1 year ago

Overview
The 2023 Chevy Blazer is a two-row, mid-size SUV that'll satisfy people who like to drive and want to drive something that stands out. While it has a generous amount of cargo and passenger space, the quality of its cabin materials can't match similarly priced rivals such as the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento. Some of the Blazer's top options are also reserved for the most expensive models, which impacts its value proposition versus more desirable classmates. The Chevy does shine out on the open road, where it turns, brakes, and rides really well. It comes standard with front-wheel drive and either a 228-hp turbo-four or a 308-hp V-6. Both engines are available with all-wheel drive, but we prefer the six's quicker acceleration and ability to tow up to 4500 pounds. As enjoyable as the 2023 Blazer can be to drive, it can't match the overall skillset of competitors such as the Honda Passport and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

What's New for 2023?
For 2023, Chevy gives the Blazer a facelift that makes the mid-size SUV look even more distinctive. The updates apply largely to the front end, with a new grille design and fresh lighting elements. Out back the taillights also have a new look and there's a set of newly designed wheels, in sizes 18 to 21 inches. The exterior of the Blazer also benefits from more paint colors with the addition of Fountain Blue, Sterling Gray, Copper Bronze, and Radiant Red; Nightshift Blue is now available on the RS trim level, too. The interior is upgraded with new standard tech features such as a new 10-inch touchscreen and a wireless charging pad.

Pricing and Which One to Buy
2LT $35,000 (est)
LT $36,195
3LT $39,000 (est)
RS $43,895
Premier $43,895

We recommend the 3LT trim level, mainly because it unlocks the V-6 engine option, which increases the max towing capacity from 3500 to 4500 pounds, when equipped with the trailering equipment, of course. All-wheel drive is available for another $2700. We'd choose the V-6 and the towing package and add the Sound and Technology package that includes a 120-volt outlet, a 360-degree camera system, additional USB ports, a Bose stereo, and a rearview camera mirror.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Blazer features a standard a 228-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and an optional 308-hp 3.6-liter V-6. Both pair with a nine-speed automatic transmission and either front- or all-wheel drive. The front-drive, turbo-four version has sufficient power for getting around town and highway duty. However, the V-6 delivers impressive acceleration and provides added confidence when passing on the highway. Quick as the last Blazer RS we tested was, the automatic transmission was slow to downshift when we wanted a quick burst of acceleration. The four-cylinder can tow up to 1500 pounds, while the V-6 version can handle up to 4500 pounds. With steady composure and accurate steering, the Blazer is easily the best-driving crossover to wear the Chevrolet bow tie. It was confident and responsive on twisty sections of road, especially the RS model, which has exclusive steering and suspension tuning. Even without the sportier setup found on the RS, the Blazer is more engaging than many competitors. Its standard 18-inch wheel-and-tire combo provided a smoother and quieter ride than the RS model that wore large 21-inchers, which thudded over bumpy roads. Thankfully, both models remained hushed on even surfaces and at highway speed. The steering's precise feedback was satisfying during spirited sessions yet fluid at low speed. The firm brake pedal immediately responded to our inputs, and the brakes brought our Blazer RS test vehicle to a stop from 70 mph in an impressive 165 feet.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The Blazer with the standard turbo four is rated at up to 22 mpg city and 29 highway. The V-6 version is slightly thirstier, with estimates up to 20 mpg city and 27 highway. We haven't tested the four-cylinder version on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, but the all-wheel-drive, V-6 Blazer earned 24 mpg during our real-world test. The Honda Passport and Hyundai Santa Fe both earned 27 mpg in the same test. For more information about the Blazer's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

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