Do Chevy Blazers come in 4WD?
In brief, the current Chevy Blazer does not offer a traditional 4WD system with a low-range transfer case. It is available with front-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive as an option. Historically, older Blazer models did offer true 4WD, but the modern lineup centers on FWD and AWD configurations.
Current drivetrain options for the Blazer
Here is a quick overview of how today’s Blazer lineup is typically configured in terms of traction and power delivery.
- Standard front-wheel drive (FWD) on base trims, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available as an option on most models.
- No traditional 4WD with a low-range transfer case is offered in the modern Blazer lineup.
- AWD in the Blazer is designed for all-weather and on-road confidence, not for heavy off-road rock-crawling. It uses an electronic or adaptive system rather than a mechanical two-speed transfer case.
- Engine choices available with AWD include the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder and the 3.6L V6, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
- GM markets this configuration as AWD (not 4WD), emphasizing on-road capability with added grip under slippery conditions.
In sum, today’s Blazer offers FWD or AWD, but not a traditional 4WD system with a low-range gear. Those seeking a genuine 4WD capability in a Chevy SUV would look to older Blazer generations or other models designed with dedicated off-road 4x4 systems.
A look back at earlier Blazer generations and their 4WD options
Chevrolet’s Blazer lineage has a history of true four-wheel-drive configurations, especially in its earlier, truck-based years. The information below highlights the general pattern of 4WD availability across past generations.
- K5 Blazer (early, full-size years) offered true 4WD with a transfer case, widely used for off-road work and rugged terrain.
- S-10 Blazer (compact era) provided 4x4 options for buyers needing better traction in challenging conditions.
- Later TrailBlazer generations and contemporaries carried 4WD variants or traditional all-terrain systems in certain trims.
These older Blazer models were built with a more traditional 4x4 drivetrain architecture, including low-range gearing in many configurations. In contrast, the current Blazer emphasizes on-road performance with optional AWD rather than a rugged, low-range 4WD system.
What this means for buyers
If you’re evaluating a Chevy Blazer today and you need maximum off-road capability with a formal 4WD setup, you may want to consider alternatives in Chevy’s lineup or look at older Blazer models (pre-2020) or other off-road-focused vehicles. For most buyers who want improved traction in rain, light snow, or everyday slick roads, the Blazer’s AWD option provides a practical balance of grip and efficiency.
To verify drivetrain details for a specific model year or trim, check the official Chevrolet configuration pages or ask a dealership to confirm whether a particular Blazer includes AWD and what drive modes are available. This helps ensure you choose the setup that matches your climate and driving needs.
Summary
The modern Chevrolet Blazer is offered with standard FWD and optional AWD, but it does not include a traditional four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case. Historically, earlier Blazer generations did offer true 4WD, but current buyers should look for AWD if they need enhanced traction. For genuine off-road 4x4 capability, consider older Blazer models or alternate Chevy vehicles designed specifically for off-road use.
