23 MPG combined won’t win any awards, but for the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer FWD with the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, it’s a sensible, if not particularly exciting, compromise. This Blazer isn’t aimed at the off-road enthusiast or the performance SUV buyer; it’s designed for those who prioritize style and space over raw power and low fuel costs. Think empty nesters, young professionals, or small families who like the Blazer’s aggressive styling cues, but don’t need the V6 or its associated fuel penalties. They appreciate the Blazer’s comfortable ride and modern features, and for them, 23 MPG is acceptable.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer FWD 2.5L are 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the 2.5L engine and nine-speed automatic transmission work to optimize fuel consumption. The highway number is slightly better because the transmission can cruise in higher gears, reducing engine RPM. Even on the highway, achieving that 27 MPG will require a light foot, as the Blazer’s aerodynamics aren’t its strong suit. Expect to see a dip in highway MPG if you’re frequently traveling at higher speeds or dealing with strong headwinds. Some drivers find the Blazer’s on-demand stop/start system annoying because it is often slow to restart the engine. If you find this happening to you, it is likely a sign that you should replace you battery.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer FWD 2.5L is $1,900. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you buy, and where you live. If you drive significantly more than 15,000 miles per year, or if fuel prices are high in your area, you can expect to pay considerably more. If you drive fewer miles or live in an area with lower fuel prices, you’ll likely spend less than $1,900 per year. To see all Chevrolet fuel economy data, visit FuelEconomyHub.

Real-world expectations

Officially, the EPA numbers are the target, but real-world fuel economy often deviates. Drivers of the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer FWD 2.5L tend to report figures that are close to the official estimates, but there is some variation. Expect somewhere north of 20 MPG on average in mixed driving. Aggressive driving, heavy loads, and frequent short trips will push the number lower. Gentle acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and diligent maintenance will help you achieve numbers closer to the EPA estimates.

How it compares

In the crowded mid-size SUV segment, the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer FWD 2.5L’s fuel economy positions it squarely in the middle of the pack. The Honda Passport, for example, gets an EPA-estimated 20 MPG city and 25 MPG highway in its FWD configuration, making it less fuel-efficient. The Nissan Murano, with 20 MPG city and 28 MPG highway in FWD guise, is close to the gas mileage of the Blazer in this review. The Toyota Venza AWD hybrid is rated at 40 MPG combined. However, these vehicles serve slightly different roles; the Venza is dedicated to maximum fuel efficiency. The Blazer is a style-conscious choice for those not completely prioritizing low fuel costs, but still looking for reasonable MPG. See the BLAZER MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2020 Chevrolet Blazer FWD 2.5L, like most modern vehicles, benefits from consistent tire pressure. Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check those tires regularly, especially as temperatures change.

Avoid excessive idling, especially during cold starts. Modern engines warm up quickly, and idling for more than a minute or two wastes fuel. If you’re waiting for someone or stopped for an extended period, turn off the engine. The Blazer’s automatic start/stop feature is designed to help with this in traffic, but manually turning off the engine can be beneficial in other situations.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Maintaining a consistent speed helps to optimize fuel economy. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, as these actions can significantly reduce your MPG. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace.

Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal fuel economy. Keep your engine properly tuned, change the air filter regularly, and use the recommended grade of motor oil. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and consumes less fuel.