What is the RS package on a Chevy Blazer?
The RS package on a Chevrolet Blazer is a sport-oriented trim that emphasizes styling and interior accents more than a separate performance upgrade. It is designed to give the Blazer a more aggressive look and driver-focused feel while sharing the same engine options as other trims. Availability and exact features can vary by model year and market.
RS: A sport-oriented trim, not a performance upgrade
The RS designation on the Blazer signals a distinctive, sport-inspired package rather than a unique, track-ready performance enhancement. While it often includes striking exterior styling and interior touches, the underlying powertrain typically remains similar to other Blazer trims. Buyers should verify the exact specifications for the model year they’re considering, as features can shift over time.
What follows are the typical exterior and interior elements you’ll find with RS, noting that specifics can differ by year. Always check the model-year spec sheet for precise inclusions.
RS Exterior styling elements
The visual identity of the Blazer RS centers on dark, bold styling cues and RS branding. Common exterior elements include:
- Blacked-out exterior accents, including grille surround, window trim, and RS badging
- Sporty wheels with a dark or premium finish (often around 20 inches)
- Dual exhaust outlets and a sportier rear fascia
- LED headlights and taillights with a sharper, more aggressive look
- Available roof color options or blacked-out roof styling on certain colors
These exterior choices help the Blazer carry a more aggressive, performance-oriented look without requiring a separate performance package.
RS Interior and technology features
Inside, the RS aims to deliver a sportier ambiance through seating, trim, and technology. Feature availability varies by model year and region.
- RS-branded seating with red contrast stitching and sport-inspired upholstery
- Flat-bottom steering wheel with RS branding
- Leather or leatherette seating with contrasting accents
- Dedicated instrument cluster graphics and ambient lighting options
- Infotainment system with modern connectivity (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) and available premium audio
These interior touches create a cockpit feel that aligns with the RS exterior, often complemented by the latest tech the Blazer lineup offers.
Engine and drivetrain options (model-year dependent)
The RS package does not inherently modify power output; it mirrors the Blazer’s available powertrains. Typical options you might see paired with RS include:
- 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 with about 230 horsepower
- 3.6-liter V6 with about 308 horsepower
- Drivetrain choices include front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), often with a 9-speed automatic transmission
Because engine options and drivetrain configurations evolve by year, always confirm the exact powertrain and drivetrain for the specific model you’re considering.
How to identify a Blazer with the RS package
If you’re shopping, there are several quick cues that commonly indicate the RS trim. Look for these indicators when assessing a Blazer:
- RS badge on the grille and rear liftgate
- 20-inch wheels with a dark or special finish
- Distinctive front fascia and dark exterior trim accents
- Interior touches such as RS badges, red contrast stitching, and sport-style seating
For certainty, check the vehicle’s window sticker (Monroney) or request the dealer’s build sheet to confirm RS status and the exact features included for that model year.
What buyers should know
The RS package is primarily about styling and interior ambiance rather than a dedicated performance upgrade. If performance is your goal, compare the available engine options and drivetrains across trims, and consider how the RS’s styling and equipment align with your priorities.
Summary
The Chevy Blazer RS is a sport-oriented trim that delivers a more aggressive look and sport-influenced interior details while offering the same core powertrain options as other trims. Availability and exact contents vary by year and market, so always verify the model-year specifications and window sticker to know precisely what is included.
What's better, LT or RS?
Neither is definitively better; the "better" trim depends on your priorities: the RS offers a sportier look and performance with more premium features, while the LT provides a more balanced, practical option with a lower starting price. The RS trim is for those who want a bolder design and a more engaging drive, and it typically costs more. The LT is ideal for buyers seeking a more budget-friendly choice that still includes plenty of convenience and comfort features.
Choose RS if you prioritize:
- Sporty appearance: The RS trim usually includes a more aggressive exterior with features like blacked-out elements and larger wheels.
- Performance: It often comes with a sport-tuned suspension, giving it a more engaging driving experience.
- Premium features: The RS adds more technology and premium amenities, such as wireless charging, adaptive cruise control, and a hands-free liftgate on some models.
Choose LT if you prioritize:
- Budget: The LT trim generally has a lower starting price, making it a more accessible option.
- Balance: It strikes a balance between performance and features at a more competitive price point.
- Practicality: The LT is a practical choice that still offers a good range of modern conveniences and comfort features.
What does RS mean on a Chevy Blazer?
On a Chevy Blazer, RS stands for "Rally Sport," a trim level that signifies a sportier design and more premium features compared to lower trims. The RS trim is characterized by a blacked-out exterior, a unique grille, and sport-oriented styling cues like red accent stitching on the seats and red RS badging. It also comes with enhanced interior and exterior features, such as larger wheels, Bose premium audio, and a heated steering wheel.
Sporty design and features
- Exterior: Features a blacked-out Chevy bowtie emblem, a unique honeycomb grille, and specific exterior accents.
- Wheels: Comes with larger, dark-painted wheels, such as 20-inch or 21-inch options.
- Interior: Includes premium touches like a Bose 8-speaker audio system, a heated steering wheel, ambient interior lighting, and leather seats with red accent stitching.
Performance and technology
- Engine: Often includes more powerful engine options, such as the standard 3.6L V6 engine.
- Infotainment: Includes upgraded features like the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Premium system with connected navigation and wireless charging.
- Driver aids: Often comes with advanced features like driver-seat memory settings, a 120-volt power outlet, and an upgraded driver information center.
What does the RS package include on the Blazer?
The Chevy Blazer RS package is a sporty trim level that includes a standard 3.6L V6 engine, unique black exterior accents like a signature grille and bowtie emblems, and an upgraded interior with features like ambient LED lighting and a Bose audio system. It also includes performance-oriented features like a hands-free gesture liftgate and 20-inch Technical Gray aluminum wheels.
Performance and exterior
- Engine: Standard 3.6L V6 engine with 308 horsepower.
- Wheels: 20-inch Technical Gray aluminum wheels.
- Exterior accents: High-gloss black RS signature grille, black bowtie emblems, and an available black two-tone roof.
- Liftgate: Hands-free gesture liftgate.
- Towing: Can tow up to 4,500 pounds with the available tow package.
Interior and technology
- Audio: Bose premium eight-speaker audio system with a subwoofer.
- Driver display: 8-inch driver information center.
- Lighting: Ambient LED interior lighting.
- Infotainment: Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Premium system with a 10.2-inch color touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected navigation.
- Convenience: Wireless charging, 120V power outlet, and heated steering wheel.
- Seating: Perforated leather-appointed seats with red or blue interior stitching and accents are often featured.
What is the difference between the Chevy Blazer and the Chevy Blazer RS?
The Blazer 3LT comes equipped with a standard turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine, delivering 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the Blazer RS boasts a 3.6L V6 that generates 308 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, with the option to equip this engine on the 3LT model.
