New Atlas Ranks 2019 Blazer as “Upscale, Confident, and Exciting”

As the reports and various auto news outlets online confirmed that the Blazer surely was coming back last year, all of us here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse instantly became excited. When more spy shots became available it was evident that heavy styling cues were taken from the Camaro, and as soon as the Blazer hit showrooms, it gained massive attention. It is not quite the same Blazer's personality and flair from the 1990s, and resides in the sweet spot between the smaller Equinox and larger Traverse.

Auto writer Aaron Turpen of New Atlas took a lengthy spin and claimed that the very comfortable ride, excellent infotainment system, and stately drive quality were all traits that swayed him off the bat to give the Blazer very high marks. The trim selection begins with the base level “L”, then on up to Blazer, with the highest being RS and Premier. Engine choices are the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that cranks out 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque, while higher trim levels derive power from a 3.6-liter 6-cylinder engine that doles out 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission handles shifting duty, and all-wheel-drive is an option with the two top trim levels.

The New Atlas group had the pleasure of driving the 2019 Blazer equipped with the top-of-the-line Premier package, which includes forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and pedestrian detection. They reflected that the 3.6-liter engine offered up aggressive performance straight from the line and that the drive quality and handling were excellent by current standards. Tech lovers are going to feel right at home with the Blazer's four USB ports as well as top-notch infotainment system. Aaron claimed that this infotainment system was also his “favorite in the business”, due to very responsive touch, and extras such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

With the towing equipment installed and V6 engine, the Blazer can lug a very impressive 4,500 lbs, and the gang's overall report was that after a few lengthy test drives that this is a vehicle with a satisfying and comfortable drive, A+ interior, and practical daily drive dynamic. Coming with the 2020 model will be a turbocharged 4-cylinder option, and we hope that we can see you here this fall to test drive and rank the Blazer for your own opinion's sake!

As we take a moment to remember our favorite Blazers through the years, one of the models we loved most was the S-10 Blazer from 1982: offered in a two-door body style, this was warmly referred to many times over as the “Drummer's choice”. Many percussionists found great usefulness in the hybrid of large car and truck, as well as ample storage space for their equipment. We will share with you more in-depth reviews and test drive experiences with the new Blazer as they continue to find their way into our newswires, and can't wait for you to come to check out closely just how feature-rich and performance-driven the new Blazer is!