2023 Chevrolet Blazer – chevrolet.com | Shop 2023 Chevrolet Blazer on Carsforsale.com
A far cry from the O.G. K5 Blazer, who’s history we look at here, the 2023 Chevrolet Blazer is now a midsize crossover that was introduced in 2019. It slots between the Equinox and Traverse in Chevy’s crowded SUV roster, standing out with Camaro styling, particularly on RS versions.
Updates from the 2022 model, that we review here, include a full refresh of the front fascia and lighting designs on both ends. A 10.2-inch infotainment screen is newly standard, wireless phone charging is now available on every model, and a host of new wheel styles – up to 21-inches – are available.
Camaro-esque front end
Standard 10-inch touchscreen
Ample rear legroom
Busy cabin layout
Best gear requires a package
Can get pricey
A sharp-dressed SUV
It’s funny how a two-liter engine making 228 horsepower is not as impressive, in hp/liter terms, as it was in the not-so-distant past. That’s what the base turbocharged inline-4 found on most 2023 Chevrolet Blazers is rated for, along with 258 lb-ft of torque.
There is also a naturally aspirated 3.6L V6 that puts down a solid 308 horsepower and 270 torques and is optional on 3LT and Premier models for just $500 extra or buy a Blazer RS which only comes with this powerplant. For those on the electrified train, check out our coverage of the upcoming Blazer EV.
Regardless of engine choice, a HydraMatic 9-speed automatic transmission handles shifting duty, sending power to the front wheels. Adding AWD will cost you $2,700 and is available on all four Blazer models. An RS with AWD receives a unique dual-clutch AWD system capable of directing torque to individual rear wheels along with trim-exclusive tuning for the steering and suspension.
Every 2023 Blazer is built with a MacPherson front strut and five-link independent rear suspension that is designed for poised dynamics. However, the RS-specific tune combined with the larger motor and 20-inch rubber adds a legitimate bump in driving performance to go along with the more aggressive styling.
The base 2023 Chevrolet Blazer can tow 1,500 pounds, whether you have the four- or six-cylinder motor. Adding the Trailering package to the small motor increases tow capacity to 3,250 pounds and 4,500 pounds on the V6, values which remain the same in FWD and AWD configurations. Costing $650, that package brings a heavy-duty cooling system, 7-pin wiring harness, hitch view tech, and trailer sway control.
Base Blazers, with the 2.0L inline-4, can expect to see 22 mpg around town and 29 on the highway. Opting for the more powerful V6 brings fuel efficiency down to 19/27 mpg in city/highway driving. In both cases, the AWD system reduces the highway rating by one mpg. An upside to the bigger motor is a larger 22-gallon gas tank that translates to nearly 600 miles of highway range.
Thanks to a sliding rear bench, the two-row 2023 Blazer offers back-seat passengers a comfortable 40 inches of legroom, which is in line with the likes of a Ford Edge and Honda Passport. That seat can split-fold in a 60-40 configuration for cargo flexibility and fold completely flat to open up 64 cubic feet of space. Unfortunately, this volume is way off the mark of the aforementioned competition – a Passport offers 78 cubes of cargo hauling capacity.
From a styling perspective, the cabin layout is on the busy side with loads of buttons and angles. However, even base models with cloth upholstery can be had with a two-tone scheme that lends an upscale vibe. Perforated leather is available further up the trim ladder.
One of the Blazer’s nifty tricks are those turbine-like HVAC vents that owners can twist to adjust temperature settings. Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard and heated front seats are included on 3LT grade and above, but luxurious amenities like seat ventilation and a digital rearview mirror require a package.
New this year, every 2023 Blazer comes with a 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen display that has the convenience of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Other standard tech includes Wi-Fi capability, a 3-month trial of SiriusXM 360L, and a 3-year trial of Chevy’s Remote Access app that allows for phone-based control of the door locks and engine startup.
An 8-inch digital instrument panel screen, built-in navigation, wireless charging pad, and 8-speaker Bose audio system are included on RS and Premier models, but systems like the Surround Vision camera and rear camera mirror are locked within packages on all models.
Chevy Safety Assist, the automaker’s suite of advanced driver aids, is standard across the 2023 Blazer lineup. It includes forward collision alert with automated emergency braking and pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist and departure warning, Intellibeam automatic high beam control, and following distance indicator.
Adaptive Cruise Control is available on upper-level models, but GM does not make their Super Cruise semi-autonomous tech available here. For more info on how these systems work, be sure to see our explainer article. Seven airbags are standard and the new Blazer earns a 5-star overall crash test rating from NHTSA.
Base Blazer 2LT comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, and LED lighting all around. It is also fitted with a power-adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and cloth upholstery. Wireless Apple and Android mirroring is handled with the 10-inch touchscreen display and like every 2023 Blazer, it comes with a Rear Seat Reminder and Teen Driver feature.
Upgrades to the 3LT model include auto-dimming exterior mirrors, heated front seats, and Jet Black perforated leather upholstery. Reverse sonar, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are also included here. A power-operated panoramic sunroof can be optioned for an extra $1,595.
The sporty RS model comes with an exclusive front-end treatment and access to the in-your-face Nitro Yellow Metallic paint job with a black roof. Inside, ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel, and black leather with the choice of red or blue accents further spice things up.
Featuring a similar level of content as the RS, Premier models focus on the chrome and come with a hands-free liftgate and 20-inch rims. Seats are trimmed in leather with sueded microfiber inserts that can be had in a handsome Jet Black and Maple Sugar scheme. The Bose stereo, wireless charging pad, and navigation are included, but the Safety Alert Seat, Adaptive Cruise Control, and digital rearview mirror require the $1,375 Driver Confidence II package.
Chevy’s warranty is industry-average on the bumper-to-bumper coverage at 3-years/36,000-miles and powertrain at 5-years/60,000 miles. They do include the first maintenance visit within the first year of ownership, but competitors like Hyundai include three years of complimentary service. There is also 24/7 roadside assistance on hand for five years or 60,000 miles.
2023 Chevrolet Blazer – chevrolet.com | Shop 2023 Chevrolet Blazer on Carsforsale.com
With so many options to consider in the crowded midsize crossover segment, the 2023 Chevrolet Blazer does a commendable job of standing out from what can be a bland field with sharp styling. That 308-hp V6 is pretty nice too. Cargo space leaves something to be desired and Chevy makes it tough to tap the best tech and amenities without paying up, but on the whole, I like this Blazer.
You should consider adding the V6 as it only costs an extra $500, but is a whole lot more powerful. My money would land on an RS with its suspension refinements and snazzier looks. If you’re in the market, look over the latest new car incentives to see what you can leverage at the dealership.