At a special event in Atlanta, Georgia, Chevrolet surprised the automotive press with the unexpected revival of an old model name and unveiling of a new SUV. It's been almost 14 years since the Blazer name was applied to a Chevy, but that all changes with the 2019 Chevrolet Blazer, which slots in between the Equinox and Traverse.
At first glance, the new five-passenger Blazer is unique among other crossovers for its sharp aggressive styling. There's no mistaking some Camaro DNA in the design, making it a big departure from that original utilitarian Blazer and the rather dull S-10 Blazer follow-up.
Under the hood is either a 193-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder base engine or an optional 305-hp 3.6-liter V6. A nine-speed automatic is standard, as is an all-wheel-drive system that can decouple the rear axle to improve fuel economy. Initial specs indicate a 4,500-pound maximum tow rating. Helping with trailering duties is a hitch-view camera for easier hookup.
Notable trim levels include a sinister and sporty RS model with blacked-out exterior trim that contrasts with the loads of chrome on the more upmarket Premier trim. The 2019 Chevrolet Blazer's cargo capacity maxes out at 54.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. An optional track-based cargo management system and hands-free power liftgate also help with hauling. If you've loaded cargo up to the headliner, a rearview camera image can be projected in the mirror, as some Cadillacs do.
Specific feature availability was not available at the time of this writing, but standard equipment will most likely include an 8-inch touchscreen, a Wi-Fi hotspot and support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. You can also expect available add-ons such as ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, adaptive cruise control, a wireless charging pad and up to six USB ports.
We'll have more information and driving impressions as we close in on the 2019 Chevrolet Blazer's early 2019 on-sale date.