2019 Chevrolet Blazer: We're Heading to California to Drive it

Published on January 22, 2019 in Spotlight on by William Clavey

This week, The Car Guide is heading to San Diego, California to test the all-new 2019 Chevrolet Blazer.

Back, But Different

The Blazer returns after a fourteen-year hiatus, but that name has existed for over 35 years within Chevrolet’s lineup, often associated with adventure and ruggedness. There was even a time when there were two Blazers on the road—a small one and a big one.

The fact that it has returned is indeed very exciting, but while many enthusiasts were expecting a full-on off-road machine—something that could take on the Jeep Wrangler and the upcoming Ford Bronco—the end product is somewhat different.

Photo: General Motors of Canada Ltd.

The new Blazer will instead sit within the five-passenger, midsize crossover segment, and will mainly rival vehicles such as the Nissan Murano, Ford Explorer and the upcoming Honda Passport. Sold at an entry price of $35,200 (before freight and destination), the Blazer will be squeezed between the Equinox and the Traverse within Chevrolet’s lineup.

Two engines will power it, either a 2.5-litre four cylinder good for 193 horsepower, or a 3.6-litre V6 developing 306 horsepower. Both engines will be paired to a nine-speed automatic. Of course, all-wheel drive will come as an option, with front-wheel drive as standard. As they say, they don’t build them like they used to.

GMC Off-roading

While we’ll be there, General Motors will also give us an opportunity do some good-old fashion off-roading behind the wheel of the GMC Sierra’s off-road spec model, the AT4. We’re also told that there will be a special unveiling from GMC. Could it be the return of the Jimmy? We’re not sure, but that mystery vehicle will undoubtedly have something to do with off-roading.

Stay tuned for our first drive report for all the details.

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