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John Goreham Contributing Writer, GM-Trucks.com 6-22-2018 Chevrolet revealed its 2019 mid-sized Blazer crossover/SUV last night. The new five-passenger vehicle will be bigger than an Equinox, but smaller than a Traverse. What may be the Blazer’s most defining element is its looks. “The Blazer has attitude,” said John Cafaro, executive director, Global Chevrolet Design. “It looks commanding on the road, while fulfilling the promise of versatility at the heart of every Chevy crossover and SUV.” Drivetrains: The new Blazer will launch with two drivetrains Colorado fans will recognize. GM’s 2.5L I-4 will be the standard engine and the 3.6L V-6 engine will be optional, each mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. There was no mention by Chevy of the new four-cylinder gasoline turbo or any diesel options. “The Chevrolet Blazer is more than just good looks,” said Waqar Hashim, Blazer chief engineer. “Both the Ecotec® 2.5L four-cylinder engine and 3.6L V-6 engine are paired to Chevrolet’s nine-speed automatic transmission, providing drivers a great balance between performance and efficiency.” Specs: GM says that the new Blazer will tow up to 4,500 pounds. Cargo area, with the rear seats folded, will be 64.2 cubic feet. By comparison, a Honda CR-V has 76 cubic feet and a Mazda CX-5 60 cubic feet. GM didn’t offer any interior passenger volume numbers, but we question if the Blazer is really “mid-sized.” GM appears to be targeting the segment in which the Murano and Ford Edge reside with this new crossover. The Blazer is a unibody design and shares its platform with the GMC Acadia. Trims: GM plans to give the various trims distinct personalities. GM says there will be “additional bright chrome on the Premier trim and a more sinister-looking, blacked-out appearance for the Blazer RS.” Technology: GM listed the following technology highlights for the new Blazer: -Hitch Guidance — Available on models with the 3.6L engine, it aids in aligning the Blazer’s hitch to a trailer by showing the center line on the rear-vision camera. -Hitch View — This available feature complements Hitch Guidance by showing a top-down view, making it easier to hitch a trailer without a second person to assist. -Electronic-locking glove box — A Chevy first, it offers added storage security, and is roomy enough to fit a small handbag. The glove box is locked with the vehicle’s Valet Mode, which is accessible through the Settings menu. -Automatic heated steering wheel and automatic heated/ventilated front seats — These available features work with Remote Start and/or automatic climate control to automatically adjust temperature to help maintain comfort. -Comfort-open windows — Activated by the key fob, this feature allows all windows to roll down to help heat escape before occupants enter the vehicle. -Heated outboard rear seats are available on RS and standard on Premier. -Adaptive Cruise Control and Rear Camera Mirror are available on RS and Premier2. -Hands-free power liftgate with Bowtie logo projection is standard on RS and Premier. -Wireless charging and six USB ports are available. Manufacturing Location: The 2019 Chevrolet Blazer will be built in Mexico. Terry Dittes, UAW vice president and director to the UAW-GM department issued a press statement as the Chevrolet Blazer launch concluded, saying “This news that the iconic Blazer nameplate will be built in Mexico is disappointing to UAW families and communities across this country," Dittes said. "GM employs over 15,000 production workers in Mexico, pays the workers less than $3 per hour and exports over 80 percent of the vehicles to the U.S. to sell here.” Timing: The new Blazer will go on sale in early 2019. Pricing has not been announced.