25 MPG combined is reasonable fuel economy for the 2021 Chevrolet Blazer with the front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration and the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. While not class-leading, it is an acceptable compromise for buyers who prioritize style, interior space, and a more engaging driving experience over outright efficiency. This Blazer targets those who want the look of a sporty SUV and a comfortable ride, so the fuel consumption is a manageable aspect of ownership.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2021 Chevrolet Blazer FWD with the 2.0L engine break down to 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city rating reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the turbocharger’s responsiveness helps with quick bursts of acceleration. However, frequent idling and lower average speeds take a toll. The 29 MPG highway figure is more achievable on longer trips at consistent speeds, showcasing the benefit of the nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission helps keep the engine in its most efficient range at cruising speeds, contributing to the respectable highway fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Chevrolet Blazer FWD 2.0L is $1,750. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Individual fuel costs can vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. This estimate provides a useful benchmark for comparing the Blazer’s running costs with other vehicles in its class and helps prospective buyers understand the financial implications of ownership.

Real-world expectations

EPA ratings provide a standardized comparison point, but real-world fuel economy can differ. If your driving is predominantly in the city with frequent short trips, you can expect to see numbers slightly below the EPA estimates. Conversely, highway-heavy commutes with minimal traffic could yield results closer to or even slightly above the 29 MPG rating. Driving style also plays a significant role. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will negatively impact fuel consumption, while a smoother, more deliberate approach will help maximize efficiency. The type of terrain, weather conditions, and even tire pressure can also influence your actual MPG.

How it compares

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer’s fuel economy puts it in the middle of the pack compared to its competitors. The Honda Passport, known for its spaciousness and reliability, achieves around 20 MPG city and 25 MPG highway with its V6 engine. The fuel-efficient Toyota RAV4, in its standard gasoline form, offers significantly better fuel economy, achieving around 28 MPG city and 35 MPG highway. The Hyundai Santa Fe with its base 2.5L engine gets an EPA rated 25 MPG combined. This comparison is critical for Blazer buyers who might be cross-shopping based on factors like size, features, and price. The Blazer’s appealing styling and more athletic driving dynamics are often the deciding factors, even if it means sacrificing a few MPGs compared to its more economical rivals. You can review BLAZER MPG across all years here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Blazer’s Driver Mode Control system. Select the “Tour” mode for everyday driving to optimize the vehicle’s settings for fuel efficiency. This mode adjusts throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize economy over performance. Experimenting with this setting can yield noticeable improvements in your average MPG, especially during longer commutes.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Check the tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which directly impacts fuel consumption. Even a few PSI below the recommended level can reduce your MPG, costing you money over time.

Avoid excessive idling, particularly during the colder months. Modern engines warm up quickly while driving, so there’s no need to let the Blazer idle for extended periods before setting off. If you anticipate a longer wait, turn off the engine to save fuel, especially if you spend a lot of time in traffic or waiting in parking lots.

Carry only necessary items in the vehicle. Excess weight reduces fuel economy, so remove any unnecessary cargo from the trunk or cargo area. This could include sports equipment, tools, or other items that aren’t needed on a daily basis. Reducing weight, even by a small amount, can contribute to improved MPG.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which is more efficient than constantly accelerating and decelerating. This feature is particularly useful on long stretches of highway where there are minimal traffic variations. Using cruise control can lead to a noticeable improvement in your highway MPG. For more information, check out all Chevrolet fuel economy data.