What year did the Chevy Blazer change body style?

The Chevrolet Blazer, a popular SUV model, has undergone several body style changes over the years. The Blazer's design has evolved to meet the changing demands of the automotive market and consumer preferences. In this article, we'll explore the key years when the Blazer's body style underwent significant transformations.

The Original Blazer (1969-1994)

The Chevrolet Blazer was first introduced in 1969 as a full-size, two-door SUV. This original Blazer model featured a removable hardtop and was based on the Chevrolet C/K pickup truck platform. The Blazer remained in this body style until 1994, when it was redesigned for the 1995 model year. The original Blazer's body style was in production for over 25 years, making it a long-standing and iconic SUV model.

The Compact Blazer (1995-2005)

In 1995, the Chevrolet Blazer underwent a significant redesign, transitioning to a more compact, four-door body style. This new Blazer model was built on a unibody platform, rather than the previous body-on-frame construction. The compact Blazer was produced from 1995 to 2005, offering a more modern and streamlined SUV option for consumers.

The Blazer's Hiatus (2006-2018)

After the 2005 model year, Chevrolet discontinued the Blazer nameplate. The SUV market had shifted, and Chevrolet focused on other models, such as the Tahoe and Suburban, to meet consumer demand. The Blazer name was absent from Chevrolet's lineup for over a decade, from 2006 to 2018.

The Revived Blazer (2019-Present)

In 2019, Chevrolet revived the Blazer nameplate, introducing an all-new, midsize SUV model. The 2019 Blazer featured a sleek, modern design that departed from the previous body styles. This new Blazer was built on a unibody platform and offered a range of engine options, including turbocharged and V6 choices. The revived Blazer has been in production since 2019 and continues to be a part of Chevrolet's SUV lineup.

The Chevrolet Blazer has a rich history, with its body style evolving to meet the changing needs of the automotive market. From the original full-size, two-door SUV to the compact four-door model and the current midsize SUV, the Blazer has undergone significant transformations over the decades, cementing its place as a versatile and iconic Chevrolet nameplate.

What year was the Chevy Blazer redesigned?

1995
The 1995 Chevy Blazer received a radical makeover for the 1995 model year. Its lines were smoothed significantly and the S-10 designation was dropped since the full-size Blazer was given its new designation of the Tahoe.

What are the different styles of Chevy Blazers?

The Chevy Blazer is available in several trims, including the 2LT, 3LT, RS, and Premier. There is also the all-electric Blazer EV model. Each trim offers different features and styling, ranging from the more standard 2LT to the luxury-focused Premier and sporty RS, with the Blazer EV offering an electric powertrain.
 
Gasoline models

• 2LT: The starting point for many modern Blazers, offering standard features like a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and safety systems such as Chevy Safety Assist. 
• 3LT: Builds on the 2LT with more premium features, including leather upholstery and advanced safety technology like Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert. 
• RS: A performance-oriented trim with a sportier design, including a unique front grille, black accents, and a standard 3.6L V6 engine. It also includes many of the luxury features found in the Premier trim. 
• Premier: The top-tier luxury model, it combines performance and premium features, adding to the 3LT's offerings with features like wireless device charging, an upgraded infotainment system, and ambient interior lighting. 

Electric model

• Blazer EV: An all-electric SUV that offers an available EPA-estimated range of up to 324 miles on the RWD RS model, along with performance and style. 

What is the best year of the Chevy Blazer?

The best Chevrolet Blazer years depend on your priorities, with the 1973-1979 second-generation K5 Blazer often cited for classic style and performance, while recent models like the 2022 are praised for modern features, and the 2021 is a good value for modern safety tech. For off-road enthusiasts, the 1996-2005 ZR2 models are a highly capable option, notes CarGurus.ca. 
You can watch this video to learn about the history and evolution of the Chevrolet Blazer: 58sGraphic Cars EvolutionYouTube · Sep 15, 2022
For classic off-road enthusiasts

• 1973-1979 (K5 Blazer): Many consider this the "best" era for the original full-size Blazer, appreciating its style and performance upgrades from the first generation, notes CarParts.com. 
• 1989-1991 (S-10 Blazer): These later K5 models are noted for mechanical improvements, including throttle-body fuel injection on the 350 engine, making them a desirable blend of classic looks and improved reliability, says Reddit users and this YouTube video. 

For modern off-road capability

• 1996-2005 (S-10 Blazer ZR2): This is the best choice for a factory-built off-road machine. The ZR2 package includes a wider track, increased suspension height, skid plates, and Bilstein shocks, says this YouTube video. However, it was only available in a two-door configuration. 

For modern features and value

• 2021: A great balance of modern features and value. This year made the Chevy Safety Assist package standard on many trims, and the vehicle received a 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA, notes www.online.cars. 
• 2022: According to CarGurus, this model year had high owner satisfaction, despite not having the best reliability ratings. It also had a very low number of recalls and consumer complaints, says CarGurus. 

What to watch out for

• Fuel pump issues: Some model years are known for fuel pump problems. 
• Shift-to-park error: The 2019 model year had a specific "Shift to Park" error message that could trigger other electrical issues. 
• Rust: Older K5 Blazers are prone to rust, especially in certain areas, so inspect carefully. 

This video provides a detailed review of the 2025 Chevy Blazer: 59sCars SimplifiedYouTube · Nov 15, 2025

What year Blazer to stay away from?

Years to avoid for the Chevy Blazer include 1994, 2000, and 2001 due to widespread engine and fuel system problems. Additionally, the 2021, 2022, and 2023 models should be approached with caution because of various electrical, engine, and electronic issues. 
Classic Blazer (1983–2005)

• 1994: Considered by some to be the worst year due to numerous engine problems, with high complaint and recall numbers. 
• 2000: Logged a high number of complaints and recalls, with issues including fuel gauge problems, transmission failures, and powertrain issues. 
• 2001: Experienced engine and ignition problems caused by a faulty distributor. 
• 2002: Prone to coolant leaks and intake manifold gasket failures, which could lead to long-term engine damage if unaddressed. 

Modern Blazer (2019–present) 

• 2021: Has been flagged by sources like Consumer Reports as an SUV to avoid, though specific issues are less detailed in the provided snippets. 
• 2022: Common problems reported by owners include electrical system failures (dashboard/display issues, power loss), and issues with the service brakes. 
• 2023: Recalls and owner-reported problems include engine issues (cylinder head, head gasket) and problems with the in-car electronics, like the display freezing. 
• 2024: Is predicted by some sources to be less reliable than the average new car.