(Baie Saint-Paul, Quebec) – It was first designed to be more utilitarian, but it’s more it’s sporty personality that makes it stand out: the new 2019 Chevrolet Blazer definitely has it all. Its aggressive look, advanced technology, and pleasant ride make it a worthy choice.
Available in three versions, the Basic Blazer, the sportier RS and the more luxurious Premier, the mid-size SUV is definitely in a class of its own in many ways. In terms of tires, for example, it is surprisingly well equipped, offering standard 20-inch wheels, or even optional 21-inch formats.
Our car was equipped with Continental tires whose handling has never sagged throughout our test. They were sometimes noisy (thank you damaged pavement of the region of Charlevoix), and sometimes lacked some absorption (the 21 inches are less comfortable, and make you feel the roughness of the road), but they were impeccable of stiffness in the tightest corners. Even under harder braking, they demonstrated their know-how without hesitation.
That being said, the Blazer itself has something to offer. Flanked, depending on the version, of a 193 horsepower 4-cylinder engine, or a 3.6-liter, 308-horsepower V6, the SUV provides a worthy effort. Better yet, the 9-speed automatic gearbox works with precision, despite the steepest climbs in the Charlevoix region. Those who visited Saint-Tite-les-Caps know what we are talking about!
Technology and more
What sets the Chevrolet Blazer apart is its look. The front grille is largely inspired by that of the Chevrolet Camaro, and the interior takes up styling of the muscle car.
Spacious, with a cargo area of over 1100 liters and seats that fold completely flat, it is difficult not to appreciate the practical effort of the designers. In fact, to be honest, at first glance the vehicle looks much smaller than it actually is.
Then there is techno. Here, get your imagination going because everything is there: electronic security systems, as it should be (though many are optional), the complete multimedia system, and a range of other unique options like the rear seat warning that remind you that you could have left something there, be it an animal or an object.
The real technological symbol, however, is the recognition of users and connected technologies. By defining your profile, married to your keychain, the car will recognize you on your next visit and place the seat, temperature and radio for you. It will even keep your destination in the GPS if necessary, as well as a lot of other information.
Then, if you checked the option of an internet subscription, you will have access to a “hot spot” to connect several devices, but you will also be entitled to an online search for any information. Do you want to put gas? Do a search on the GPS, it will not only give you a list of distance and stores per banner, but it will also advise you of the price of the liter!
You can even use your control panel, or your Chevrolet app, to reserve a space at your dealer for the next service session!
Conclusion
Stylish, undoubtedly, pleasant to drive and well equipped, the Chevrolet Blazer has found its own personality … if you agree to put the price. Because if in basic version, it costs $ 33 000, it will take $ 42 000 for the first AWD version, and a little over $ 60 000 for the most equipped version with all groups of options!
