Vehicle Overview
Despite the debut of the new midsize TrailBlazer, Chevrolet expects to keep the smaller, prior-generation Blazer in its lineup until at least 2003. The TrailBlazer name was previously used on step-up Blazers. But GMC dropped its Jimmy the automakers equivalent of Chevys Blazer when it introduced the midsize 2002 Envoy.
The 2002 Blazers come in LS and Xtreme trims. The sporty low-rider Xtreme two-door model features a lowered suspension, 16-inch tires on alloy wheels and an aggressive exterior with flared fenders, side skirts, deep-tinted windows, front and rear fascias, and a body-color grille. An optional Striping Package for the two-door Xtreme features aggressive wide hood and tailgate stripes. Body-color moldings, grille and bumpers decorate the four-door LS.
Exterior
In four-door form, the Blazer rides a 107-inch wheelbase and measures 183 inches long overall about 6 inches longer in both dimensions than the two-door model. Each body style stands about 65 inches high and 67.8 inches wide and are available with either a swing-up liftgate or a tailgate that drops down. The rear window opens separately and flips up on all body styles. The Blazers spare tire stows beneath the rear of the vehicle. Flat, five-spoke aluminum wheels are newly standard on the four-door 4WD LS model.
Interior
Either five or six passengers fit into the Blazer, depending on the model. Four-door models have split front and rear bench seats for a six-passenger capacity. Front buckets and a two-place split, folding rear bench are standard on all two-door Blazers, including the Xtreme version. Four-door Blazers have a roomier rear seat and more cargo space than the two-door. A floor-mounted automatic-transmission gearshift lever is standard on two-door models.
Under the Hood
A 190-horsepower, 4.3-liter V-6 is the sole engine in the Blazer. A standard five-speed-manual and optional four-speed-automatic transmission are available on two-door models, while the automatic is standard on the four-door Blazer. Two four-wheel-drive systems are available: Insta-Trac on the 4×4 LS is engaged by a dashboard switch, while Autotrac which is standard on other 4×4 Blazers automatically engages when additional traction is needed. Antilock brakes are standard.
Driving Impressions
Evenif they couldnt quite reach above the SUV pack, Blazers and their now-departed GMC Jimmy cousins have delivered an appealing blend of comfort, performance and handling. Owners can expect a reasonably quiet ride, more-than-adequate acceleration, and handling that at least matches most of the Blazers competitors. It is trucklike, but that doesnt particularly interfere with the Blazers practical virtues and easygoing personality.
