What is the best year Chevy Blazer to buy?
For most shoppers, the 2023 or 2024 Blazer offers the best overall value, thanks to a mid-cycle refresh that added modern safety tech and updated interior features. If you’re working with a tighter budget, a well-maintained 2020–2022 model can still deliver strong performance and usability at a lower price.
This guide examines what makes a particular model year stand out, how to weigh your options, and practical steps to secure a good deal in today’s market. It focuses on the modern Blazer lineup (introduced in 2019) and what changes across years mean for reliability, features, and price.
What makes a year stand out for the Blazer
The “best” year depends on three main factors: technology and safety features, ownership costs (including depreciation and insurance), and reliability records. In GM’s modern Blazer, the years around a mid-cycle refresh typically add more standard features and improved infotainment, while earlier years can offer lower purchase prices but fewer driver-assistance tools. Buyers should balance upfront cost against long-term value.
Year-by-year snapshot for the modern Blazer
Below is a practical look at model-year blocks to consider, with guidance on what each period tends to bring in terms of features, pricing, and value.
- 2023–2024: Best all-around balance of updated technology, safety features, and interior refinements thanks to a mid-cycle refresh. These years typically deliver more standard driver-assistance tech, improved infotainment, and a fresher look, which helps with resale value—even if the upfront price is higher.
- 2021–2022: Strong value in the used market. This block benefited from the ongoing model-year updates and generally provides a solid feature set at a lower price than the most current models. Reliability is comparable to other recent model years, making it a practical middle-ground choice.
- 2020: A good balance of price and capability, with many buyers finding favorable depreciation and access to features without paying the top-dollar for the newest models. Some early adopters noted evolving software and feature refinements during this period, but overall reliability remains solid.
- 2019: The first year of the current generation, which means the lowest purchase price but also the oldest tech and higher potential for wear in used examples. If you’re shopping this year, budget for possible updates or higher maintenance needs and be thorough with recalls and service history.
In practice, the 2023–2024 models sit at the top for most buyers who want modern safety tech and a fresh interior, while 2020–2022 models deliver good value without the premium price. 2019 models are best reserved for buyers prioritizing price first and willing to accept older technology.
Buying considerations to maximize value
To land the right Blazer at a fair price, consider these practical factors and checks during the buying process.
- Budget and price range: Determine how much you’re willing to spend up front and how much you can tolerate in maintenance over the ownership period.
- Powertrain choice: The Blazer offers different engines across years; weigh fuel economy against performance based on your typical driving needs.
- Trims and features: Higher trims add advanced safety tech and comfort features. Decide which features matter most for your use case and whether you’re getting them in your target year.
- Warranty and recalls: Check remaining factory warranty coverage and any outstanding recalls; verify recall status via GM’s portal or a dealership visit.
- Vehicle history and maintenance: Look for clean maintenance records, verified service at authorized centers, and evidence of timely component replacements (brakes, tires, fluids).
- Test driving and inspection: Test drive for ride quality, noise, and transmission behavior; have a trusted mechanic inspect used units for potential issues.
These checks help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure you buy a Blazer that meets your needs without surprise repair costs down the line.
Summary
For buyers in 2025, the consensus leans toward the 2023 or 2024 Blazer as the best overall choice due to refreshing updates that improve safety tech, infotainment, and interior quality. If price is the main constraint, a well-maintained 2020–2022 model provides strong value, while 2019 can be considered only if cost is the overriding priority and you’re prepared for more limited tech. Regardless of year, prioritize a thorough history, a careful test drive, and a clear understanding of the exact features included in the trim you’re considering.
