What year did the GMC Blazer come out?

The Blazer first appeared in 1969, marking GMC’s entry into the mid-size SUV segment with a two-door design that mirrored its Chevrolet counterpart. This article traces that origin and how the name has evolved into today’s modern model.

The question of when the GMC Blazer came out has two clear answers: its original introduction in 1969, and its later revival as a contemporary two-row crossover in 2019. Here, we explain the lineage and what each milestone represents for the Blazer badge.

Origins and early years

The original GMC Blazer arrived in 1969 as GM’s answer to the growing demand for rugged, truck-based sport utility vehicles. It was developed to offer off-road capability and practicality in a family-friendly package, aligning GM’s truck platforms with consumer-friendly SUVs.

Key milestones in the Blazer’s early history include the following:

• 1969: Introduction of the GMC Blazer as a counterpart to the Chevrolet Blazer, establishing the two-door, body-on-frame SUV lineage.


• 1970s–1990s: The Blazer line continued through multiple generations, evolving in design and trim levels while maintaining its rugged, truck-based roots.


• End of the 20th century: The Blazer remained a staple in GM’s SUV lineup, adapting to changing tastes and technology while keeping the core two-door and four-door configurations in various markets.

In this era, the Blazer was synonymous with GM’s classic SUV formula—capable, durable, and able to handle both weekend trail runs and daily commuting.

The modern revival

In 2019, GMC reintroduced the Blazer name as a modern midsize crossover designed for today’s road and urban environments. Unlike its body-on-frame ancestors, the current Blazer sits on a car-based platform, offering a refined ride, contemporary technology, and a more streamlined silhouette while preserving the Blazer badge and its legacy of versatility.

What this revival means is twofold: it preserves the Blazer name in the GM SUV family and adapts the model to the preferences of modern buyers who want a two-row arrangement with space for passengers and cargo, plus the option of bold styling and premium features.

Current context and what to expect

Today’s GMC Blazer represents the badge’s transition from a rugged, off-road‑focused SUV to a stylish, everyday two-row crossover. It remains a key model in GMC’s lineup, balancing utility, comfort, and technology while continuing to offer premium trims and a distinctive presence on the road.

In practical terms, the Blazer’s debut year is 1969 for the original line, and 2019 for the modern revival that defines the current generation. Each era reflects broader shifts in SUV design and consumer priorities, from rugged capability to versatile everyday usability.

Bottom line

Original introduction: 1969. Modern revival: 2019.

Summary: The GMC Blazer began in 1969 as GM’s answer to the growing demand for rugged mid-size SUVs. After decades of evolution as a traditional body-on-frame SUV, GMC relaunched the Blazer in 2019 as a contemporary two-row crossover, blending the badge’s heritage with today’s automotive trends.

What year did the new Chevy Blazer come out?

2019
The vehicle went into production in December 2018 and sales began in January 2019 as a 2019 model.

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. 

What is the most common problem on a Chevy Blazer?

Common problems: Some of the most common problems with the 2022 Chevy Blazer include electrical system issues, brake problems, and structural errors.