazer, place it in a crowded field.
Also I take offense to the "Blazer" name, GM dragged that nameplate thru the mud, with both the 80's/90's S10 Blazer and 2000's era "Trailblazer". Mention "Chevy Blazer" to any average Joe Six Pack or Betty Sue, they'll remember that rattle trap rusted out POS S10 Blazer they bought for $1500 or the newer Trailblazer that they got suckered into at the "buy here/pay here" lot. Lets face it, there is NO EQUITY in the Blazer nameplate, it just reminds the average man of being poor in the 90's/00's/10's and not being able to afford anything better.
I hate to look at Chevrolet as a poverty brand, but damn they really did it to themselves with uninspired crap like the 80's/90's S10 Blazer, Luminas and 90's/00/10's era Malibus, Cavaliers/Colbalts, 2000's era all fleet Impalas,
Lets not mention the Daewoo South Korea Chevys like the Aveo, Sonic, Spark, new for 2021 "Trailblazer" made in S Korea, Chevrolet Trax, Buick Encore, Buick Encore GX.
I mean you shifted all your economy car production to S Korea. Yet Hyundai and Kia build more compelling/better designed products.
You can see why I shift a shady *** eye to GM, its not an American corporation anymore.
Chevrolet used to mean something more than the K-mart blue light special, aka the cheapest yet ****tiest car you could buy. 1940's/50's/60's Chevys might have been rather plain/lacking options, but you got all that good engineering, decent build quality, reliability, a huge service network(any idiot at a service station could fix a Chevy), plus a real sense of style. And you could make them as fancy or as plain as your budget allowed, they offered all the same options as more expensive brands.
Also even considering a 5 year development cycle, in 2014 GM knew that JK Wrangler was selling like hotcakes with no real competitors. In 2014 there were like 15 different small-midsized crossovers on the market in that $30-40k price range. So what does GM do, build another stupid transverse engine car based crossover called the Blazer, place it in a crowded field.
Also I take offense to the "Blazer" name, GM dragged that nameplate thru the mud, with both the 80's/90's S10 Blazer and 2000's era "Trailblazer". Mention "Chevy Blazer" to any average Joe Six Pack or Betty Sue, they'll remember that rattle trap rusted out POS S10 Blazer they bought for $1500 or the newer Trailblazer that they got suckered into at the "buy here/pay here" lot. Lets face it, there is NO EQUITY in the Blazer nameplate, it just reminds the average man of being poor in the 90's/00's/10's and not being able to afford anything better.
I hate to look at Chevrolet as a poverty brand, but damn they really did it to themselves with uninspired crap like the 80's/90's S10 Blazer, Luminas and 90's/00/10's era Malibus, Cavaliers/Colbalts, 2000's era all fleet Impalas,
Lets not mention the Daewoo South Korea Chevys like the Aveo, Sonic, Spark, new for 2021 "Trailblazer" made in S Korea, Chevrolet Trax, Buick Encore, Buick Encore GX.
I mean you shifted all your economy car production to S Korea. Yet Hyundai and Kia build more compelling/better designed products.
You can see why I shift a shady *** eye to GM, its not an American corporation anymore.
Chevrolet used to mean something more than the K-mart blue light special, aka the cheapest yet ****tiest car you could buy. 1940's/50's/60's Chevys might have been rather plain/lacking options, but you got all that good engineering, decent build quality, reliability, a huge service network(any idiot at a service station could fix a Chevy), plus a real sense of style. And you could make them as fancy or as plain as your budget allowed, they offered all the same options as more expensive brands.
12-07-21, 11:52 AM
#432
Lexus Fanatic
they have stuff coming from China too..sprinkle in the fact that the Blazer is built in Mexico is a huge disappointment
Last edited by Toys4RJill; 12-07-21 at 12:10 PM.
12-07-21, 11:59 AM
#433
Lexus Fanatic
Like it or not, the entire auto industry has gone global. Can't necessarily single out GM....although Buick, to my knowledge, is the only company currently selling new vehicles in the U.S. (Envision) that actually come off a Chinese assembly line.
12-07-21, 01:27 PM
#434
Lexus Test Driver
Polestar 2 is made in China.
12-07-21, 02:08 PM
#435
Lexus Fanatic
While I agree using the Blazer name on a CUV is a huge wasted opportunity, I have to side with GM a bit. When this vehicle was being considered, the market trend at the time was for CUV's, not for big-time, old-school off-roaders. So GM was chasing after the part of the market that was booming at the time. Unfortunately for them, a lot can change real fast. And within the time it took for GM to create and release the new Blazer, the market drastically shifted to the off-road SUV. But by then it was too late to change things, although it's likely even GM didn't realize they were going to be behind once again.
Either way, you have to consider how long it takes to green-light and develop an all new car. So for that, I don't feel they committed any big sins. GM had bad timing with this one, and the insult to injury is the use of the Blazer name. Doug, and I don't think anyone else here, has pointed the time-line thing out. But it should be noted.
Either way, you have to consider how long it takes to green-light and develop an all new car. So for that, I don't feel they committed any big sins. GM had bad timing with this one, and the insult to injury is the use of the Blazer name. Doug, and I don't think anyone else here, has pointed the time-line thing out. But it should be noted.