Chevrolet axed the original Blazer way back in 1999. The nameplate is now returning on one of the American automaker's new crossovers, due in 2019.
The Chevrolet Blazer was a boxy, basic, no-frills SUV that ran the roads from 1982 until 2005. Chevy axed the original Blazer from its Middle East lineup in 1999, but not before the K5 generation model earned a cult following. Realising the potential of the moniker, GM is now reviving the name on an all-new crossover. The proposed midsize SUV should slot between the Traverse and Equinox pretty smoothly.
However, the Blazer name is not going to be joined by the design it is known for. Instead of a retro-inspired boxy SUV, the 2019 Chevy Blazer is a thoroughly modern crossover that will add to the burgeoning lineup of Chevy crossovers. It does not have a single square edge, and is instead curvy, aggressive, and aerodynamic. Gone are the days when people who bought SUVs actually ventured far off the beaten path, utilising their truck's full potential. The target buyers of today are not prone to the same tendencies. Hence the need for sleek styling. The crossover's roof slants towards the back in a wannabe coupe styling, entirely distancing the new Blazer from the old.
The differences do not end here. The 2019 Chevrolet Blazer does not employ a body-on-frame chassis. Instead, there is a modern monocoque frame under its skin. There have also been opinions that say that the crossover's bodywork resembles that of the Mazda CX-3 or Jeep Cherokee.
The Chevy Blazer will be offered with a choice of two petrol engines- a 2.5-liter, 193hp inline-four and a 3.6-liter V6 good for 305 horses. A nine-speed automatic gearbox is standard across models. The crossover seats five people and has 1,818 liters of luggage space. Entry-level variants will have front-wheel drive, but Chevrolet will fit top-spec ones with twin-clutch all-wheel-drive, making it a little potent in keeping with its role.
Chevrolet will launch the Blazer in 2019. There is no word on when it will make its way to the Middle East.
