The Blazer nameplate has been around for decades, but I had yet to test the reincarnation of the model until recently when I got behind the wheel of the 2023 Chevrolet Blazer AWD RS.
It is offered in four trims, starting with the LT all the way up to the Premier. Our tester was the RS, which is the second-highest trim, with a starting price of $50,653. After the options on our vehicle were added on, the final cost comes to $58,908.
Some of the notable additions are a black two-tone roof ($650), 21-inch high gloss black wheels ($1,195), the Safety Plus Package ($1,615) and the Convenience Plus Package ($1,095), which includes front ventilated seats, and heated rear outboard seats, among other things.
Powertrain: There are two engines available on the Blazer, starting with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder on the LT trims. All other iterations of the model have a 3.6L V6 that delivers 308 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. It is paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission, which is pretty efficient in how it handles all that power.
The estimated combined fuel efficiency of the Blazer is 11.0 litres per 100 kilometres, while I returned an average of 12.6 L/100 km.
Exterior: The RS trim of the Blazer is a tad more eye-catching than the base model, thanks in part to that two-tone exterior – black roof/red paint – as well as the blacked-out grille.
The combination of those features, and the optional wheels, give the RS a sportier look and appeal to it.
The slim headlights up front blend nicely into a thin upper portion of the grille, while the side panels are nicely sculpted to enhance the look of the Blazer.
The RS also features more black trims around the entire perimeter of the lower panels on the vehicle, compared to a mix of black and grey on other trims.
Looking at all four trims, the RS is, in my opinion, the option for you if you want a vehicle that stands out.
Interior: Inside, occupants are welcomed into a nicely laid out and cozy cabin on the blazer.
The dash is clean, with large air vents that have functional rings around them that allows you to adjust the temperature. The other controls are neatly arranged – with climate functions just above the vents, and audio system buttons lumped together near the infotainment screen.
I found the front seats, which are heated and cooled, to be quite comfortable, while rear occupants benefit from generous head and legroom, even for taller adults.
The black leather and red accent stitching throughout elevate the cabin on the RS compared with the base trim.
And while the Blazer RS offered the option of having your rearview mirror display a camera view as part of the Safety Plus Package, I left it mostly on the good old mirror as I am still not used to seeing those screens.
Infotainment: The Blazer RS features a 10.2-inch touchscreen and the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Premium system to power it.
The RS also comes standard with a Bose premium 8-speaker audio system for premium sound quality.
As is the case with most vehicles these days, it comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – both wireless – as well as satellite radio. The RS also features connected navigation.
Drive: With that V6, the Blazer RS AWD is not lacking in the get up and go factor. It has lots of power when needed, especially when passing slower vehicles out on the highway.
Overall, I felt it delivered a solid drive, with excellent handling and a suspension that did a good job of keeping occupants comfortable.
Conclusion: While the name may have a long history, this Blazer is writing its own path forward.
The RS looks really sharp and includes a ton of sought-after features.
2023 Chevrolet Blazer AWD RS
2023 Chevrolet Blazer AWD RS
2023 Chevrolet Blazer AWD RS
2023 Chevrolet Blazer AWD RS
2023 Chevrolet Blazer AWD RS
2023 Chevrolet Blazer AWD RS
It can get a bit pricey, however, so that may deter some from looking at the Blazer. Nevertheless, should this be your vehicle of choice, the RS trim would be my go-to option.
2023 Chevrolet Blazer AWD RS
Price as tested: $58,908.00
Freight: $1,995.00
Configuration: Front engine/All-wheel drive
Engine/transmission: 3.6-litre V6/ 9-speed automatic
Power/torque: 308 horsepower/ 270 lb-ft of torque
Fuel (capacity): Regular (82 L)
Combined fuel economy ratings (L/100 km): 11.0 L/100 km
Observed fuel economy (L/100 km): 12.6 L/100 km
Warranties: 3-years/60,000 km (basic)
Competitors: Honda Passport, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Nissan Murano, Mazda CX-5
Website: Chevrolet Canada