2021 Chevrolet Blazer Review: The Camaro's Pragmatic Cousin
A long time ago, the Chevrolet Blazer was a commanding, body-on-frame pickup truck and a genuinely capable off-road adventure vehicle but it was discontinued in 1994. The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer is still part of the first-generation revival of the nameplate, now as a midsize crossover. After three years, it brings with it a small but meaningful array of updates to keep it fresh and relevant in the excessively popular segment. Chevrolet is admired throughout the USA, but with so many esteemed competitors such as the Ford Edge and Honda Passport, the Blazer crossover's underwhelming performance, subpar build quality, and relatively cramped interior really hurt its standing in the rankings. Fortunately, the 193-horsepower entry-spec 4-cylinder gas motor that holds it back so much can be replaced by either a turbo-four or V6, both of which improve performance significantly, but is it enough to mask its other flaws?
2021 Blazer Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 191.4 in | 112.7 in | 67.0 in | 76.7 in | 66.4 in | 66.2 in | 3,782.0 lbs |
2021 Blazer Performance
2021 Chevrolet Blazer Handling and Driving Impressions
2021 Blazer Interior
2021 Blazer Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Warranty Note | Basic | Drivetrain | Drivetrain Note | Rust-Through | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance | Roadside Assistance Note | Maintenance Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preliminary 2021 Warranty | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | Qualified Fleet Purchases: 5 Years/100,000 Miles | 6 Years / 100,000 Miles | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | Qualified Fleet Purchases: 5 Years/100,000 Miles | 1 Year/1 Visit |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
| Overall Rating | Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Side Crash Rating | Rollover Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
Verdict: Is the 2021 Chevrolet Blazer A Good Crossover SUV?
If you avoid the entry-spec L and 1LT, then there's a lot you'll be able to enjoy from the 2021 Chevrolet Blazer. Mid- and top-spec Blazers come with either the turbo-four engine or the V6, both of which imbue the midsize crossover with the pep it needs to feel rather pleasant to drive and up to the task of regularly hauling passengers and cargo. The turbocharged motor even offers superior fuel economy than the base engine, you need to opt for one of the stronger units to power the all-wheel drivetrain. Nevertheless, the Blazer carries a really cool and novel crossover aesthetic that even bears some of the Camaro's design cues, outside and in. It may not be the most spacious crossover in the segment, but its cabin is comfortable enough and comes outfitted with a good selection of creature comforts, conveniences, and safety technology. The latest NHTSA review of the 2021 Chevrolet Blazer resulted in an exemplary safety rating, which is augmented with a proven reliability record. If you're looking for a pragmatic 5-door crossover ideal for a small family and running daily errands, the Blazer is an excellent choice.
What Chevrolet Blazer Model Should I Buy?
To receive the most value from the Blazer in its powertrain specifications and overall features, you'll want to go for either the 3LT, RS, or the Premier. We'd choose the RS, which comes standard with the V6 engine. Along with its tighter steering dynamics and re-tuned suspension, this makes it quite fun to drive. Regardless of the drivetrain you want, FWD or AWD, the RS will also be able to tow a proper 4,500 lbs, which can be really beneficial for avid vacationers. We'd then also recommend opting in the Enhanced Convenience Package, which upgrades the infotainment system with an eight-speaker Bose sound system and adds a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column, ventilated front seats with driver-seat memory, and heated outboard rear seats. The price of a 2021 Chevrolet Blazer crossover with all these specs starts at $43,255.