Chevrolet Blazer

Changed little since 1995, the long-running Blazer lags behind more-modern sport utilities in virtually every respect. Emergency handling is poor, the ride is stiff and jiggly, fit and finish is subpar, and the rear seats are uncomfortable. The 190-hp V6 engine feels lively, but fuel economy is poor even by the paltry standards of the class. The Blazer received a "poor" rating in an insurance-industry offset crash test. The superficially sporty Xtreme model is a two-door, rear-drive version; the ZR2 is a 4WD version of the two-door. The TrailBlazer has demoted the Blazer to primarily rental-fleet status.