It’s been more than a decade since the Chevrolet Blazer was sold in the U.S. Chevy is bringing it back for 2019 but some aspects of the design may disappoint fans of the model who enjoyed the beefy exteriors and true truck-like design of past models. Here’s what we know for sure:
1.) It’s not a truck. The 2019 Chevrolet Blazer will be a crossover that fits into Chevy’s product lineup between the Equinox and Traverse. Think of it as Chevrolet’s Nissan Murano and you’ll get a better idea of its customer space.
2.) It’s not a hybrid. The new Chevy will come with either a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.6-liter V6 under its hood. Both engines are paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The smaller engine offers 193 horsepower and 188 pound-feet of torque while the larger power plant puts out 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque.
3.) It’s not going to directly compete with the Ford Bronco. The new Bronco arrives on dealer lots in 2020 and it’s positioned to be a nostalgia-filled throwback for a modern era. The Blazer isn’t that, much to some enthusiasts’ chagrin.
4.) It’s not lacking creature comforts. Since this isn’t meant to tackle the tough trails at Moab, Chevrolet has made the Blazer a little plusher and filled with integrated technologies than the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota 4Runner. In the cabin, you’ll find a standard 8-inch touch screen, 4G LTE Wi-Fi, six USB ports, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Wireless charging and a rear camera mirror are available in higher trims.
Chevrolet is also touting a number of new technologies available in the Blazer when it goes on sale including an electronic-locking glove box, which is activated when you put the SUV in Valet Mode and Comfort-open windows allow a driver or emergency personnel to lower a car’s windows using the key fob.
5.) It’s not going to be long before it arrives on dealer lots. The SUV is slated to make its debut on dealer lots in early 2019. An exact arrival date and pricing will be announced closer to the start of the new year.