2023 Chevy Blazer

　　

2023 Chevrolet Blazer Review

byRyan ZumMallenContributor

　　Ryan ZumMallen has worked in the automotive industry since 2012. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Ryan has also contributed to Road & Track, Autoweek, Trucks.com and more. In 2019, Ryan published his first book, Slow Car Fast, on the millennial generation and its unique take on modern car culture.

　　After a few years on the market, the Chevrolet Blazer gets a new look for 2023. Its nose is a little leaner, the front grille is more windswept and the squinty headlights are slightly … well, more squinty. There are also significant upgrades inside the Blazer, including a 10-inch touchscreen that comes standard on every version. The Blazer has built a commendable reputation since this most recent generation debuted in 2019, and these improvements aim to keep it fresh for at least a few more years.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Chevrolet Blazer 2LT 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$188/mo  for Blazer 2LT

　　Blazer 2LT

　　2LT 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) (Most Popular) - $35,100 MSRP2LT 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $37,800 MSRP3LT 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $39,300 MSRP3LT 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $42,000 MSRPRS 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A) - $42,800 MSRPRS 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) - $45,700 MSRPPremier 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $42,800 MSRPPremier 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $45,700 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　The Blazer, though, faces tough competition from other midsize SUVs, and it doesn't have standout strengths or unique personality quirks to set it apart. After all, this is not the rough and romping body-on-frame Blazer SUV from decades ago. Its more family-friendly approach leaves it vulnerable to competitors such as the Honda Passport and Volkswagen Atlas, while crosstown rival Ford Bronco made waves for returning to its hardcore roots. Alas, the Blazer has some self-imposed hurdles to overcome in such a crowded field. But there is plenty to like about it too. Read on to see how we think this Chevy stacks up and why.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Average

　　7.3

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

7.5/10

　　How does the Blazer drive? Strong acceleration and crisp handling are two of the Blazer's hallmarks. The V6-powered Blazer we tested sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. That's quick for this type of vehicle and a bit better than the Honda Passport and the Ford Edge with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Blazer is also agile through turns, with well-controlled body roll.

　　It's not all roses, however. Slow and heavy steering — combined with rampant torque steer, an undesirable trait where the steering wheel tugs in your hands when you mash the gas — negates most of the Blazer's sporting pretensions. Optional all-wheel drive is meant more for wet-weather driving than any legitimate off-road use, which is also hampered by the Blazer's lower ride height compared to the Jeep Cherokee or Subaru Outback.

　　

Comfort

7.0/10

　　How comfortable is the Blazer? For the most part, the Blazer delivers the on-road comfort you expect from a modern SUV. The ride is stable and controlled without being overly harsh. The front seats are well bolstered and remain supportive for long stretches. The rear seats are fairly flat but are set at a comfortable angle and height.

　　The Blazer isn't particularly quiet — the cabin is awash in wind, road and tire noise as you cruise along the highway. You might have to raise your voice to talk with rear passengers. The climate control system takes a while to warm the cabin, and the seat heaters are slow to activate.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below