What are three of the engines that came out in the K5 Blazer?
The Chevrolet K5 Blazer, a pioneering full-size SUV, was offered with a range of V8 and diesel engines across its lengthy production run from the late 1960s to the mid-1990s. Here are three engines that were available in the K5 Blazer, illustrating the spectrum from everyday usability to heavy-duty performance.
Engine options over the Blazer's lifespan
Below are three engines that customers could choose from in various model years.
- 350 cubic inch (5.7 L) gasoline V8 — The workhorse V8 that powered most early Blazers and remained a staple across generations, balancing power and efficiency for daily driving and light towing.
- 454 cubic inch (7.4 L) gasoline V8 — A big-block option offering substantial torque for heavy towing and off-road grunt, available in higher-trim or heavy-duty configurations during the Blazer's run.
- 6.2-liter diesel V8 — GM's diesel option in many full-size Chevrolets, providing long-tank economy and strong low-end torque for rugged use, offered in some K5 Blazer models in the 1980s.
These engine choices show how the K5 Blazer could be tuned for everyday practicality or serious utility depending on the buyer's needs.
350 cu in V8 (5.7 L) gasoline
The 350 cu in V8 was the standard-bearer for many K5 Blazer models. It delivered reliable power, smooth performance, and strong low-end torque that suited both city driving and trail work. Over the Blazer's long run, the 350 was refined through generations, with variations in carburetion and emissions controls as technology evolved.
What to know about this engine
Displacement: 350 cu in (5.7 L). Configuration: V8. Typical horsepower ranged roughly from the mid-150s to the mid-180s in earlier years, climbing with fuel-injection and tuning in later models.
454 cu in V8 (7.4 L) big-block
The 454 big-block was selected by buyers looking for maximum torque and towing capability. It powered many high-end or heavy-duty configurations and provided significant off-road and trail performance due to its muscular output. Availability varied by year and trim, but it remained a hallmark option where weight and power mattered.
What to know about this engine
Displacement: 454 cu in (7.4 L). Configuration: V8. It delivered much higher torque and horsepower than the small-blocks of its era, often at the cost of fuel economy.
6.2L diesel V8
GM's 6.2L V8 diesel was offered in the Blazer lineup during the 1980s, appealing to buyers who valued fuel economy and long-range performance for work or expedition use. While not as quick as the gasoline V8s, the diesel delivered strong torque and durability, with fuel economy benefits that were prized in some markets.
What to know about this engine
Displacement: 6.2 L. Configuration: V8 diesel. Noted for high torque at low RPM and improved range on long trips, though output varied by emissions equipment and tuning.
Summary
The K5 Blazer offered a broad engine lineup designed to cover urban use, heavy-duty towing, and off-road adventures. The 350 cu in V8 was the everyday workhorse, the 454 cu in V8 delivered top-tier torque for serious tasks, and the 6.2L diesel provided efficient long-haul capability. Together, they illustrate how Chevrolet matched power, durability, and fuel economy across a popular SUV's lifespan.
What engine came in the K5 Blazer?
block V8
The standard engine remained the 350 cu in (5.7 L) small-block V8 with throttle-body fuel injection.
What's the difference between a 2LT and 3LT Blazer?
The Chevy Blazer 3LT is an upgraded version of the 2LT, adding standard features like perforated leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and enhanced driver-assist technologies such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. While both trims can have the same 2.0L turbo engine, the 3LT also offers the more powerful 3.6L V6 engine option, which provides higher horsepower and towing capacity.
This video explains the differences between various Chevy Blazer trims, including the 2LT and 3LT: 56sBuild Your OwnYouTube · Jan 25, 2024
Key differences between the 2LT and 3LT
| Feature | 2LT | 3LT |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Standard 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder | Standard 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder; optional 3.6L V6 |
| Driver-Assist | Standard Chevy Safety Assist (Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist) | Standard Driver Confidence Package (Rear Park Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert) |
| Seating | Premium cloth seats, heated front seats | Perforated leather-appointed seats, heated front seats |
| Liftgate | Manual (2LT Convenience Package is optional) | Standard programmable power liftgate |
| Interior/Convenience | Dual-zone automatic climate control | Wrapped steering wheel, auto-dimming rearview mirror |
| Exterior | 18-inch aluminum wheels | Black roof-mounted side rails |
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This video provides a more in-depth look at the features of the 3LT trim: 1mKB CarsYouTube · Jan 12, 2019
Which trim is right for you?
- Choose the 2LT if: You want a capable and well-equipped Blazer without the higher price point and want to add premium features à la carte.
- Choose the 3LT if: You prefer the convenience of standard premium features like perforated leather seats and a power liftgate, want additional safety technologies, and may want the option of a more powerful V6 engine for towing or performance.
Did the K5 Blazer have a 454 engine?
1972 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Vortec 454 4-Speed. Riding High in this 1972 High Impact Copper Metallic K5 Blazer. Built for performance with a newer Vortec 454 Big Block engine with Aluminum heads and a rare 4-speed manual transmission to control the power.
Which is better, RS or Premier?
The Blazer Premier has the same MSRP as the Blazer RS. However, where the RS is about performance, the Premier is about comfort and convenience. The Blazer Premier comes with the 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine, with the 3.6-liter V6 engine available as an option.
