1995-2005 Chevrolet Blazer: Road Test

Updated: 12/17/09

1995 Chevrolet Blazer 4-door wagon
2005 Chevrolet Blazer
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1995-2005 Chevrolet Blazer 

  • Price Range:  $600 - $6,700
CG Rating

43

out of 100

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Our road test for the 1995-2005 Chevrolet Blazer includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1995-2005 Chevrolet Blazer and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1995-2005 Chevrolet Blazer is right for you.

Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation

Acceleration is above average for a sport utility, livelier than a V6 Explorer from a standstill, with stronger passing power. Unfortunately, the automatic transmission pauses a moment before downshifting. Naturally, too, the Blazer's V6 cannot hope to match an Explorer's V8 when hitting the gas pedal hard. Fuel economy wins no prizes. A long-term test of a 4-door 4WD Blazer averaged 15.2 mpg. A variety of suspension choices have been offered, tailoring the ride from off-road firm to suburban-street soft. Of all the suspension packages available, we prefer the "premium ride" version, which absorbs most bumps easily and produces a comfortable, stable highway ride. In fact, that Blazer rides more like a car than a truck. Blazers actually steer and handle much like a midsize sedan. Body lean is moderate in tight corners. Steering feels more precise than on the old S10 Blazer. Stopping power is adequate, though our test vehicle suffered a mushy brake-pedal feel, as well as substantial nosedive in quick stops. Things improved with the 4-wheel disc brakes on the '98 model. Passenger space is about the same as before. That translates to good room for four adults in both body styles. In a pinch, five or even six can fit into the bigger 4-door. However, the rear seat has a short, hard backrest--bolt upright and uncomfortable. Cargo room is ample, improved in the 4-door by mounting the spare tire beneath the rear end. Visibility is fine in the 4-door, but obstructed by the 3-door's sloped roof pillars as well as the spare tire. The modern-looking dashboard has clear gauges and easy-to-use controls. Power window and lock buttons are large and helpfully backlit. The climate system uses rotary switches for selecting mode and temperature. Some engine roar remains in hard acceleration, but road and wind noise now are well-muffled, ranking as moderate.
Value for the Money
Blazers are competitive with the Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee in most areas, and beat them on price when new. Good buys also can be found in the secondhand market.
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Expert Ratings Summary

Category Chevrolet Blazer 4WD 4-door Rating
Performance 5
Fuel Economy 4
Ride Quality 4
Steering/Handling/Braking 3
Quietness 3
Controls/Materials 6
Interior Room 5
Room/Comfort (rear) 3
Cargo Capacity 7
Value within Class 3
Total Score: 43

Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.

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