As a workhorse, this vehicle is very tough, but as a daily commuter, its a bit rough around the edges. It has very good cargo capacity (mine is 2-door, but the 4-door has even better), a big, powerful engine, and the 4WD works very well.

Acceleration, while not exactly neck-snapping, can be surprisingly swift- especially if you have the Vortec engine option, as I do. Even without the Vortec, though, it still has plenty of power for towing and driving off-road. This is a TRUE Sport/Utility, with the wheels, gear ratios, and ground clearance you need to actually drive off the pavement.

The interior is average, but all the critical controls and gauges are within easy reach or sight. With the Tahoe trim you'll get more convenience features, power accessories, and gadgets. I find the driver's seat gets uncomfortable on trips over an hour or so, but that might just be me.

In the 18 months I've had my Blazer, it has only once been totally undriveable due to a needed repair. It so happens that this repair was the front wheel nearly falling off due to an upper ball joint breaking. It happened at low speed, so there was no major other damage, but it's obviously a good idea to make sure the ball joints are well lubed.

I'm picky about my vehicle- if I notice something wrong, I like to get it fixed right away. Because of this, the Blazer is perhaps not the best vehicle for me. It seems I have mine into the shop about twice a month for minor, but annoying, repairs. By minor, I mean a clunking in a wheel or a hesitation in acceleration or an accessory that doesn't work right.

Also, luxury ocean liners, I think, get better gas mileage. I drive a little bit aggressively, so others might expect better than the 16 city/ 20 highway I get.

The ride is rough- even rougher than you might expect from a typical SUV. My Blazer does have the towing package, and that extra-stiff suspension might account for some of it.

The rear hatch/window SQUEAKS- Almost all the time, and very loudly. It sounds like a rabid mutant squirrel is back there. Spraying the area around the window seal and the latch with some liquid silicone makes the noise go away for a few days at a time.

Overall:
My love/hate relationship with this vehicle is hard to summarize. Living in West Michigan, I can tell you the 4WD has saved my life a few times. Anti-lock brakes are also standard (although some models have had a safety recall for these). I added remote start, keyless entry, and big all-terrain tires to round out a very nice cold-weather truck. During the warm months I do get envious of the people with nice, sleek, quiet, easy-to-drive sedans, but when I need to haul my drumset to a show through 6 inches of snow, I remember how nice having a reliable Blazer really is.

Amount Paid (US$): 10500
Condition: Used
Model Year: 1994
Model and Options: 2-Door, 4WD, Tahoe, 4.3L Vortec