[MACLBLAZ19]

fwd would have some slip as more power is going to two wheels instead of all four.
myself, never had that issue. definitely pulls harder in FWD.
AWD seems a little slower, but it's also putting power to all four wheels.
Even in SPORT mode, doesn't boost the power, just sharpens the tranny, steering and suspension up a little.
remember, Blazer was inspired by a sports car, doesn't make it a sports car. Sports utility yes, but performance is not in that category, lol. But being what it is, it's not bad. There are worse SUV's out there. If you want race track performance or times, bought the wrong SUV. Need to go for the over priced $100k plus European ones, porsche, lambo, etc.

 

[MACLBLAZ19]

Not slower according to Motor Trend..."Our Blazer AWD RS tester accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds" https://bit.ly/381BIxX

i don't necessarily believe that stuff, good info for reviews etc, but is a tester the same vehicle we bought at the dealer, or did the dealer hype it up a little, for the purpose of testing??? sometimes they do. but like i said, Blazer isn't a bad SUV. and it does have potential if you got the money to spend when the aftermarket starts coming out with upgrades.
after all, same motor is in some of the caddie's turbo charged. be interesting to see what people will do. my only concern is the drivetrain. I'm a Driveline Specialist by trade and been under the vehicle. The driveshaft design is worrisome, I wouldn't count on it taking too much abuse.