Is a Chevy Blazer fast?
The Blazer is not a sports car, but it can be surprisingly quick for a midsize SUV, especially with the available V6. The 2.0-liter turbo is brisk for daily driving, while the 3.6-liter V6 delivers noticeably quicker acceleration. Real-world speed depends heavily on engine choice, drivetrain, and load.
Powertrains that drive speed
The Blazer currently offers two main engines, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive. Here’s how those powertrains translate to speed across the lineup.
- 2.0L Turbo Inline-4: about 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Transmission: 9-speed automatic; Drivetrain: available all-wheel drive. 0–60 mph typically in the mid-to-high six-second range, depending on trim and equipment.
- 3.6L V6: about 308 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Transmission: 9-speed automatic; Drivetrain: available all-wheel drive. 0–60 mph typically in the low-to-mid six-second range, depending on configuration.
Both engines provide solid acceleration for their class, with the V6 offering the stronger straight-line speed and the turbo four delivering better efficiency and urban responsiveness.
Real-world performance and handling
Beyond official specs, the feel of speed in the Blazer depends on ride modes, traction, and load. The Blazer includes a Sport drive mode that sharpens throttle response and transmission tuning, and it offers all-wheel drive to improve traction on slick roads. While the vehicle is quick enough for confident highway merging and passing, it remains a versatile family SUV rather than a high-performance machine.
- Sport mode enhances response for quicker launches and brisker driving, particularly with the V6.
- Turbo models lean toward smoother, more efficient acceleration with adequate power for most situations.
- Overall handling is competent for its size, prioritizing comfort and practicality over corner-carving agility.
In daily driving, most buyers will find the Blazer sufficiently speedy for urban and highway use. It’s noticeably quicker than many non-turbo rivals, but it isn’t built to rival dedicated performance SUVs.
How it stacks up against rivals
In the crowded midsize SUV segment, the Blazer’s speed hinges on engine choice and configuration. The base turbo-four is competitive with similarly equipped rivals, while the V6-based setups usually outperform many peers in straight-line acceleration. However, if peak track-ready speed is the goal, there are other vehicles that prioritize sportier dynamics or sport-tuned trims.
- Engine choice is the main determinant of acceleration: the V6 is quicker than the turbo-four, which in turn is faster than many non-turbo options in the segment.
- Weight and ride focus mean the Blazer emphasizes comfort and practicality over cornering prowess or sprint-game agility.
For buyers prioritizing a capable blend of everyday practicality and competent, brisk acceleration, the Blazer offers a compelling option within its class.
Summary
The Chevrolet Blazer delivers credible speed for a midsize SUV. The 3.6L V6 provides the quickest acceleration, while the 2.0L turbo offers strong, efficient performance for daily driving. It’s fast enough to feel lively on highways and in city traffic, but it isn’t a sports car. Choose the engine and drivetrain based on whether you value outright speed (V6) or a balance of performance and efficiency (turbo four) for your everyday needs.
