Chevrolet is resurrecting the Blazer as a sporty mid-sized crossover

(June 22, 2018) ATLANTA — Chevrolet is raising the bar on crossover design with the introduction of the 2019 Blazer as the newest member of the industry’s broadest, freshest crossover and SUV lineup since 2015. The all-new contemporary mid-size SUV is rooted in attention-grabbing design with seamlessly integrated customer-focused technologies and superb functionality.

General Motors is aiming for more gains in the booming American market for utility vehicles by resurrecting the Chevrolet Blazer nameplate as a sporty crossover. The Blazer was discontinued in 2005 amid slow sales.

“Chevrolet has been at the forefront of each of the major automotive industry trends by anticipating consumer demand and delivering innovative products like Bolt EV, Colorado and Trax,” said Alan Batey, president of GM North America and head of Global Chevrolet. “The introduction of the all-new Blazer builds on that momentum and further strengthens the most comprehensive lineup of crossovers and SUVs on the market today.”

Slotting between the Equinox and Traverse, the 2019 Blazer will offer unique design elements on each model, appealing to customers seeking distinctive styling and outstanding utility.

Highlights include bold styling that features a strong grille and muscular proportions; driver-centric interior and distinctive looks on all models;  a model range includes sporty RS and up-level Premier models; five-passenger seating with up to 64.2 cubic feet of cargo space with second-row seats folded flat; available panoramic dual-pane power sunroof; standard 2.5L I-4 and available 3.6L V-6 engines, each backed by a nine-speed automatic transmission; advanced twin-clutch AWD system; and 4,500 pounds of maximum towing capacity.
   
Chevrolet says the 2019 Blazer is "the boldest, most progressive expression of the Chevrolet crossover design theme. A wide stance, tight proportions, a high beltline and dramatic sculpting give it a toned, athletic appearance from all angles."

“The Blazer has attitude,” said John Cafaro, executive director, Global Chevrolet Design. “It looks commanding on the road, while fulfilling the promise of versatility at the heart of every Chevy crossover and SUV.”

Each model in the lineup offers a unique look with distinct styling to suit different customers’ tastes, including unique grille appearances, additional bright chrome on the Premier trim and a more sinister-looking, blacked-out appearance for the Blazer RS.

The Blazer’s cabin echoes the bold exterior theme with sporty good looks. The design emphasizes space, craftsmanship and customer personalization, with a wide range of interior styling choices for the different models, achieved through several color and trim choices. Sporty details include a padded knee area, round air vents and grab handles on the doors.

The new Blazer also offers a Chevrolet-first Cargo Management System, standard on RS and Premier models. It features a rail system and cargo fence to help secure smaller items by dividing the cargo area.

The new Blazer is powered by a standard 2.5L I-4 engine rated at 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. A 3.6L V-6 is also available, offering 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque (365 Nm).

Both direct-injected engines feature intelligent stop/start technology that seamlessly shuts off the engine when power is not needed, based on a variety of driving factors, and both are paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.

“The Chevrolet Blazer is more than just good looks,” said Waqar Hashim, Blazer chief engineer. “Both the Ecotec 2.5L four-cylinder engine and 3.6L V-6 engine are paired to Chevrolet’s nine-speed automatic transmission, providing drivers a great balance between performance and efficiency.”

The Chevrolet Blazer will arrive at U.S. dealerships in early 2019. Additional details and pricing will be announced closer to the start of production.