The 2023 Chevy Blazer line is back, and we’re excited. If anyone knows how to build a beautiful and functional SUV that can fit the family and their luggage, it’s Chevrolet! This vehicle went back into production in late 2018 and was released as an all-new 2019 model. Chevy previously released a Blazer back in 1969, but it was a two-door SUV based on a truck platform. You may be most familiar, however, with the ’90s update based on the compact Chevy S-10 truck. The newest vehicle is now a four-door mid-size crossover SUV.
Breaking Down the Blazer Trim Levels
If you’re a hardcore Chevy or classic car enthusiast, you may be disappointed that the new Blazer is a crossover instead of being more similar to its truck-based predecessors. However, we found lots to love on this updated SUV. We love the aggressive styling cues taken from the Camaro that are featured both inside and out. The Blazer’s handling is taught and responsive, too. The one drawback is that things can get pricey quickly, which is why we’re breaking down each trim level.
2LT
The entry-level 2023 Chevrolet Blazer 2LT includes a 228-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. You can also elect for optional four-wheel drive. You’ll have to look at higher trims if you’re looking for a 4×4.
The 2LT comes standard with a ton of features such as an 10.2-inch touchscreen, six-speaker audio system, satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless device charging and four USB ports. Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa are all supported as well. You’ll also get dual-zone climate control with this trim.
Active noise cancellation, an HD rear vision camera, tire pressure monitoring, and stability control, are all standard. Other safety features include lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The starting MSRP for this trim is $35,100.
3LT
The 3LT trim is where things start to get really interesting. The standard engine on this trim is the four-cylinder but you can upgrade to the 3.6L V6 that comes with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The four-cylinder version starts at $39,300, while the V6 will set you back at least $39,800.
Those prices come with leather seating (obviously), heated front seats, a power programmable liftgate, and a suite of advanced safety features. This includes such things as rear cross-traffic alerts, rear park assist, and lane change alert with side blind zone alerts. Turn indicators also come standard on the side-view mirrors.
With these features, this is honestly where buyers should first begin their search. But with the price creeping up toward $40,000, competitors might offer more compelling options that provide more bang for your buck. The Honda Passport is well-equipped with safety features for under this price. The Ford Edge has more space in this segment at this price point. However, the Blazer edges ahead of both in the styling department, if that’s more important to you.
RS
The RS model takes everything up a notch. You’ll get not only exterior styling upgrades like black exterior accents and 20-inch wheels, but you’ll also plenty of upgrades to the interior as well. Navigation, a heated steering wheel, additional USB ports and red interior accents are all standard with this model. A hands-free power liftgate is offered for your convenience.
The Chevrolet bowtie on the front and the back of the vehicle (as well as on the steering wheel) are now blacked out instead of the typical gold color. Furthermore, the front grille loses its metallic accent in favor of a black one. The interior black leather seating features red RS accent stitching, and the air vents have red accents as well. Even the wheels feature a dynamic serrated design and are larger at 20 inches.
The few tech upgrades include a gesture power liftgate and the addition of navigation to the infotainment system. A FWD version starts at $42,800 while an AWD powertrain is $45,700. The 3.6L V6 is the only engine offering.
Premier
The 2023 Chevy Blazer Premier is the top-of-the-line trim. The starting MSRP for the four-cylinder version is $42,800, and the V6 offering comes in at $43,300. Some of the standard features are chrome-trimmed horizontal front grille, chrome roof rails, heated and ventilated seats front seats, and heated rear seats. While we’re mentioning seats, a Premier trim-only color is offered that features “Maple Sugar” tan seats and door panels with some corresponding accenting on the black dash. The engine remains unchanged from the RS trim.
(featured image via Chevrolet Pressroom)
