Chevrolet

Chevrolet introduced the first-generation K5 Blazer in 1969 as its entry into the growing recreational off-road market, taking on the International Scout, Ford Bronco, and Jeep CJ-5. Based on the half-ton K10 pickup, the Blazer featured a shortened wheelbase to balance off-road agility with better on-road performance. The K5 Blazer was essentially a full-size SUV built from Chevrolet’s C/K truck line. Early models combined a half-cab pickup with a removable rear top, creating a three-door station wagon. Later generations gained permanent rear bodywork. Originally offered only as a 4x4, rear-wheel drive soon became available. Marketed from 1969 to 1994, the Blazer quickly outpaced rivals and even spawned a GMC twin, the Jimmy (1970–1991). Its success also pushed other automakers to respond: Chrysler launched the Dodge Ramcharger in 1974, Jeep followed with the Cherokee, and Ford rolled out a larger second-gen Bronco in 1978.